fromthefarm

opportunity

2012-02-13T09:36:00.000-08:00

Why not?

What do you have to lose?

If you enjoy stamping on your projects as much as I do.......and you would like the opportunity to work with one of the most incredible design teams out in the industry......

TAKE THE LEAP

and apply for the

myStampBOX Design Team!!!

The details are all HERE.

Here's a peek at some of my latest mSB layouts.

Click here for my full mSB Gallery.

mSB stamp sets: Striped Stems, Rough Copy, Repeat After Me

mSB stamp sets: Rough Copy, Rustic Outlines, Road Trip, Repeat After Me

mSB stamp sets: Enjoy your latte!, Repeat After Me

mSB stamp sets: Enjoy your latte!, Symbols, Striped Stems

More layouts to come very soon!!!
enjoy {from the farm},
j.

little details

2012-02-10T08:17:00.000-08:00

more mSB layouts to come.

busy creating {from the farm},

{smile}

2012-02-09T11:28:00.000-08:00

My Dad dropped off my Opa's electric typewriter the other day. I had been looking for one for a while, and didn't necessarily realize that my Dad had been "storing" my Opa's for a while under his office desk. This particular typewriter is pretty sentimental to me. Long before I realized my passion for scrapbooking, I would walk to my Opa & Oma's after school (in middle & high school) and type out family history and geneology notes for my Opa. I remember these afternoons and smile. I remember the snacks that my Oma would prepare for us....all cooped up in the basement......working tiredlessly (haha) on preparing a history book. These are such fond memories of my Opa & I, and I will always cherish them.
So.......it's pretty special to me to have THAT same typewriter in my possession. I know my kids think this is weird (the typewriter-thing).....the fact that it's a bit "old school"....but, hey, I'm FROM the old school. I'm in my 30's!!!

So, you may see a bit of the typewriter being used in the next few layouts I create. Rad, eh?!? (haha).

Check back soon for some mSB layout sneak peeks and the latest DT Call being offered.

{from the farm},
j.

sand in my shorts

2012-01-26T08:00:00.000-08:00

Have you ever tried to get those "beach babe lying on the sand" photos? Well.....Ron tried capturing those shots in Costa Rica of Heather & I one day. You can only imagine what happened when the tide would roll in and out while we were on our tummies.

We finally nailed it and got a good one.

Then..............we had to empty our shorts.

We had such an enjoyable time in Costa Rica. So many great memories and time spent with Matt & Heather. I'm sure you will see many more photos in the layouts that I'll be creating.

trying to keep my tan {from the farm},
j.

The boat that "Jack" built

2012-01-20T21:34:00.000-08:00

We spent the day on the water today on a 42 foot sailboat called the Surfari. Jack, long with his right-hand-man Bismark (a native to Costa Rica) brought us out on his boat. We had the whole thing to ourselves. We snorkelled at this beautiful beach, had a wonderful afternoon snack that Jack made, looked for dolphins and whales (but, unfortunately, didn't see any) and then we watched the sunset from on the boat (hence seeing the sunset from a different location ........ again). Too cool. It was such a fantastic day on the water, but we are all feeling a bit wind blown and sunkisses a little more than we already were.

Only 2 days left here in Costa Rica. We plan to do a little more shopping in Tamarindo, go over to the beach at Conchal again & ride the waves A LOT more.

Tonight, pretty sure, we will sleep sooooooooo well.

{from the heat & sun},
j.

to market, to market

2012-01-19T21:13:00.000-08:00

We took a small boat across the estuary today into the town of Tamarindo. We were immediately bombarded by street vendors that were all trying to sell jewellery, pottery or clay whistles. This man stopped us outside the back machine (what a coincident) and started showing us his pottery. He continued to unpack almost every piece from his heavy backpack. We ended up purchases a few pieces from him (I don't know if it was because of guilt, or if it was because they were all so unique or beautiful). We each ended up with a sugar bowl with lid, plus Heather bought a candle holder and I bought a beautiful bowl. I purchased a few more things that I will have to leave a secret (my kids will be reading this).

Many other adventures today.
We did manage to get down to the beach again to ride the waves on the boogie boards. I don't think we'll get sick of this. The challenge always is to find the "mother load wave" and ride it all the way to the shore. We found a few of those today.

We watched the sunset tonight from the Big Rock in Playa Grande and ate supper tonight in town, at Kiki's. Then we ordered take-out cheesecake from another restaurant and played some cards tonight.

Tomorrow we head off shore on a private sailboat to snorkel, fish & bask in the sunshine. We hooked up with a great man from Potrero who owns the boat and is very willing to take us out on it. We are looking forward to the dolphins we will most likely see -- and a large potential for whales.

sun-kissed {from the beach},
j.

cheater, cheater

2012-01-19T06:32:00.000-08:00

Apparently, while drinking our morning cup of coffee, I learned that Heather actually took this photo yesterday of Ron & I (not Matt). Love this one. I guess Matt & Ron are still in competition to see whose photo will make the blog first. To tell you the truth, I don't think they really care........but Heather & I are enjoying being in a few photos.

We're off to catch a boat to Tamarindo this morning to go to the market and see a few shops. We'll probably spend the afternoon at the beach or by the pool in our front yard. Looks like another gorgeous sunny day here. It's been about 32 degrees everyday and sunny.

relaxing {from Playa Grande},
j.

one photo....and a little good-night

2012-01-18T20:44:00.000-08:00

Before we left our house in Playa Potrero this morning, we took a little walk to the beach one last time. We met two gentlemen who were fishing from the shore. They were casting their net and fishing line into the water. We watched them for a while until there was excitement as they pulled their line in.

All four of us went running over to see what they caught. As we neared them, they were laughing at the little puffer fish that was on their line. They continued to try to get it off their line by jabbing a knife, a pair of scissors & a jack-knife down its throat. Needless to say, the little guy didn't make it, but it did look really cool with all its spikes & buggy eyes. I have a great photo of him, but I'll have to show you another time, as the internet connection here to upload photos is quite slow and frustrating. I don't remember this from last time we were here.
This afternoon we moved over to our new house in Playa Grande. It's exactly how I remembered it....it's so beautiful here. We walked down to the beach to show Matt & Heather and did a little boogie boarding too. Ludo & Natalie (the property managers) lent us their boards for the week, so we don't have to go rent some. So nice of them. We also walked down the road to a restaurant tonight and Ron had the most delicious swordfish. And I had the most delicious Strawberry Colada drink.
I'll say "good-night" to you wanting desperately to show you this last photo of Ron & I coming out of the water at Playa Grande this evening, just as the sun was setting. (Photo submitted by Matt -- prizes for him later). Alas.....the photo will not load tonight, so I will sleep, hopefully gain some more patience for this computer (I don't enjoy stress on my vacations) and maybe....just maybe the photos will upload faster tomorrow morningm, drinking my coffee and watching the pool boy do some yard work. What a tough life we have, eh?
By the way.......we are not forgetting about you back at home. We heard that's it has been bitter cold there. Maybe school will be cancelled and you can all stay at home too. A little vaca for you would be nice as well.

sleepy {from the beach},
j.

i think we've reached our limit

2012-01-17T19:09:00.000-08:00

Pretty sure we are completely relaxed -- we've reached our limit of laziness.

Today we didn't go very far. A little drive to discover Playa Dante beach. Nice beach to find some awesome pieces of Mother of Pearl. Heather & I had fun digging by the rocky parts of the beach to find the best pieces. So happy Heather is also a "picker" (that's for you, Lisa)!!!! We love taking walks to find cool shells on the sand. We both think the guys have bets going to see how far we actually get before we both look down, reach over & pick up another shell.

Thought I'd show you this cool shot of the house we are staying in. There are 3 different condos all under one big roof. We are in the middle one (3 levels) and there is nobody else in the other 2 units. Sweeeeeet!!! We've had the pool and everything all to ourselves. We actually check out of it tomorrow at noon and will travel the 30 minutes or so to Playa Grande to our next home.

This is one of our favourite places to eat in Portrero -- Sol y Mar. We ate there last night for supper and then we went back today for burgers and fries & drinks. It doesn't look like much when you drive by, but the food is amazing and it's quite busy every evening.

As we were sitting eating lunch, we spotted some lizards up in the trees. Heather took this fantastic photo of this big guy.

And then later in the afternoon, walking to the beach, we spotted this little critter up in the trees. It's a squirrel-like animal (quite a bit larger though), striped in white, black & orange. This guy was hanging in the trees eating the little nuts or berries or whatever was up there.

Before supper tonight, we took our last walk on Playa Potrero beach and snapped a few sentimental photos of us as couples. There was a good one of Ron & I too, but I'm having difficulty loading it on the blog tonight.
Tonight we cooked a delicious supper at home -- the most tender steaks we've ever eaten; beef shishkabobs, fresh potatoes & carrots, fried onions & ice cream for dessert. We purchased a big slab of fresh beef from the local butcher shop and cut it up at home. The woman from the fruit stand came with us as an interpretor for us. The meat was so reasonably priced that we will probably take the 30 minute drive later this week to purchase some fresh chicken from the shop. We put our table out on the balcony and enjoyed each other's company and the beautiful breeze in the night air.
We're relaxing now and will enjoy some more card games later on before bed.
Tomorrow we're off to Playa Grande to continue our Costa Rican adventure. But before we leave Playa Potrero, we'll visit the fruit stand to load up for the next few days. We can't chance being out of fruit for too long.

Relaxed & Rested {from the shore},
j.

we scored with the fruit stand

2012-01-16T19:44:00.000-08:00

Here's a photo of Playa Penca Beach that we have been having fun on.

Today, Heather & I walked down the beach a bit to look at some of the more rocky areas and take photos of the tide pools. There are so many cool things that we discovered in them and around them. We took some great photos of so many things -- too many to show right now.

This tide pool was neat because it had a little "bridge" part that connected two of them. Little fish were swimming in these.

We scored big time this morning, discovering the fruit stand just down the road. We bought so much (we're preferred customers now, I'm sure).......that the man that works there gave us our cilantro and hot peppers for FREE. We ended up with two huge bags of fruit and veggies for about $16 USD. We thought we won the lottery. Probably going back tomorrow. They get everything fresh on Mondays, Wednesdays & Fridays. I think the days inbetween will taste just fine as well. Mmmmmmmm, fresh fruit!!!!

We immediately went home and mixed up some fruity drinks. Ron played the part of "Tom Cruise" and Matt, Heather & I played our part as well.

This is the fruit stand.

Kay............so "Cliff Diver" (the name of our car, thanks to our daughter, Daria) had a little accident!!!!!

Actually..........there's a vehicle graveyard right down the lane from us and I thought it would be funny to take a photo of Ron beside what could happen to the vehicle if he continues to drive the way he is. I'm just kidding -- he's driving great (& wild at times) and he's finding new thrills, like driving on the beach to get to Conchal and almost getting run over by BIG buses (that was on a little adventure that him & Matt took this morning).

Later this afternoon, we drove back to one of our favourite beaches -- Conchal. It is covered with tiny crushed shells -- it's amazing. We watched an amazing sunset (again) and walked through some little stands that were selling stuff. In the trees above us were some monkeys....about 6 of them....even a baby one, I think. It was hard to photograph them; they were so high in the trees and always moving. But I did manage to get a few good ones.

Tonight we ate at a local restaurant -- "Sol y Mar". We ate the most delicious seafood, tenderloin & chicken. Then we topped off the meal with ice cream and Flan de Coco (a light coconut jello cake). Everything was so good that we all think a burger and fries for lunch tomorrow will suit us all just fine........maybe topped off with more ice cream.

After our late night swim tonight we are relaxing in our jammies with a glass of watermelon smoothie (sorry, Daria)!!!!! I'll make them at home for you too. Good night to all and chat with you tomorrow.

{from the.........beach},
j.

Day 1 // beaches, drives & a sunset

2012-01-15T19:03:00.000-08:00

Well....we made it all the way to Playa Potrero, Costa Rica. We arrived at the newly constructed Airport Terminal (yeah......its been open a whoppin' 3 days) and were whisked away to the Alamo Car Rental place. It was dark already, and we were tired, so Ron got an "upgrade" in the car department (of course) and we were off to our house. Matt navigated in the front seat, while Heather & I hung on to the door handles and prayed (just kidding). After countless corners, stray dogs & lots of dust, we reached our house. The property manger was waiting for us and let us in, showed us around and answered all our questions.
Soon after she left.......it was bedtime. Long day.

The next morning it was so much easier to see exactly what our place looks like. It's beautiful, sitting high on a hill, surrounded by trees and other vegetation.
I won't show you all the photos, but just some of my faves.
Here's the view of the pool area from the upper (2nd level) balcony.

This is the view of the ocean from the same balcony. It's a beautiful view.

Today we walked down to Playa Penca Beach....a bit of a walk down the road, but not bad. We didn't bring much with us because we didn't know how long we would be there. It's a gray-sand beach with not many shells. It's not huge, but there were not many people there.

We ended up playing in the waves for about an hour and a half. It was fun to try to "ride the waves" and time it just right to "catch a wave". Sometimes our timing was right.........many times we ate water & sand. Lots of laughs, screams & sand in our suits.

This is the vehicle that we are driving for the week. Ron said we should think of a name for it..............so if you have any ideas, just email us with them.

We took a drive this afternoon and took in breath-taking views like this. The roads are incredibly winding and steep. Don't tell anyone........but I'm glad I'm sitting in the backseat this week. At one point I actually Ron was intentionally driving off this cliff on the side of the road....but I couldn't see the dirt road he was actually turning on to. I couldn't believe he was actually taking "the road less travelled". Heather has a photo of it on her camera that I'll maybe show you another time. Unbelieveable!!! Who let this guy drive anyway?

We finished our drive at Playa Flamingo watching the sunset on the beach. We ate at a little restaurant right in town.......Mauhi Mauhi, shrimp skewers, guacamole & chips, etc. Soooooo good!!

We've had a long & busy day. We are already feeling relaxed and ........... warmer than you are right now in Manitoba. Sorry.

Check back tomorrow to see what we're up to.
{from the farm},
j.

my new backyard

2012-01-13T07:09:00.000-08:00

Taking off early tomorrow morning for Liberia, Costa Rica. We are going with another couple (who have never been to CR) and who are two of our closest friends. We are pretty excited to be heading back to this wonderful destination!!! We are already chatting about a family vacation there next winter with our kids........and we aren't even on the plane yet. Ha.

(The area we are going to is circled on the map)

This is what we will be waking up to and going to bed to. The beaches in CR are breathtaking!!!.......and both of the houses we are staying at are right by the beach. Breathe. One in particular (Playa Grande) is the most beautiful beach I have ever seen in the world (not that I've been to millions though). I can't wait to sink my freshly painted toes into this sand.

These little (& big) critters will be my new neighbors for the next 10 days.

Leatherback Turtles:

The beaches in Playa Grande are "off limits" after 6:00 p.m. b/c the huge Leatherback Turtles come on shore and lay their eggs. We are hoping to go on a guided excursion this time in the middle of the night to see this. No flashes on the camera (what setting do I use on my camera, Al?????)

These dudes are everywhere. I'm not a huge reptile fan (that's an understatement!!!!!), but these guys don't seem to bother me as much. The ones that do bother me are the little geckos that can crawl under the door and end up in your shower with you. They aren't really scary, they just freak you out a little when they scurry across the tile. I must say.......it's a little disturbing when you are standing there naked, sharing your space with a gecko.

And the howler monkeys are EVERYWHERE in the trees. Last time we were in CR, they were right outside our house (on the road to the beach) and the kids loved watching them. Sometimes we could even see some babies. We even went on an estuary excursion and a little walk into the (snake infested!!!!) jungle (gulp)........and a howler monkey peed on one of the ladies in our group. It was actually so funny -- but we are cruel, cruel family (we saved our laughs for back at the house).

So.......check back everyday to see some more adventures of our travels. I will try to upload photos & update every evening.

Love you all.

{from the farm},
j.

must haves

2012-01-09T07:37:00.000-08:00

Kids are back to school this morning and I'm still in my fuschia pj's. Love it!!! Been doing a little "homework" myself this morning; catching up on some blogs and finishing some deadlines that are sneaking up on me.

Kay......you have GOT to see this.

Nikki Sivils, Scrapbooker has been busy creating her latest paper lines and they are definitely going to be your next purchases!!! I can't believe what this incredibly talented woman comes up with when she's designing. She's amazing!!!

Here's a little sneak peek at one of my new faves:

The collection kit cover

(with a look at all the papers)

there are so many ways that you could use these little telephones.

kay.......hello........this one rocks!!! love florals. How did she know??

ledger paper is definitely one of my faves for a background paper.

always love the houndstooth!!!

... and check out these adoreable library cards. So many possibilities!!!

Nikki's got other new lines just waiting to be shared. I'll debut them in the next little while. They are also announcing their latest Design Team in the next week or so. Can't wait to see what talent they have lined up for this season!!!

Check back here next week when I start blogging from Costa Rica.......heading there this coming weekend. Can't wait to start another adventure.

{from the farm},
j.

eleven things

2012-01-02T10:28:00.000-08:00

My boy turns eleven today.

11 things we love about him:

1. definitely his quirky personality.
2. his maturity
3. his ability to speak to adults & complete strangers; they are always so impressed.
4. his sarcasm -- he always "gets it".

5. his genuine smile
6. we are so proud of the fact that Carter was able to be challenged in school and be moved up to grade 5 after the new year this past year.
7. his athletic ability -- basketball, soccer, baseball, hockey, track, etc.
8. his determination -- in everything he does.

9. his imagination
10. his creativity & problem solving skills
11. the way he makes us feel important as a family -- I don't know another kid who will do this to the extent that Carter does.

We love you so much, Carter.

Have a great day!!!

{from the farm},
j.

me

2011-12-19T14:05:00.000-08:00

just click on the link below:

http://cropandcruise.blogspot.com/

Too funny when you have to visit a website these days to see what your life is like. :)

{from the farm},

need a last minute gift???

2011-12-18T19:31:00.000-08:00

Check out the following link to experience

The Ultimate Christmas Gift

for your

favourite Scrapper or Photographer:

http://www.cropandcruise.blogspot.com/

I'll see you on the boat!!!

enjoying the season {from the farm},

layout Show & Tell

2011-12-15T14:11:00.000-08:00

aloha......look who's cruisin' now

2011-12-07T19:47:00.000-08:00

guess what?
i'm one of the luckiest people in the whole wide world.
no...seriously....i am.

next November......in almost a year from now.......i will be instructing (again) at one of the most fabulous scrappin' events of the year.

I have been asked (again) to come back to Crop and Cruise as a Featured Instructor -- this time to HAWAII!!!!!!!

So.....if you have always wanted to see Hawaii. And you have always wanted to experience a cruise. And you have always wanted to meet new and exciting and talented scrappers (just like yourself). And you love taking new & exciting classes. And you need a few tips in photography (in Hawaii!!!!). And you have never met ME and would like to (hahahaha)........then

.........come visit the website and register TODAY. You will never regret it.

Here's the TEAM for this year:

Allison, myself & Christy

This is how much fun we are going to have. Love this girl.

So.........stay tuned for more fabulous details, classes, itinerary & more.

The fun as just begun.

aloha {from the farm},

scrappy animals

2011-11-23T21:36:00.000-08:00

Here's a few more layouts that feature some of the furry members of our family. Always love scrappin' these ones.

wiser: this layout features our oldest "furry" member. Although we don't exactly know Sonny's age (we got her from friends years ago and never bothered to ask her age at the time), we know that she is nearing her time with us. She's lost a few of her 9 lives over the years....(hence the use of the number pattern paper)...accidents happen on the farm. She is a wise, fiesty, old cat and we love her anyway. We will miss her when she's gone.

on the back deck: This next layout features our furry, little new friends who arrived this past summer. The kids adore their new kitties and it is no bother to get them to feed them everyday. Now, they are growing up and becoming more of a pain on the deck, as they try to get into the house on cold, winter days. Nonetheless, we love them and let them in now and then (when Ron is away). Shhhhhhh!!!

in no time: This layout just had to be created and documented to show the patience that I have to have (at times) when it comes to our pets. This "mess" that you can see from the photo happens daily.........several times some times. Kayna (our 165 lb St. Dane & our 3 kitties and 1 cat) can totally destroy the look of our patio on most days. I clean up the cushions, and in minutes, the kitties have batted them down or the kids have created "kittie-forts" with them again. Ahhhhh.........life on the farm......with pets.

More layouts are still coming...............

AND.......................some BIG news!!!!!!!

{from the farm},
j.

new 5 for Christmas

2011-11-22T21:40:00.000-08:00

Posting 5 new layouts to show you. A few weeks ago, I went away for a long weekend with some girlfriends to scrap........and I mean completely and only scrap, eat & sleep.........oh, yeah, and laugh A LOT!!!!
These are just some of the 23 layouts I created that weekend.

This first one (above) is of a Christmas Eve photo we took last year. I`ve used mSB stamps to create some of the title, combined with letter stickers........really old stickers from my stash actually. Love using old stuff!!!

This layout is totally scrap-lifted from Wilna Furstenberg (have to give the talented woman credit here). Totally LUV her style....the colours she uses, the details she creates & the overall look of everything on her layouts. I know she`s mostly digital, but I love re-creating her looks with product.

simple, clean & oh, so Asha.

These two layouts are created using the Gingerbread Lane products from Nikki Sivils, Scrapbooker. LOVE all the goodies you get in her product lines...............sooooooo much fun to work with.

Hope you enjoy. There`s more to come soon.

from the farm,
j.

twenty-three & thirty-seven

2011-11-20T22:13:00.000-08:00

Sharing a few sneak peeks of those 23 "things" I have on my desk. The actuals are coming soon.

And today, Monday, November 21st, I turn a big 3-7. It's a good day. I'm bringing cupcakes to my grade one math class to celebrate. My hubby is out of the country for the week, so I'll celebrate with my kids tonight. Here's to another GREAT year!

{from the farm},

guessing game

2011-11-14T20:46:00.000-08:00

I have something new on my desk right now.
There are 23 of them actually.

Anyone have a guess as to what they might be?

(answer coming soon).

winking {from the farm},
j.

mSB blog & photo happy

2011-10-26T18:47:00.000-07:00

Head on over to the myStampBOX Blog today to see the latest Halloween layout I've created. {Proof that I have been busy creating......not just ignoring you all}.

This evening I have been "playing" with my new birthday present (my birthday isn't until mid November, but it came early this year). yeah for me. Isn't it pretty?!!!!

I uploaded a few old photos from my external hard-drive (like about 28,000 photos) and found some cute ones from yyyeeeeaaaaarrrrrsssss ago. Love looking at old photos of when the kids were little.

Here's a few of my faves:

Brings back some GREAT memories.
I told them all this evening that "they were so cute.....what happened?"
(They just love my sarcasm).

One more exciting thing:
NikkiSivilsScrapbookers is teaming up with Scrapbook Steals and giving scrapbookers a "steal of a deal" this week. If you are not familiar with this website, click here to check them out. They are a "deal of the day" site that gets product into the hands of scrappers when they can't get it at their LSS or if they don't even have a LSS. Nikki's brilliant in teaming up with them -- soon EVERYONE will be eyeing up NSS products and drooling over her newest lines.
So, go check them out and see if you can snag a "deal" for some fabulous NSS products.

BIG News to share.........soon. Have to wait though. Patience.
smiles (from the farm),
j.

waiting for me

2011-10-18T21:35:00.000-07:00

Okay....I know.......I've been having too much fun without you and not doing my job to blog every week. For that, I apologize. I know some of you have been faithful followers and will have been quite annoyed by my "lack of.........."!!!

So, I will be honest. It's midnight, I'm tired, I have to work tomorrow and I still wanted to share some pics of the FABULOUS weekend I had waaaaayyyyyy back in Calgary. So, I will share more VERY SOON (promise), but I wanted to leave you wondering about these funny moments.

Stay tuned for more.

{from the farm},

leaving on a jet plane

2011-09-20T20:30:00.000-07:00

On Thursday I leave for Calgary. It's picture day for my kids, it's the Book Fair at both their schools, it's harvest time on the farm. But I'm flying to Calgary. (sigh). I hate flying, but I love teaching, so I have to take the great with the bad.

It's actually not that I hate flying altogether...............I just hate flying anywhere without the ones I love. Got it???

I can't wait to see everyone that I've met over the many years I've been in this business. It's been a few years now since I've seen most of them and it's exciting. It's like a huge school reunion.......but I'm the only one that's really out of the loop (most of them work together for the magazine). Click here to see the event I'll be at.

This gig is definitely different than my other ones. Usually I'm a "closer"; a "teacher"; a "social butterfly" hired to keep everyone happy and busy and scrapping and laughing -- yeah, that's me. I'm usually specifically hired for that last job. This time..............I'm represently a fabulous company who manufactures fabulous trimmers (etc.). I'll be demoing their latest baby (The 12" Titanium Bonded TrimAir Trimmer).............wowzers.........and creating some pretty cool stuff with some pretty cool chicks!!! Always love that part......the face-to-face connection with people / new faces. So, I'm brushing up on my Westcott fact sheets and checking all the lists twice. No kits this time. No tools this time. Just ME. Smalltown ME in a big city. Love it.

Check back next week for photos (hopefully someone takes some). I'm trying to go with just a carry-on this time.......yikes!!!

I'll let you know how that goes. (hahaha)

{from the farm},

self-timer ME

2011-09-15T19:50:00.000-07:00

Just linking to the fabulous Lizzy Kartchner's blog today. She's having a little "self-timer" photo challenge thang over there and I thought it would be fun. I have about a hundred of them already on my computer, and I took a few more the other day. Take the challenge and link your best ones here as well. Can't wait to see them. Then head over to Lizzy's blog to see them all.

And here's some layouts (from years past) to get those creative juices flowing this weekend. I think it's time you put those housework clothes away and spend a whole day crafting. (Hey.....why don't you take that self-timer photo to prove it, too). hahaha.

Have a great weekend.
later alligator {from the farm},
j.

a little birdie told me

2011-09-14T21:30:00.000-07:00

a super cool chick told me to play with my photos
on this super cool free website.
i've played.
i love.
still playing.
thanks, friend.

{from the farm},
j.

3 cheers for ...

2011-09-12T11:18:00.000-07:00

About a year and a half ago, I submitted my application to be part of a Canadian stamping company, myStampBOX. Fortunately, my application was accepted and I became a Design Team member for them. I have been invited for the past 3 terms (6 month terms) to continue to be part of the DT and continue to create layouts, cards & projects for their blog & gallery. Well..........today mSB introduced the newest Design Team members for this coming term. I am sooooooooooo excited to share with you that.....

I have been invited back!!!!!!!!!!

I am incredibly pumped to part of this team and honoured to be asked to continue the journey with them. I have met incredible woman & talented scrappers while being on the team and I know that this term will be equally SUPER.

WELCOME to all the newest DT members.

Now...Let's get stampin'.

Check out these links and share the good news:

mSB blog

Facebook

{from the farm},

farming 101 // big read // cool photos

2011-09-09T21:06:00.000-07:00

This is what my view has been for the past 16 years during the harvest season here on the farm.

My name is Jill Hildebrand and I drive a combine.

(Hello, Jill).

We usually don't start combining until the dew is off the grass in the morning (by the way......for you followers/readers that don't know; that's a combine driving towards me and I am driving the exact same thing and taking a photo at the same time). Seriously people........some people have told me at certain scrapbook conventions that they have never seen a combine, let alone been IN one.

So.........here we are combining wheat. In this particular field, the wheat has been swathed so that it's in long rows in the field. We pick up the swaths with a pick up header and the grain is held in the combine's hopper until we can unload the grain into the semi. These machines are incredibly big & noisy. They are worth A LOT of money (no pressure, eh), but are essential for life on a grain farm. I spend an average of 10 hours/day in my combine. There's a radio.....but I tend to sit in silence (sigh). I love it this way.

In this photo (below), we are actually straight-cutting wheat. It hasn't been swathed so it's still standing in the field. We put a different header on the combine (called, ironically, a "straight-cut header) and we cut the wheat down at the same time that we pick it up. Waaaaaaaaay more productive, if you ask me.

The semi in the photo belongs to us as well (we actually have 2 of them). The combine is about to unload the wheat into the semi that is in it's hopper...........however, we usually just unload "on the go". This means that the semi drives along-side the combine while the wheat is unloaded. A long auger carries the grain from the combine's hopper into the semi. A little bit more scarey concept (because they are driving so close together), but again, way more productive.

It actually gets better...........my combine has something called "auto-steer" which means that it works with a GPS system and satellites. I can push a button and the combine will steer on its own. I still have to watch countless other things (the reel, the height of the header, the height of the knives, my speed, the flow of grain going into the header, etc.), but if I don't have to steer to keep a perfectly straight line...........wow, that's great!!!! I actually joke that I could scrap a page in the combine because I only need one hand most of the time.

And.............like last year (when it was miserably wet & crappy), a combine can sink into a serious gumbo spot and get stuck. It's actually a little scarey when this huge machine that you are driving suddenly starts tipping into the unknown. I will never forget last harvest season. This happened in (almost) every field we had. How do we get the combine out? We hook a huge tractor onto the back hitch and pull it straight out; backwards. Then we drive around the hole and keep on combining.....and hope we don't drive into another (unseen) gumbo spot again. Yeah, really!!!

And to top it all off, we get to enjoy beautiful harvest sunsets like this almost every evening. Spectacular.

Although we are extremely busy right now, I love this time of year. I love working closely with our family; my brother-in-law, my sister-in-law, my father-in-law and my husband. I love being involved and knowing what is going on. I love the sights and the smells.

Something I don't necessarily enjoy -- not being able to see my kids off the bus after school. And not always getting to tuck them in at night. Some nights we say prayers over the CB radio and say our "good-nights". When I get in after midnight, I check on them and give them their bedtime kisses. I love the responsibility & independence that our kids have learned with living on the farm. It's different than living in the city. I only did that for the 5 years when I attended University............but I know now, the farm-life is DEFINITELY for me.

smiles {from the farm},

random // busy bee

2011-09-08T22:15:00.000-07:00

I've been busy in this room lately. Can't you tell? It's a mess!!!

Needing to scrap the last of my "last winter" photos. This layout showcases a photo of me & my two sisters having fun on the toboggan slopes at a neighbour's. Just some random fun products sitting on my desk and in my muffin tins. I used watercolour paper and some watered down acrylic paints to create the background paper. I then stitched it onto a patterned 12x12 paper.

Here are 3 layouts I've created recently for Nikki Sivils, Scrapbooker.

My Little Monster - product line

School is Cool - product line

Working on a few other projects right now...............my desk may stay looking like this for a while. Some deadlines to meet (right in the middle of harvest time to boot). I have all my September ones done, photos taken & sent in by email. Now for the October ones. Who knows.....we may still be harvesting then. Gotta get 'em done early. Hate having things hanging around.

Hey................and check this post out. BIG news.................BIG BIG news. I'm flying at the end of Sept.

Yeah!!!!!!!!

tired {from the farm},

off to school

2011-09-07T21:46:00.000-07:00

Daria - Grade 8
my super-musically-talented-confident-and-intelligent-new-red-headed girl.

Asha - Grade 2
my determined-adorable-soft-hearted-stubborn girl.

Carter - Grade 6
my highly-motivated-super-smart-determined-sporty-&-opinionated son.

Get ready, teachers......here they come. {sigh}
insert * They had a great first day today. I bet tomorrow will be even better.

enjoying the quiet of the house - giggle giggle {from the farm},
j.

a few links

2011-09-06T13:30:00.000-07:00

1. Go check out the mSB Blog today. It's my turn ... and I went a little crazy with my stamp sets and decorated a little lunch for Asha (in true school spirit). There's a few stamping ideas for the odd layout or card you're creating next.

2. Go head over to the CK Blog today. A very good friend, Katrina (the DT coordinator for Nikki Sivils, Scrapbooker) is their Guest Designer today!!!!!!!! WooHoo!!!!!! She has some fantastic ideas on how to use school-themed products in a "non-school" way. Leave her a little comment on the blog to win some extraordinary Nikki Sivils, Scrapbooker products.

all for today.
enjoying the kids' last day of summer holidays. tomorrow they are back-to-school. back to making lunches. back to 45 minute bus rides from the farm. back to hanging with their friends. yippeeeeee.

btw - if i go m.i.a. for a little while.......i'm on the combine (farming) -- takes a major priority right now.

{from the farm},
j.

a week from today

2011-08-31T13:56:00.000-07:00

.... the kids will be starting school.
yesterday, asha & I had a little "back to school" photo shoot with her new clothes.

(no New York Fashion deals yet)
just a week left to do all the fun summer stuff we have forgotten to do.

gotta get my thinking cap on.

{from the farm},

in case you wanted to know

2011-08-29T19:59:00.000-07:00

This is what you get your children when you start to feel guilty for being sick for most of the summer. 3 children, 3 kitties........of course.

(Ace, Cheeto & Ocho)

We've been having some super fun evenings on the back deck.

{from the farm},

hot fun in the summertime

2011-08-19T13:17:00.000-07:00

Well......where do I even begin? Summer, here on the farm, is always a crapshot (meaning, you never know what you're gonna get). Our summers are spent having fun with our family, biking, swimming, playing with friends, having campfires in the backyard, camping, staying up late, watching movies, mowing lawn, etc., and watching (& hoping) the crops around us are growing at the speed and intensity that we would wish. This year was no different, only with a few minor glitches in the mix. I'll explain.

We started summer off by finishing Daria's baseball season. After a year off (last year) from baseball, Dare came back to the team as one of the pitchers. We were so proud of her as she tore up the mound and was often asked to come in to pitch when they needed some batters struck out. She's not the big, strong athlete-type, so her pitches aren't fast......but slow & steady often wins the race, right?!? The team ended up second in the league and ended up going to Provincials in early July.

We then moved into two weeks of swimming lessons for all 3 of our kids. We ended up camping right at the pool during the second week b/c it's a pretty long drive from the farm everyday. Daria took her Bronze Medallion and was swimming for 2 hours (8:30-10:30) every day. It's intense (I remember from my years as a swimmer) and watching your child go through that intensity is a test for parents. She's an amazing swimmer -- she's built for it (like her mother / hahahahaha) and I love watching her glide through the water. We are still waiting for the results from her exam in the mail. Wish her luck.

Carter took his level 6 and passed it. He had so much fun swimming with his buddies and mastering (once again) his dive.
Asha started in Level 2 during the first week and was promptly moved into Level 3, excelling at everything asked of her. Into the second week she started to complain about her nose hurting when she went under the water. She had a pretty nasty cough at the time during the nights in the camper and we were giving her medication. Unfortunately, it wasn't working and we noticed that her cough had changed. We decided to take her to the doctor and make an appointment for myself as well, as I had an awful cold & a slight temperature.

That same afternoon (Wednesday), Asha was admitted to the hospital with pneumonia. I listened behind closed doors outside her hospital room as nurses tried to find a vein to put in an I.V. and take blood from her. She screamed and called for me, testing my skills as her mother once again. Afterwards, she was happy sitting in her hospital bed, waiting for her daddy to get there with movies and snacks. She stayed for one night, with I.V. fluids for 24 hrs, and medication to take home afterwards for 10 days. She went home with her I.V. still in her arm so she could come back for the next 3 days to get medication injected into her body.

Two days later, I was admitted to the same hospital with pneumonia as well. I had been given antibiotic pills earlier that same day to take at home and ended up throwing them up all afternoon. By the time Ron got me to the hospital around suppertime, the nurses could hardly find a vein to get an I.V. into me. They had to poke me about 9 different times to find a vein. Ouch!!! I was hooked to an I.V. for 24 hours where fluids were injected into me. I ended up staying until the next evening when Ron picked me up and took me home. I also went home with my I.V. still in my wrist and returned to the hospital twice a day (morning & evening) for 3 days for antibiotics. I took medication at home for the next 10 days to treat my pneumonia.

A week later (after my I.V. came out, a camping trip with my family and some fun on the farm), I started feeling awful again. Ron brought me to the hospital for multiple testing and was, in the end, diagnosed to have something called C. Difficile, a "bug" you get when large levels of antibiotics are given to you during a hospital stay. I had, in the meantime, lost all energy, was very tired & sore in my legs and shoulders, and went to the bathroom anytime I ate something. I, unfortunately, have the type of C. diff. that cannot be treated with antibiotics to cure (now THAT'S ironic).......so I am left to get my body better on my own. So........I am adjusting and trying to build the good flora back up in my body. I'm eating yogurt (which I HATE) and taking Probiotic vitamins to help my body. I've lost weight (nice little side-effect) and everyday I am trying new foods to see if my body can handle it. It's a crap-shoot, like I said earlier. Everyday, I'm getting stronger though and getting healthier. I believe God doesn't give us anything we can't handle, so.........I'm gonna handle this one just fine!!

So........let's continue on with the F.U.N. in summer now.

The kids have been having fun playing in the canola fields by our house. Carter & Asha like to take long, bamboo sticks out to the field and play Ninjas.
The girls take the opportunity on really hot days to "shower" on the trampoline. The water is super cold, so the rinsing of the shampoo is a little more difficult. Daria usually has to catch Asha first with the hose.

We have witnessed this Glory many evenings. We can sit on our deck or walk down our lane and see a gorgeous sunset almost every night. How many of you can say that? Another benefit of living on the Prairies.

We just came back from a 4 day camping trip with Ron's side of the family. There are eleven grandchildren (most of them teenagers) and ten adults, so the camping is getting easier (but louder) every year. It was so much fun and the weather was unbelieveable!!!

Here, Asha & her cousin Lila are standing in front of the tent they slept in together. If you want to hear something cute, go here to watch a youtube video of Asha and Lila. They spent hours composing a song in their tent and they performed it for each one of us. Pretty sure they would love it if you left them a comment.

So.....that's pretty much our summer (minus a few things) in a nutshell. I'll share more tomorrow.....I'm sure I've missed a few things (we're always busy here).

I want to end by sharing a Design Team Call for a fabulous company. I've been fortunate enough to be on this DT for 3 terms and it's a HOOT!!!!!! I cannot encourage you enough to try out for this DT and join the team.

Click here to see my post on the mSB blog for this layout.

ATTENTION all stampers and myStamp BOX fans!

We are looking for new Designers to join our team. If you are enthusiastic about our stamps, love to stamp, are a good team player, and know a thing or two about blogging, you are the right match for us! We are interested in designers with a variety of styles who can creatively showcase myStamp BOX designs in their layouts, cards, altered art and other projects. No previous design team experience is necessary. International applicants are welcome to apply.

Our Term is 6 months from October 1st, 2011 to March 31th, 2012.

Team requirements:
* 4 projects per month
* 1 blog entry per month including good quality photos of a project and instructions/tutorial
* Upload all projects to the myStamp BOX website gallery and other online galleries
* Submit at least 2 projects per term for submission to print magazines of your choice
* Occasionally help with additional design opportunities – new stamp sets, classes, etc.
* make myStamp BOX the only stamping company you design for during this term

Team benefits:
*bio and picture on the website, with links to your blog
*a starter kit of stamp sets and additional stamp sets throughout your term
*other free scrapbooking supplies from product partners as they become available
*30% discount on purchased myStampBox stamps during your term

Please include in your application:
*personal information (your name, address)
*a short paragraph about yourself and why you think you’d be a good fit for myStamp BOX.
*link to your blog and gallery
*3-5 examples of your work showcasing your stamping ability and style

This call ends Tuesday, August 30, 2011

Send your application to bettina@mystampbox.com
myStampBOX website: http://mystampbox.com/

We can’t wait to hear from you!

until tomorrow (from the farm),

sorry I am having difficulty with the spacing in this post. I'll try to fix it for tomorrow.

quick update & mSB blog post

2011-07-28T08:52:00.000-07:00

Wowzers......A LOT!!!!! has happened in our little family since I last posted. I'm gonna get to all that real soon, but I've got to direct you over to the myStampBOX Blog today. It's MY DAY!!!!!
Head over there to see a cute little butterfly project Asha & I created.

And there's a mSB Stamp Set giveaway coming very soon....................stay tuned & tell a friend. I'll get back to you on that one too.

beating the heat today {from the farm},
j.

not complaining

2011-07-08T13:31:00.000-07:00

It's turned into instant summer around here.......

.......and we are loving it.

enjoying our summer dayz (from the farm),

a sister's apology

2011-06-27T11:20:00.000-07:00

It was my little sister's birthday yesterday and I didn't even call her. How bad is that?
Thought I'd share a few of the layouts I have done in the past that have photos of her.

Playful: I love this first photo. She's the little one in the yellow bathing suit. I seem to remember this moment at Spruce Woods when we were little. Although we probably thought she was a pain in the butt at this point in our lives........we still had fun with her. I don't have the photo that happened right after this blissful moment........maybe we don't want to know. Maybe that's why she's never been a true mermaid in the water. What did we do to her?

House of Gold: I remember the wall paper. I remember the tacky linoleum. I remember playing with the farm pets we had growing up. But, for the life of me, I don't remember this dog!!!! It's funny. None of us do. Don't ya just love the red turtle-neck and overalls on me? And look at that mushroom haircut.
3 roomies: I've had the priviledge of vacationing with both of my sisters -- not at the same time (that would be CRAZY!!!!) -- but, on seperate occasions. Although my older sister & I had a blast together, I think the most special vacation was spent cruising the Caribbean with my younger sister. It was incredibly meaningful to watch her first reactions to so many things on our holiday. We were able to share so many moments together and I will cherish that forever. Thanks, Buff, for coming along and helping me through a week of work that would have been difficult if you had not been there.

Blissful: My younger sister has a complete wacky side of her and she is so funny....sometimes. This was a time when she was determined to ride this crazy, retro bike that my older sister has on the farm. She could hardly stay on the thing -- she was practically peeing with laughter. And so were the rest of us.
Picture Perfect: Although there are a ton of differences within us three sisters, I do not deny the similarities. We are too much like our mother -- and she's a pretty incredible woman herself. The three of us live so close to one another and we are so blessed to have children the same age, who love each other very much. So, I will never take my sisters for granted. I know this doesn't happen everyday -- that three sisters can see each other whenever we want. That we can share a bond so close that it makes people around us stop and take notice.
Happy Birthday, Buffy.....a little late, I know.

From your two OLDER sisters.

{from the farm},

to those who care

2011-06-26T16:37:00.000-07:00

Tonight's supper.

Yum!!!!!

{from the farm},

make me smile

2011-06-25T18:34:00.000-07:00

It's been a pretty bleak Spring here on the farm. Although the crop is {somewhat} in the ground -- most of it -- we are still facing LOTS of rain in the forecast. To tell you the truth, it's pouring right now (again) as I type this. As farmers, we wait all winter for a glimpse of spring when we can sow our crops and work all summer for a harvest. We live for it. Which, in a nutshell, is why we are farmers in the first place. We love the challenges -- although this one that He is giving us this time is a bit much, my dear husband would say. It's a challenge alright, just trying to stay positive everyday when the sun shines in the morning and the clouds start rollin' in during the evening.

So.......I thought I should post some of the more upbeat things that are happening around here. Things that are making me smile.

1. My flower beds are looking great. A lot of the blooms are full right now and some of my faves (lilies, lamb's ear, lilacs) are filling the beds nicely. I love taking my coffee in the morning and walking around the yard in silence, just looking at the beauty.....and the weeds. ;) Yes...they are there as well. This is one of my favourite beds in my yard -- I can see it from my front living room window.

2. I out did myself the other evening (if I can brag), and created a marvelous meal of barbequed cod, garlic mashed potatoes & green beans. Carter thought it looked like something at The Olive Garden.........funny, we never go there. Don't know why he said that.
I actually thought of Allison Orthner while I took this photo of my supper because she, in the past, has emailed me on occassion to ask what I was making for supper. Too funny. Well, girl........wish you could have enjoyed it with me.

3. Carter is, again, learning to mow our lawn. It is so fun to watch him as he zips around on the mower. He is much braver than I think he should be -- going way too fast for his mother to be watching him. He sings at the top of his lungs the whole time (notice his mouth in this picture). I love sneaking a photo now and then.

4. Daria is done her Grade 7 exams. She wrote two of them -- L.A. & Science. And......amidst all the studying and last week of classes, she and Carter decided they should get StrepThroat. I actually thought Dare had mono because she would literally fall asleep in the middle of studying (and she's a BIG studying-kind-of-kid). One night she fell asleep in the middle of the dining room floor, with her study notes all around her. She ended up writing her Science exam at home, in her jammies. But they are done now and she is on penicillin and on the mend. Carter is still quite sick, but I'm sure by Monday we'll have some meds for him......and then he'll be back to mowing & singing!!!

5. I finally caved and gave Asha a 7th birthday party for her. She had been bugging me since......ummmm......March 31st!!!!!!! Anyway, last weekend she invited three friends over for a little sleepover in the basement. We put the big tent up in the rec room and they had some fun....camping in the basement. Now no more listening to "when am I going to have my party?" ('til next year).

I don't have a photo of today, but we had a wonderful day outside today as well. We've been working hard to get our new camper in order for the summer. We parked it by the house last evening and the girls slept in it together. Fun stuff. It was a beautiful day, sunny & hot.
Now.......it's raining (pouring) and the power just went out in the house. Asha will not be impressed as her room is in the basement and it will be black down there.

We can see the sky opening up in the west. It's a spectacular orange. Amazing what God will bring after the bleakness. He tests us all the time; giving us a challenge and then lets us know He still cares and will send beauty in the end. Wow.......{sigh}.

Glad there's church tomorrow...........looking forward to it.

good-night {from the farm},

don't sniffle at this // mSB Mystery BOX Hop

2011-06-23T01:00:00.000-07:00

Welcome to the myStampBOX “Mystery Box Hop”!

If you have just happened upon our event today,
please begin your journey on the

myStamp BOX blog here.

All of our wonderful myStamp BOX designers are joining us today to show off some
inspirational BOX creativity!

Here is the order in which the CREATIVITY will follow:
Bettina Von Gross (http://mystampbox.com/blog/)
Jill Hildebrand (http://www.fromthefarm-jill.blogspot.com/) YOU ARE HERE.
Sue Sykes (http://www.kewl-beans.blogspot.com/)
Jaine Drake (http://www.craftydrake.blogspot.com/)
Janet Zeppa (http://janetsjoy.blogspot.com/)
Birgit Koopsen (http://birgitkoopsen.typepad.com/)
Linda Abadie (http://lindaabadie.com/)
Jolene Johnston (http://jolenejohnston.blogspot.com/)
Agata Pfister (http://underconstruction-agata.blogspot.com/)
Rebecca Keppel (http://www.myclutteredcorner.com/)
Marsha Valk (http://marshavalk.wordpress.com/)
Allison Cope (http://yourmemoriescanada.blogspot.com/)

and then back to:
myStamp BOX Blog (http://mystampbox.com/blog/)

We are giving away an amazing prize package from the myStamp BOX shop for our event this weekend and all you have to do is COMMENT along your journey to WIN.

We have given three of our lovely designers a mystery prize box and you could WIN the prize inside just by leaving a COMMENT on EVERY designer’s blog. Our Mystery Box Hop winner will be announced on the myStamp BOX blog on Monday so all comments are due by Sunday June 26th at 11:59pm EST. Good Luck!

So....when two naked Kraft boxes arrive in the mail.......
and there are no limits (except to use as many mSB stamps as I can)..........
here is what I did with my MYSTERY BOXes…...

Box #1:

I started with my first box unfolded, laying flat on my desk, and painted it hot pink. After it dried, I used a variety of mSB stamp sets to create a funky design all over the box. I stamped with dye ink in light grey, dark grey & black. I had to be careful which way I stamped my image, incase the image would be upside-down once the box was folded later. With the box still flat on my desk, I cut a long slit in the top of the box with my exacto knife. I fastened part of a clear page protector to the underside of the long slit -- y'know....that clear slit that the Kleenex sticks out through. It worked perfectly. Finally, I folded the box and adhered it together with my tape runner. I filled the box with folded Kleenex and pulled one through the opening at the top. How cute.

mSB stamps used: Backgrounds, Border Lines, Funky Flowers & Timelines

Box #2:
For this box, I used a mask and glimmer mist to create a base on the naked kraft box (no paint required -- just some drying time). I then used a VersaMark ink pad, embossing powder in baby pink & blue and two different mSB stamp sets. I did everything while the box was still unfolded. When I was happy with the design, I created the box the same as Box #1.

mSB stamps used: Colourful Companions & Abundant Blossoms
Now it’s time to HOP along and find out what the next amazing designer has created with their MYSTERY BOX. Your next designer is noneother than the fabulous & incredibly talented Sue Sykes.

Don’t forget to leave a comment below for a chance to WIN one of our MYSTERY BOX giveaways!

HAVE FUN!!!

{from the farm},
j.

fun with a box.....tomorrow

2011-06-22T09:29:00.000-07:00

Check in tomorrow at the myStampBOX Blog.

We are having a

Mystery BOX Blog Hop.

It's gonna be F.U.N.!!!

Here's a little sneak at what I created with my box:

So, check back tomorrow,

invite your friends to join the fun,

him

2011-06-18T19:01:00.000-07:00

On Sunday.....many people will be celebrating the fathers in their lives.........and I will be joining them. So, I thought it fitting to share a few things I LOVE about my Dad (these are just a few -- there are sooooooooo many more):

1. I love how he takes a special interest in our kids (all his grandchildren, actually). But the special bond he shares with Daria (my oldest / his oldest grandchild) is incredibly special. They just seem to always have this certain "thing" that will always keep them close. I hope, as Daria grows up and moves away, she will continue to grow even closer to her Pa.
2. Dad "tolerates" countless photos taken of him with his grandchildren. What a trooper!!!! Thanks, Dad. (Even Carter's getting involved in this one with his Auntie Lisa).
3. Dad, I love that you have taken a special interest in your girls' lives -- farming. You come out to help us during harvest, you take time to ask us & phone us about how things are going on the farm, and you come out to visit us often, fixing things around the house (okay........actually doing complete renovations on a weekend). I am so incredibly proud to say, when I drive by a newly built home, that "my Dad built that!!!!!!" Cool. Not everyone can say that in this world. We love your help on the farm........

..........and your help when events like this take place too. THANKS, Dad.

4. My Dad is "a lover.......not a fighter".

5. Dad is always fun to be around and is silly with the kids...........................

.....need I say more??!!!!

6. Although technology is not his strong-suit, he's trying.......trying really hard. And it's evenings like when he & Mom phone because they've pressed a button on the TV and don't know what they've done and we're suppose to solve it over the phone..............that I laugh & love them more and more every minute.

7. My Dad is a listener, so when other husbands are doing this...........

.....my Dad is waiting & listening to every instruction.

8. My Dad has always put up with 4 women in the house. I think that's why he's so loveable, forgiving, patient, goofy & .........................demanding!!!! He's learned from his surroundings. And besides.................can you blame him?

.......He puts up with things like this.

I LOVE YOU, DAD!!!!!!

Happy Father's Day.

xox {from the farm},

another quick peek

2011-06-15T09:02:00.000-07:00

Click HERE to see another fantastic peek at Nikki Sivils' new products.........just releasing now. She's showcasing another new line today AND giving you some close-ups of some papers.

Have a wonderful day {from the farm},
j.

nothing NERDY about this

2011-06-14T06:52:00.000-07:00

Introducing the latest addition to the Nikki Sivils, Scrapbooker line...................

I just got confirmation that we can now share some images from this new baby!!!! And this is not all. There are FOUR more new lines coming out -- they are just around the corner -- and I promise you I will share them as well.

I'm soooo excited about all 5 of the new product lines that Nikki has designed.......starting with SCHOOL IS COOL. They just seem to get better & better. Nikki has added collection kits, punch-outs, 6 different alpha stickers on one sheet of stickers.......(y'know those little square ones that I use ALL THE TIME), as well as a sheet of stickers that are just elements that coordinate with the collection. Can you believe it??!!!

I can't wait to get the mail!!!!!!!!!

Now, just like with any delivery............... I wait.

enjoy your day {from the farm},

extraordinary girl

2011-06-13T08:13:00.000-07:00

Just sharing my latest layout using the Abundant Blossoms and Colourful Companions stamp sets from myStampBOX.

Head on over to their blog today................they are introducing some events that coming up this month.

I've been busy CREATING!!!!! It'll be fun.

{from the farm},

my mSB Post is up

2011-06-08T07:58:00.000-07:00

Check out the mSB Blog today........where I created some artwork using this Colour Combination:

And also take a peek at the latest Swedish e-zine out in publication. I have layouts featured on Pages 28 & 29 and 31. You have a click on the picture of the magazine to see it in FULLSCREEN and then scroll over to see mine. It's an incredible inspirational magazine and I'm so excited to have been chosen for the latest one.

Preparing to go "muck" in the garden today. Wish me luck.

{from the farm},

Swedish e-zine

2011-06-07T18:58:00.000-07:00

Received a link today from a fellow Nikki Sivils Scrapbooker design team member (Monika Martinson) that the latest Swedish e-zine is out. And guess who has 2 layouts featured in it?

(who told you?)

Anyway.....take a peek and get tons of inspiration. There are so many layouts that I will use snippets from for creative ideas.

Click HERE to see.

My layouts are on pages 28-29 & pg. 31.

More "life" updates coming soon...........lots since I last posted. It's been a crazy spring.

{from the farm},
j.

Inspiration // Weekend

2011-05-06T07:29:00.000-07:00

Here's some Inspiration today to create those fabulous projects you want to do this weekend.

BTW - Today is NATIONAL SCRAPBOOKING DAY!!!!!!!

(Unfortunately, I'm not scrapping -- we have hockey this weekend -- but I'm hoping to check out a few fabulous scrap-stores in the city when I'm there).

Inspiration for your page:

Together Forever

She Smiles

Celebrate

(Go check out the mSB Blog today for more "National Scrap-Day" Inspiration).

Inspiration from companies:

Nikki Sivils, Scrapbooker (*new* Summer line)

Basic Grey

Maya Road

Inspiration for your House:

Have a wonderful weekend.

{from the farm},

j.

guest designer

2011-05-03T18:48:00.000-07:00

No......it's not me.

But IT COULD BE YOU!!!!!!!!

I'm sending you over to the Nikki Sivils, Scrapbooker BLOG to check out the latest

Guest Designer Call.

They are on the look out over there.................

..........and I think it could be

YOU!!!!!!!

So what are you waiting for?

Go check it out & apply today.

(Yes, that means YOU).

enjoying the sunshine {from the farm},

signs of Spring

2011-04-23T11:47:00.000-07:00

Getting the bikes out:Dusting off my retro wheels:

Bigger bikes & Rubber boots:
Double-dares in the puddles:

Enjoying this very "springy" day today.

Head over to the mSB Blog today to check out the design team's latest Easter-inspired projects.

Here's my layout featuring a photo taken at last summer's Passion Play that Daria acted in. If you ever get the chance to come and see it........ it's so worth it.

Blessings to you for a wonderful Easter weekend.

{from the farm},

only two

2011-04-11T07:57:00.000-07:00

Wow......look at that photo. This was taken back when there were only two little munchkins running around this house. This is the layout I created for my April post at myStampBOX. You can read the details here. It was featured last Friday. Pretty old school technique (resist technique), but a fun one to use nonetheless. It's a great way to stamp a title and use it for journaling on a layout as well.

Here's another layout using the same resist technique that I created last summer.

Working on another few mSB layouts today...........have a design team challenge on my hands...........a PASTEL (Easter) project!!!!!!! Yes....PASTELS!!!!! That's a hard one for me b/c I LOVE big, bright pops of colour on my layouts. Gotta keep this one a little more subdued. Chill out, jill -- you can do it!!!!!

enjoy your day {from the farm},

Drawing Inspiration from ........

2011-04-07T07:46:00.000-07:00

...... a colour & "stuff". Just some pretty stuff to look at today -- and some notes to special people in my life. {Sigh..........} This bedroom was the inspiration photo for my oldest daughter brand new bedroom -- we are just done it. I'll share photos very soon :)

Always love a good barn door in the house (seriously.......I have one too).

And why not yellow? LOVE it!!!!

Love the collection of photos -- thinking I should do something like this in my front entrance. Mental note to a friend: need to start collecting different photo frames, Lisa!!!!!

cute butterflies ....... thinking VINYL!!!!!! {hint hint}

who can cut me frames like this? or can I find them at auction/garage sales? a must-do project with sister!!!!!!

enjoy the day {from the farm},

NEW mSB Team BLOG HOP

2011-04-01T09:00:00.000-07:00

It's a WELCOME BLOG HOP today at myStampBOX, and we are thrilled to introduce our new designers to you. If you stumbled upon our blog hop today, be sure to start back at the myStampBOX blog so you don’t miss any of the action!

Come visit all of our returning design members' blogs, and you will be introduced to our new team members one by one. Make sure to leave a comment on each participating blog and a final comment once you return to our home page. On the way enjoy our welcoming cards made with our fun myStampBOX stamps.

But first we would like to thank all the wonderful and talented designers that are leaving our team. A BIG thank you goes out to:

Stephanie Ackerman, Maryfrances Fabbri, Cari Locken,

Eva Pizzaro, Kristen Swain & Melissa Wright

(These girls ROCK!!!!!)

Thank you for your hard work over the last 6 months. You’ll always be a part of the myStampBOX family. Best wishes from all of us in your next crafty adventures!

Now… let’s find out more about who will be joining the myStampBOX design team. Follow the blog hop and visit each of our returning designer blogs. Each team member will be introducing a new member of our team. At each stop, please leave a comment. When the blog hop is complete, return to the myStampBOX blog and leave one final comment to have a chance to win a myStampBOX stamp set of your very own!

Here's the order of participating blogs -- in case you get lost along the way:

mSB Blog

Agata Pfister

Jaine Drake

Jill Hildebrand (YOU ARE HERE)

Jolene Johnston

Allison Cope (coordinator)

We hope you enjoy our little welcoming blog hop!

Don’t forget to leave a comment on each one of the design team blogs and the mSB blog for your chance to win!

Good luck and happy hopping!

To start things off here, I created a card for ALL the new mSB design team members, WELCOMING them to our team. We are all so excited that you have come to share your fabulous talents with us -- I am especially looking forward to all the AMAZING blog posts coming up in the next few months!!!

(mSB stamps: mini alphas & Colour Me)

And.... now it's my honour to introduce to you:

Marsha Valk

Hi! My name is Marsha. I live in the Netherlands together with my sweet husband. I'm a part-time crafter, part-time shop assistant, part-time graphic designer, part-time photographer, part-time housekeeper and part-time cook... who loves to blog, interact with friends and has recently learned to crochet. It's a miracle I still have time to sleep ;-). My inspiration comes from anything from a walk around the block to magazines, blogs, patterned paper and photographs. Oh… and I love color!

WELCOME TO THE TEAM, Marsha!!!!!!

(Here's a little something for you)

(mSB stamps: Seal It!, Just add words & mini alphas)

Now…. Check out our next new design team member and a fun card at Jolene's blog! And don't forget to leave a comment here for your chance to win!!!

remember these // Show & Tell

2011-03-28T21:36:00.000-07:00

just sharing a few "older" layouts today.

i like looking at them and remembering the moments.

{from the farm},

building up a background

2011-03-25T07:47:00.000-07:00

This layout is being featured on the mSB Blog today. Our design team challenge was to "build a background" on either a card or layout using mSB stamps.

I decided to use my Abundant Blossoms stamp set to build up a diagonal design behind my photo. I used four different ink colours by Close To My Heart (Archival Black, Grey Wool, Grey Flannel & White Daisy) to stamp different flower designs across the background, making sure to overlap the images to get a layering effect. Then I cut out other stamped smaller flowers (stamped in Archival Black ink), snipped the petals & attached them to the layout using tiny black brads. I turned up the petals to add some dimension to the LO. Then I added my own machine stitching & embellishments.

Here are some close-ups:

I used the blank rectangle from the Just Add Notes stamp set for my journaling blocks. An easy way to fit in your journaling and bring a little pop of (ink) colour to your page!!!

Go check out what others from the mSB design team did to "Build A Background"............ and build your own in your scraproom today.

{from the farm},
j.

my A-Z Favourites List

2011-03-24T18:14:00.000-07:00

Thought this would be fun. It may tell you more about me than you ever wanted to know.

Actress - Halle Berry
Book - Island of the Blue Dolphins (Scott O'Dell) -- a good one from my childhood.
Colour - turquoise
Day - Friday
Eating-out Restaurant - Red Lobster
Fruit - strawberry
Gum - anything spicey
Horror movie - The Candyman (Ron & my first date movie)
Ice cream flavour - chocolate
Juice - apple
Knight - Lancelot
Language - English
Musical - Les Miserable -- just saw it again; still LOVE it!!!!!
Number - 4
Olympic athlete - any of the Summer O gymnastic dudes (wowzers)
Pickles - my grandma's
Quote - "Without His love I can do nothing, with His love there is nothing I cannot do".
Reality TV show - Amazing Race
Singer(s) - Il Divo
Talkshow host - Ellen
Underwear - Hanes
Vegetable - fresh peas picked straight from the garden
Weather - bright, hot & sunny (with a chance of meatballs)
Xmas song - Joy to the World
Year - 1998 (the year I became a mom)
Zodiac - Scorpio

Hope you have a wonderful day {from the farm},
j.

two posts

2011-03-23T06:24:00.000-07:00

My March post is up today at the myStampBOX blog. Go check it out here. We did something a little different this month and created "partner" projects. You'll want to go see everyone's creations!!!!!

Here's a sneak peek of my LO:

And click here to check out the LOs I created using the latest lines from Nikki Sivils Scrapbooker. They were posted on their blog yesterday ........... just didn't quite get them posted on mine (how bad is that??).

Here's a little taste before you head over there:

I'll post some Inspiration Layouts tomorrow......................so come back for more.

{from the farm},
j.

Extra // Extra

2011-03-20T19:25:00.001-07:00

COMING SOON!!!!!

On Friday April 1st (seriously....i'm not kidding) we will be having a BLOG HOP introducing you to all of the newest members of the Design Team over at myStamp BOX. The official team list has not been released yet....but it's coming real soon!!! Be patient -- it's a good one!!!

So mark your calendars! There will be tons of inspirational cards welcoming all the new designers to the team.

Hope to see you there!
(*did I just give some news away???)

{from the farm},

for those cuddling little pink bundles today

2011-03-15T07:38:00.000-07:00

It's been nutz around here.
No excuses for the lack of posting.
No new babies.
No new job.
No weddings, funerals or celebrations.

Just a quick trip to Minneapolis.
Just a few "minor" renovations in my kids' bedrooms (when do I ever do something minor?).
Just a "few" subbing days (more like a few EVERY week).
Just my LIFE.
And I love it!!!

enjoying the sunshine (from the farm},

new DT Call......PAY ATTENTION!!!!!!!

2011-02-24T08:20:00.000-08:00

So.....I am lucky enough to belong to a design team that is totally FANTASTIC!!!!! And they are in the process of looking for some new talented designers.

THIS COULD BE YOU!!!!!

Read the following......and if there is a glimmer of hope that you could be interested in applying, PLEASE DO!!!!! You will never regret it. myStampBOX has a fabulous team, you receive AMAZING product and you get to scrapbook while completely your requirements & deadlines. Uh....HELLO.....who wouldn't love that??!?!?

Here's the "official" Call:

ATTENTION all stampers and myStamp BOX fans!

We are looking for new Designers to join our team. If you are enthusiastic about our stamps, love to stamp, are a good team player, and know a thing or two about blogging, you are the right match for us! We are interested in designers with a variety of styles who can creatively showcase myStamp BOX designs in their layouts, cards, altered art and other projects. No previous design team experience is necessary. International applicants are welcome to apply.

Our Term is 6 months from April 1st, 2011 to September 30th, 2011.

Team requirements:
* 4 projects per month
* 1 blog entry per month including good quality photos of a project and instructions/tutorial
* Upload all projects to the myStamp BOX website gallery and other online galleries
* Submit at least 2 projects per term for submission to print magazines of your choice
* Occasionally help with additional design opportunities – new stamp sets, classes, etc.
* make myStamp BOX the only stamping company you design for during this term
Team benefits:
*bio and picture on the website, with links to your blog
*a starter kit of stamp sets and additional stamp sets throughout your term
*other free scrapbooking supplies from product partners as they become available
*30% discount on purchased myStampBox stamps during your term

Please include in your application:
*personal information (your name, address)
*a short paragraph about yourself and why you think you’d be a good fit for myStamp BOX.
*link to your blog and gallery
*3-5 examples of your work showcasing your stamping ability and style

This call ends Friday, March 4, 2011

Send your application to bettina@mystampbox.com

myStampBOX website: www.mystampbox.com

We can’t wait to hear from you!

Good luck, Everyone!!!!
{from the farm},
j.

hoops & dreams

2011-02-19T21:45:00.001-08:00

He was born for this moment.

Carter's first organized school basketball game.....with an actual team.

.....with an actual school jersey.

Wearing Dwayne Wade's number (that's a BIG DEAL for him).

And I was there the whole time.

Cheering him on.

Watching the coach (his daddy)........who, by the way, was in his glory too.

And loving every minute of it.

still cheering {from the farm},

a little bit of pink icing......

2011-02-16T06:35:00.000-08:00

....never hurt anyone.

Will I have time for some baking today?
{perhaps}

smiling {from the farm},

she reads

2011-02-15T12:07:00.000-08:00

she's loving little chapter books right now.
she's loving the independance of Early Readers.
she's spending longer than 3 minutes; figuring out words & meanings.
she's reading.
she's celebrating.

it's "I love to read" week at school.
She's read 3 little chapter books already and it's only Tuesday.

thoughts:
I should sit down and read more.

{from the farm},
j.

i love US

2011-02-14T06:00:00.000-08:00

HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY to my family!!!!!!

And everyone else i love in my life........that's YOU!!!

xox {from the farm},

Join the LOVE Train

2011-02-11T11:01:00.000-08:00

I'm so excited that you've joined us today!!!

You've got your ticket and now you're a passenger on the myStampBOX Love Train! Let's travel along the tracks to each of our talented designers and see the sites! We're going to share all kinds of cool cards and projects with you on your journey today. We're also going to give away some amazing stamp sets too! If you are just joining in, please visit the myStampBOX blog to begin your journey.

All Aboard.......let's begin our journey right now!

Just in case your train de-rails, these are the very talented Design Team stops we're going to make along the way...

Agata Pfister

Cari Locken

Eva Pizarro

Jaine Drake

Jill Hildebrand -- This is ME!!!!!!

Jolene Johnston

Maryfrances Fabbri

Melissa Wright

Stephanie Ackermann

Allison Cope

myStampBOX blog

To be eligible to be our random stamp winner, you must visit each of the designer's blogs (just click on their names above) and leave a comment on their Love Train post. Once you have visited and commented on each designer's blog, you can return to the myStampBOX blog and leave one final comment to let us know what your favourite stop along your journey was (memememememememe....ooops, sorry!).

So........today I'm going to share two layouts I created using the Seal It!, Pennants & the Backgrounds stamp sets......with a little Love-theme, of course.

Love me:

Now, you may think that I used the Pennants set to create that little banner under the photo on this layout. Fact is, I didn't ....... that's just a printed transparency cut into a banner. I actually used the teeny, tiny heart stamp in the Pennants set to stamp little hearts above the mirrored birdie. Here's a close-up.

Yeah....that's it.....simple as that! Nothing fancy......just using some brilliant mSB stamp sets!!!!!

I also used one of my favourite stamps from the Seal It! stamp set on this layout as well, stamping on brown, lined fullscap paper. "100% Yourself" is exactly what I wanted to say about my puppy playing outside on this blustery, cold Manitoba day. She's soooooooo BIG, but such a baby about anything cold!!!!! She just looks at you with her sad face and you can't help but bring her inside to warm up.

Next, I created an 8 1/2X11 double-page layout about a special day my six year-old daughter, Asha & I spent at Disney together.....y'know, one of those "just the two of us" kinda' days!!!!!

Love This Day:

I created the heart up in the rh corner using my brand new favourite mSB stamp set: Backgrounds (insert heart pounding, palms sweating, mouth drying). I LOOOOOOOVE this set so much!!!! I actually get a little nervous getting this stamp set out (it's like going on that first date with that really hot guy you like -- a.k.a. my husband now -- hahahahaha. You know you're gonna have a great time; the experience is probably gonna end sooner than you'd like; and you hope you'll get to see them again real soon....sometimes there's even a kiss at the end of the night. Okay.....actually there isn't...I'm not that crazy....really!!!).

Anyways......I used the circles from the Backgrounds set to stamp on a piece of red cardstock, embossing the image with crisp, white embossing powder and then cutting it out in the shape of a heart. I added a mat around the image with dictionary paper (yeah....no kidding....I rip up my dictionary so that when my kids go to look for the word, let's say "remote", it's gone -- not impressed). Then I machine stitched with green around the whole heart. Why green? Why not!!! (don't worry, Mom. I know how to change the thread on my machine).

Here's a close-up of the stamped heart (with a little bit 'o bling):

Thanks for stopping by here on your journey. Don't forget to leave a comment below to be eligible for a fabulous prize!!!! Now.....onto the next station.

You're next stop is Jolene. But hold onto your seats.....I know she's gonna blow you off the rails with her talent. She's so incredibly clever with those stamp sets.....such an inspiration!!!!!

Happy travelling {from the farm},

2011-02-10T07:52:00.000-08:00

Head on over to the mSB Blog today to see my latest post.

And...............join us TOMORROW for our fabulous

"Love"-inspired BLOG HOP!!!!!!!

See you tomorrow {from the farm},

i can show you now

2011-02-02T13:54:00.000-08:00

Here's a few layouts I created using Nikki Sivil Scrapbookers "Something for Everyone" and "Sugar Cookie" lines. They were both featured on their blog a few weeks back and I remembered just now that I hadn't shared them with you yet.

Looking Back: featuring a photo of me & my cutie little niece, Erica.

Cheers to us: i used a photo of me & my sister-in-laws.....love them!!! and I created the layout using a 12x12 page protector with 6 - 4x6 pockets. I put photos and paper underneath, and layered the embellies on top to give some dimension. Soooooo fun & EASY!!!!!!!

And head on over to the mSB blog today to check out my latest layout using the fabulous new Pennants stamp set & the Timelines stamp set. LOVE both these new sets!!!!!!! It's funny how I forget about these layouts sometimes. I create them so far in advance for the DT that, by the time they are featured, the layout has been sitting on a pile (uhhum......I mean in an album) for so long. I've got to get a better system going so this won't happen.

Here's a sneak peek before you head over to the mSB blog:

btw - spent a huge portion of my afternoon in my scrap space.........some clean, some organizing, lots of creating.
(smile).

And to those who scolded me for thinking my scrap space is boring.............it is!!!!!! Well, at least for now it is.

It's colourful -- yes.

It's busy -- yes.

It's inspiring even -- yes.

But it's not organized & fresh & tidy & my style & did I say organized??!? So, just wait until I'm done with it (.........I may need a shopping trip before I can continue though)!!!!!

see you soon {from the farm},
j.

today

2011-01-31T20:53:00.000-08:00

It was incredibly cold today.........

dreaming of hot destinations.

Spent the afternoon & evening INSIDE organizing this space after reading my friend, Vicki Boutin's incredible article in the latest Scrapbooks, Etc. magazine. Her Parisian-inspired scrap space is sooooooo beautiful!!!!!! I emailed her today to ask for a few hot tips in helping to organize my space.

This is the before photo of my space:
Blah. Boring.
I'll post the after photo in a few days (hahahaha -- weeks) when I'm completely finished & exhausted. Need to go on a hunt for a few vintage pieces for storage: ribbon, fabric, bling, tags, adhesive; maybe even a cool magnetic idea board or funky cork board.

Hey..........and go head on over to the myStampBOX Blog to see what I created with their new Backgrounds stamp set. I'm one of the DT members being featured today. Don't forget to leave a comment there to win a set of their newest stamp sets: Pennants.

staying warm {from the farm},
j.

a little love

2011-01-28T16:23:00.000-08:00

Today I have to give shout some serious love out to two of the best companies I have ever had the priviledge to design for:

and

Both companies are getting ready in CA this weekend to kick off some new products at CHA. We sure are thinking of everyone out there this weekend -- busy setting up their booths, sweating with excitement & nervousness, getting ready for the swarms of people to come and check them out. Go get 'em!!!!!!

myStampBOX is introducing their latest stamp set: Pennants
Fortunately, I have had these little babies in my hand for about 4 weeks now and (can I say).........woohoo!!!!!! LOVE these so much. I actually sent a personal email to Bettina (the creator & owner of mSB) thanking her for sending me this set. They are absolutely spectacular -- EVERYONE has got to order them.

On another note:

Nikki Sivils Scrapbooker is also setting up their booth this weekend and introducing SIX!!!!!!! new (not just "new"...........but AWESOME) lines that are already sitting on my desk. insert a teasing sound right here......na na nana na.

Here's a little taste of some of my faves. I'm not gonna give you any more than this right now........I'll share more details about them when I create some lo's with the incredible papers.

And.....Nikki Sivils Scrapbooker is being featured TODAY on the CK Blog!!! Go check it out here.

Stay tuned for some creations very soon. And there's some BIG NEWS coming in the next few days..........something about vinyl (shhhhhhhh).

busy creating {from the farm},
j.

lions & tigers & BEARS?????

2011-01-24T10:45:00.000-08:00

Well, we didn't exactly see bears at Animal Kingdom, but it is one of the favourite spots to hit when you go to Disney. Definitely always a highlight for our family.

Daria snapped this photo of Ron & I while waiting in line for the Kilaminjaro Safari Ride. love it!!!

This is the view of the famous "Everest" roller coaster from the bridge in Africa. Everest is over in Asia and it was such a breathtaking sight to see from all areas of the park. We, of course, all went on this ride (except Asha -- she was too short for it). Daria went on twice!!!!
Kilaminjaro Safari sights:

This guy, they say, is hardly ever spotted this closely. We were so lucky to see him.

Asha & Carter enjoyed spending time with some goats at Rafiki's Planet Watch. You'd think they'd never been on a farm before or seen farm animals {lol}. They loved the goats & sheep and they spent at least half an hour just walking around while their new friends followed them.
Here, Asha is enjoying a dinosaur dig in the giant sandbox in Dinoland. Actually, it's a funny story leading up to this photo.

There was this huge "Boneyard" play structure and playground that the kids can play in. You know the kind; tons of ropes & tubes & slides & ramps. The perfect spot to lose your children. Well.....guess what??? Ron & I had given both Asha and Carter about 2 more minutes play time and then we were going to meet at the entrance. 2 minutes went by. 5 minutes went by. 7 minutes went by. Jill started to panic. Ron never does.

What we didn't know was that, although there was only one way of getting in and out of the play structure, we didn't know there was a whole new world across the bridge over the street. We finally found the two kids digging happily in the sandbox, not even thinking for a second that they were lost.

Both Asha & Carter loved taking the little maps (either of birds or other animals) and trying to spot everything on it. Here, Asha is trying to find all the birds on her map in the bird sanctuary. I wasn't much help -- I'm not too fond of birds-at-large {lol}.

Still more Disney memories to come. Wed. I'll get some photos printed so I can start some projects. I've got some BRAND NEW!!!!!! Nikki Sivils products just screaming for some Disney photos!!!!!! I'll share soon.

{from the farm},

Disney // as promised

2011-01-21T19:02:00.000-08:00

So... let's start here.
Asha came to me about 2 weeks before our vacation and asked about getting "autographs" from all the Princesses that she was going to meet in Disney World. I chatted with her about "THE book" options and we decided on a home-made creation -- something chipboard with pattern & cardstock papers inside. Well.....what a hit it was with ALL the Princesses that Asha met on her adventures!!! (Made Mommy feel pretty special as well).
Now, I don't know if they say they like everyone's albums.....but they sure were bursting about Asha's. Cool!!!!! Asha was grinning from ear-to-ear. I'll show photos of it once we get all the photos in it.

Here's a few favourites from our visit to Epcot on the first day of our trip:

Asha & Mulan

Asha, Princess Jasmine & Prince Aladdin

So.....this is what my hilarious husband does on all our vacations. He picks up on these quirky, little things that would only catch the attention of a few and he embarrasses all of us.

Outside the China exhibit at Epcot, Ron stood for minutes on end spinning this plate on a stick -- something we had just seen by some cute little children in a show -- an actual show at the park -- not some Canadian 30-ish man who is trying to send his children running in the opposite direction. What a goof!!! And I.........I just get my camera out and snap!!! It was hilarious -- at least I thought so.

And then there's always this..............what else can I say?!? I was so enchanted by the Eiffel Tower at the France exhibit (France is my dream-vaca) and all Ron could do was try on ridiculous felt (PINK!!!!!) hats. Oh.....I keep falling in love with him more & more every year!!!?!!!!!

So......I'll share more photos as I get them editted and pick my faves. This is just a sampling of the fun we had.....for now!!!!!

{from the farm},

Top 10 // CHRISTMAS // fun

2011-01-20T07:30:00.000-08:00

Here are the TOP 10 photos (memories) from Christmas 2010:

1. Spending time with each other & being a little goofey.

2. Attempting to get the perfect "Christmas Eve Family Photo" yet another year!!!!
{Here we are enjoying our annual tradition of a chocolate fondue after the church evening program}.

3. Watching reactions like this.

4. Trying new things . . .

5. . . . and being successful at it -- even enjoying it!!!

6. Digging into Daria's wonderful Candycane Cheesecake.

7. Watching Asha prepare Moon Sand cupcakes she made from scratch.
How cute are these?

8. Dodging Carter's new jeep rippin' through a tower of boxes.

9. All the cousins trying to figure out a new game someone opened for Christmas.

10. Helping to assemble my niece's delicious & sweet creations

stacked high on a four-tier dessert tray!!!!!

Yummy.

HOPE YOU HAD A WONDERFUL CHRISTMAS AS WELL!!!!!!!

Disney photos are coming soon!!!!

{from the farm},

we celebrate in style

2011-01-18T09:34:00.000-08:00

So.....we started the New Year off with style this year. A good friend & cousin brought about 20 live lobsters out to my sister & brother-in-law's farm to kick off the year with a feast.

My brother-in-law found this huge pot in the barn that they used to use when they slaughtered pigs & made sausage. There's a special German name for it -- and I know it -- but just can't spell it {lol}. The men started the fire up & heating the water around 3 in the afternoon and we showed up around 5-ish. It actually felt like I was in the middle of the lake ice fishing all day (although we were just steps from the house). With the ice & snow, the fire going, the kids playing in a huge fort by the barn & the drink in my hand, the party was just beginning.

We threw all 20 lobsters in at one time and it didn't take long before it started smelling like supper. It was so cold outside that the steam created by the boiling water made it tricky to see the lobsters cooking.
Twenty minutes later, the lobsters were ready to come out of the pot. We used three large roasters and lugged them inside the house as they were taken out of the water.

And here was our feast. How delicious does this look -- if you love lobster, that is??!? My sister had made some garlic butter on the stove that we dipped our meat in. Wow!!! I definitely ate waaaaaaay too much -- but it was so worth it.

still recovering {from the farm},

yummies

2011-01-17T20:58:00.000-08:00

just a little taste of what I need to share with you.
some Christmas memories.
some new year's memories & goodness.
coming soon.

i've been back from my Disney vacation for about 6 days and i am still sorting out photos. i'll share soon -- promise. need to get some photos printed so i can start using some of the goodness i received in the mail the other day (will share this soon)!!!!!!

i've got a list of things that i've been jotting down to post -- lots of new stuff; new products; new creations; new news!!!!!

Please keep checking back with me -- i'm here (alive and kicking) -- really; i am.

'til then {from the farm},
j.

post-Christmas break

2010-12-30T16:19:00.000-08:00

Our family has had a super Christmas season, so..................

..........we are off to Disney World to celebrate with these amazing characters (and hopefully a few Disney Princess for Asha)!!!!!!

See you mid-January to show you photos of Christmas, New Years & Disney!!!!!!!

looking forward to warmer weather {from the farm},
j.

last night & this morning

2010-12-22T10:56:00.000-08:00

Last night we enjoyed a wonderful evening of music & classroom skits at Asha & Carter's school concert. My older sister, Lisa is the music teacher at their school. It was so exciting to see her in her "element". She's an incredibly talented musician & teacher -- my kids are so lucky to have "Auntie Lisa" as their music teacher.

And this morning I took a walk around the yard......enjoying the frosty weather.......

........ and the frosty faces.

Have a wonderful day!!!!!

{from the farm},

around my house // Christmas time

2010-12-15T18:28:00.001-08:00

"It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas".

The welcome wreath at the front door.
Someone is looking pretty sad at the door these days -- it's cold outside.

So we allow Kayna in for a nap during the evening.
Our tree is so pretty this year (I think I say that every year).
We actually go slugging out in the bush at my brother-in-laws to personally pick our tree. We cut down the smallest one, bring it home & it usually ends up still looking massive in our living room.
This year.......it's just perfect.

Daria's new ornament this year.

Some other new sparkly balls for the tree.

Baking shortbread cookies.

Paper snowflakes (created by Asha) for my window.

Decor in my living room & dining room.

The "snowbaby" village that the girls set up every year.

The village buildings come from my sister and every "snowbaby" ornament is specially hand-painted by Ron's aunts at Christmas. We get to pick 5 for our family every year........which we add to the display.

One of my favourite traditions & memories.

We will cherish these ornaments forever.

Asha is counting down the days 'til Christmas with her school-made paper chain.

And can anyone else say they have a replica of the Taj Mahal in their living room right now?

Anyone?

Carter created this (with a little help from his parents) for his Structures Project in Grade 4.

It heads out the door tomorrow for his presentation.

Wishing you joy & happiness this holiday season.

May you feel the true meaning of Christmas in your hearts

& share it with your friends and family.

Blessings {from the farm},

cruisin' design

2010-12-13T09:17:00.000-08:00

So.....it seems like months & months & months ago that I shared the news with you that I was invited to create & design a layout for this years Crop and Cruise event as a past Featured Instructor. Well.......that fabulous event has been and gone and they all had a fantastic time (so jealous I couldn't be there this time). Click here to read all about their ADVENTURES.

I realize that I never did share the layout I designed using the greatest products from three amazing companies that I design for:
Nikki Sivils Scrapbooker,
myStampBOX &
Cut Your Way!!!!!!
Click here, here & here to see these companies featured on the Crop and Cruise blog.

So here is the layout (drumroll, please): My Personal Paradise

There are so many incredible products that I had the pleasure of working with. Basically, I chose each company's products and created a double-page layout kit. After choosing the products for the kit, I then designed the layout. Choosing the products first (without really having a definite vision in mind allowed me to "go a little crazy" with the products and choose prints & patterns that wouldn't be a scrappers first choice). I love doing this -- thinking a little outside-the-box and making participants think "holy cow, how's THIS gonna work?"

Here's a close-up of the mSB stamp set I used in the design -- Abundant Blossoms. I mixed the stamps with fabulous (fuschia) vinyl from Cut Your Way and one of my favourite products from NS, the burlap buttons. Loooooooove these!!!!!!

My sister personally cut all the titles, flowers & palm trees for the layout. Love the little details all over the layout that give it such a "paradise" touch. I used the cardstock pocket from the Pocket of Treats (by Nikki Sivils) to house one of my feature photos on the layout. Gives the page a little more dimension, while the vinyl dresses things up a bit.

I combined the Cardstock Letter Stickers from NS with a purple vinyl "paradise" from Cut Your Way. Took a while to find just the right font for the title (vinyl), but I think it turned out just the way I imagined.

Little details, like these Cardstock Stickers from NS complete any layout. You just gotta' have them all!!!!

Now....go check the Crop and Cruise blog so you don't miss the next event, all the fabulous products from myStampBOX & Nikki Sivils Scrapbooker and get emailing your vinyl order into Cut Your Way. Go on.......you have a busy day ahead of you!!!!!

(**editted**)

Thought I better give you the complete supply list -- in case you want to create your own "paradise" layout.

Nikki Sivils:

Willow Bee PP - Bee Strips/Day Dreamer; North Pole Nights - Creatures Are Stirring/24 Nights Til Christmas; Something for Everyone - For Hilde/For Deana; Blueberry Hill - Vines/Sunny Day for Blueberries; Boo-tiful - Trick or Treat Small my Feet/My Costume; U R My Favourite - U R My Favourite/U R Love

Burlap Buttons - red

Cardstock Stickers - Sugar Cookie

Pocket of Treats - Brown Curtain

myStampBOX:

Abundant Blossoms

Cut Your Way:

olive (palm tree)

fuschia (multi-sized flowers)

plum (paradise)

{from the farm},

a quick link

2010-12-08T10:51:00.001-08:00

Go check out MY POST over at the mSB Blog today. There is soooooooo much Inspiration happening during the 12 Days of Christmas celebration.

enjoying a day of catch-up {from the farm},
j.

Season of Giving // True Love

2010-12-01T06:09:00.000-08:00

Yippeeeeee!!!! It's finally here. The time of year I just llloooooovvvvveeeeee. It's December and I'm so excited that we can celebrate the Season of Giving together over at the mSB Blog. So......we are giving you loads of Christmas stamping ideas to fill your head {and get those dancing sugarplums out of there for just a second}.

Join our team as we share inspiration and create some yummy treasures during the "12 Days of Christmas". I've seen the sneak peeks..........and they are fabulous!!!

So.....come on over and celebrate the holidays with the mSB Design Team.

dancing with sugarplums {from the farm},

btw - And head on over to Nikki Sivils Scrapbooker today for a chance to WIN!!!!!!!! a fabulous basket of goodies from her. You won't be sorry!!!!!!!

beautiful TAGS

2010-11-30T11:43:00.000-08:00

Go pop by the myStampBOX blog today to see my latest DT post. I was in search of the perfect tags to complete some Christmas wrapping. Check out my latest creations using fabric, mSB stamps and some creative thinking.

enjoying the SunShine -- from the farm,
j.

Special Holiday Inspiration

2010-11-29T18:36:00.000-08:00

Check out the myStampBOX blog starting on December 1st (yes, that's on Wednesday!!!) to play along with our mSB Design Team.

There will be loads of Holiday Inspiration!!!!!!

I even have a special project I will share during one of the 12 Days of Christmas. You'll have to keep watching to see what "Day" it will be.

'tis the Season {from the farm},
j.

weekend // blizzard

2010-11-18T18:53:00.000-08:00

It's snowing outside and I'm having trouble loading photos onto blogger.

Here's a few sneak peeks from my Saskatoon weekend.........thanks to Christy Riopel's camera. Thanks, girl.

I'll share more when the weather turns nice................but, in the meantime..............

Here are the Make 'n Take layouts I created (& taught) for Nikki Sivils Scrapbooker.

And here is me in action at the Make 'n Take table. (love, love, love this part of the job -- teaching)
And why am I on the phone while I'm working?????? (it's not even my phone)

Come back to see more from the fabulous weekend. Treats, goodies, food, teachers, friends & more....................

cuddling up tonight {from the farm},
j.

Have I Shared These?

2010-11-10T16:29:00.000-08:00

Flying out to Saskatoon, SK this coming weekend to work some Make 'n Take projects for Nikki Sivils Scrapbooker. It's gonna be a BLAST!!!!! I always have so much fun teaching at these conventions with all my long-lost scrapbooking friends. I love meeting new people in this industry and seeing all those people that I haven't seen in days...months.....o.k. -- years (lots of projects created in the meantime). Read all the convention details here.

Now.............sometimes I forget whether I've posted certain layouts or not -- sorry if you've seen these before.

It's nice (some days) to work on a layout where there is no pressure to use a particular product line or company. This LO is an example of just that -- using some of my favourite products from my "gotta use this soon cuz it's so cool & pretty" basket. LOOOOOOVVVVEEEEE the fuzzy iron-on title from donna downey!!!!!! And check out the October Afternoon pattern paper -- totally in love with them right now. Hey....and speaking of 'love' -- love this guy in the photo as well.

And here's a few LOs that I've created recently with some of my favourite mSB stamp sets. Go check out their website AND blog.........I work with one of the best deign teams & the ideas are endless!!!!!

I'll post some photos from the weekend and the Make 'n Take project when I return.

later alligator {from the farm},

November Colours // Prima-luv & a Layout

2010-11-09T12:41:00.000-08:00

I just have to share some love for Prima Marketing today. Here's a layout I created a while ago using some of my favourite Prima products. (not a great photo, sorry).

Take a little peek at all these fabulous products from Prima Marketing Inc. Right now, on their blog, they are showcasing their November Product Picks. Doesn't this look yummy?!!!!?

And for a little twist, they are including a coordinating Colour Swatch to inspire all of us to create projects that coordinate with all their fabulous product picks.

And here are my all-time favourite flowers ever created!!!!! I just discovered them on their website: The Kalanchoe flowers (542511). Love the softness. Love the pearls. Loooooooovvvveeeeee the shape & size of them. Can anyone tell?.......I NEED THEM!!!!!!! They also come in a variety of other colour combinations.......yippeeeeeeee!!!!!! Gotta LOVE them.

Better go........I'm in the mood to scrap w/ Prima now.

happy drooling {from the farm},

good morning sleepy-head

2010-11-05T06:53:00.000-07:00

I wouldn't wish it on anyone ....... getting woken up from your 150lb puppy. We must love her!!!

(Found this photo in my Archives this morning and just had to share it). And, no, I don't usually allow Kayna on our bed, but I didn't have much choice that morning. She bullied me into it.

chuckling {from the farm},
j.

BIG announcement today

2010-11-03T08:17:00.000-07:00

Go head over to this fabulous blog where there's a BIG announcement today ....... where I'm teaching next. It's coming up really quick -- better start gettin' on my game for the crowds of scrappers.

I'll be using this collection from Nikki Sivils Scrapbooker for my project:

Hey................and if there's some product left over (they always send LOTS!!!!!), maybe we should get together when I get home and do a little scrappin' with some Nikki Sivils products!!!!!!! Leave me a comment if you're interested.

smiles {from the farm},

update // with photos

2010-11-02T06:22:00.000-07:00

Thought I'd update you on what's happenin' around here with a few photos I took last month. Love this cute one of Carter -- with the banana sticker on his forehead. It says: "Place Sticker on Forehead. Smile."

One afternoon the kids & I made some "goo" out of cornstarch and water. They all had a blast playing with it & messing up my kitchen.

Here's "my Ricki" with her mom, my sister (Lisa). Isn't she just adoreable. She's so much fun, with a sparkle in her eye. She has such a contagious bubbly personality.

This photo of Asha (age 6) was taken oThanksgiving weekend when my family went to a B&B out in the country. The kids always have a blast playing outside -- and the weather was gorgeous.

My FAMILY. I have two sisters -- I am the middle child {yes....I know what you're thinking; that explains a few things lol}. My older sister (Lisa) has two children; my younger sister (Laura Lee a.k.a. Buffy) has three children. All of the kids (except for Erica a.k.a. Ricki) have someone their age in the family. We are sooooooo lucky to have each other. Our kids are incredibly blessed to have cousins to play with. We are a very tight family with LOTS in common.

One of my favourite photos of Kevin & Laura Lee. Just LOVE the connection they show right here.

So......each Halloween season, our school puts on a pumpkin decorating contest. My kids, of course, think up the craziest ideas for the contest. "Mom, can WE make my pumpkin look like a Carousel Ride?" The the word "we" here is used very loosely, of course, by my six year old. Well...............somehow WE managed to create a Carousel Ride out of a pumpkin ................... and Asha (& I) managed to claim 2nd prize for it.

Carter (& his dad) created an ATV race track out of a huge pumpkin from our patch. They
even had the winning ATV rider crashing into the finish line.

And here is one of my favourite photos of Asha's school costume this year. I say "school costume" because my kids usually change their mind about their costumes about 6 times and then finally decide on one ................ only to change their mind AGAIN when they go out trick or treating. Asha went as a "Monster Bride" for school (see below) and then as the "Mad Hatter: Johnny Depp" for t or t in the evening. I'll show photos of them soon -- they are still on my camera.

Been a busy month. Love it!!!!!

smiling {from the farm},

my little monster

2010-10-31T20:36:00.000-07:00

happy halloween, everyone!!!!!

*jacked up* on sugar tonight {from the farm},
j.

featured

2010-10-30T16:51:00.000-07:00

Go check out the Nikki Sivils Scrapbooker blog today ..................... some of the DT members are being featured today. And "guess who?" is one of them.

There is tons of inspiration from some extremely talented women.

happy halloween {from the farm},
j.

A work-in-progress........ december daily

2010-10-28T08:44:00.000-07:00

thought I'd share a few ideas about my dec. daily..........{for those resting on the couch this morning, browsing the web}.

the album is a 'homemade job' that i created using cardboard, transparencies, plain cardstock, 3 rings, pattern paper & a few extra embellishments. i'm trying to keep it 'simple stupid', but (i'm telling you) that's really hard.

this is my cover. i love the paper (october afternoon) -- you got a sneak peek yesterday, but i added a few buttons, some felt embellies and, of course, my title. i still want to add a little something to it with the date/year on it. still thinking on that one.

here's the first page when you open the cover. i REALLY wanted to use Kraft Cardstock for all the photo pages, so you would get this cool effect of seeing it when you look through the transparencies. but i didn't have enough kraft, so i went with it only on the 1st & 25th pages. love the simpleness of each transparency page.

here's the 2nd transparency page -- simple design, with the biggest impact being the actual transparency print.

these are the photo pages. i'm using the same design that ali edwards is using for her's {although i didn't download her digital ones -- i designed mine myself on word}. my pages go 'horizontal', not vertical like ali's. and they are about 6x8 inches in size. a 4x6 inch photo will fit perfectly on the larger space, with a bit of white showing on each side. the smaller rectangle space on the bottom will be for journaling, pattern paper, ribbon or some extra embellies.

this is my vision for each photo page. very clean & simple. i know........so NOT me. it's good to create out-of-the-box sometimes.

i'm planning on using 'portrait' style photos as well. you may have to turn the album on it's side, but really........not hard to do, right??!?! this way i am not limitted to just taking landscape photos every day. this is a photo from last year that 1. isn't scrapped yet (yikes) and 2. is just for showing you my vision.

here's the dec. 25th page. again it's Kraft Cardstock. love the look it gives when it peeks from behind the transparency.

here's the back cover. some GREAT pattern paper by Crate Paper. love it and ALL their paper. i may add a little tag or sticker here with a 'created by:' piece.

still a huge work-in-progress.

can't wait to show you the finished product.

enjoying the sunshine today {from the farm},

it's snowing // project

2010-10-27T14:20:00.000-07:00

and i couldn't ask for a better day to start working on my "december daily" project -- [totally inspired by the lovely ali edwards].

i started thinking about it last night.

and i'm {almost} done today.

makes me smile...................on a very cold, slushy, wet, snowy day!!!!!!

happy creating {from the farm},
j.

I'm baaaack.....as a designer

2010-10-26T11:15:00.000-07:00

Pop on over to this blog to see who I'm designer for right now...........she's an incredible friend and she's hosting yet another FANTASTIC event!!!!!!

And I used product from three of my favourite companies to design the kit!!!!!!

I'll give you a peek at the kit / project once the event starts in November.

working inside on this rainy day {from the farm},

have a seat

2010-10-18T07:59:00.000-07:00

So incredibly sorry for going m.i.a. for the past few weeks. It's been a busy time {here on the farm} and I think it's safe to say that we are almost done with the harvest.........at least my part of it.

I will share more photos of the past few weeks later, but I did want to share an updated photo of my dining room. Why? Well.........b/c my chairs are finally covered again -- they were sitting on the floor, un-upolstered for about 4 weeks!!!!!! Got them done just in time for the accountant to show up and use one of them {lol}.

Also moved up the side console from the basement that I purchased for about $30 at a second-hand store and painted bright orange. I just needed something to put the milk on when we have company over. I really love the finally look -- when the tables not covered with homework or Asha's drawing papers. I think it just needs an area rug (but that's up for debate in this family). "Rugs do not belong in the dining room"!!!!!! Who does the decorating anyway?!?!?!

enjoy.

come back soon to see some other fun photos from October.

{from the farm},

inspiration // home decor

2010-10-06T05:17:00.000-07:00

go check out my latest post over on the myStampBOX blog today.

Hopefully you'll be inspired.

{from the farm},
j.

one crazy STAMPIN' team

2010-09-29T20:57:00.000-07:00

It's a WELCOME BLOG HOP......

today at myStampBOX and we are thrilled to introduce our new designers to you. Come visit all of our returning design members' blogs and you will be introduced to our new team members one by one. Make sure to leave a comment on each participating blog and another one once you are back here. On the way enjoy our welcoming cards made with our fun myStampBOX stamps.

But first we would like to say a huge THANKS to all the wonderful and talented designers that are leaving our team. A BIG thank you goes out to:

Jing-Jing Nickel
Lynda Lindley
Gudrun Loennecken
Cherie Nymeyer
Tracey Taylor
Leica Forrest
Virginie Delbecq
Monique Liedtke
Ellen Sosnoski

Thank you for your hard work over the last 6 months. You’ll always be a part of the myStampBOX family. Best wishes from all of us in your next endeavors!

Now… let’s find out more about who will be joining the myStampBOX design team. Follow the Blog Hop and visit each of our returning designer blogs. Each team member will be introducing a new member of our team. At each stop, please leave a comment and when the blog is complete, return to the myStampBOX blog and leave one final comment to have a chance to win a myStampBOX stamp set of your very own!

Allison Cope (http://yourmemoriescanada.blogspot.com/)
Jolene Johnston (http://jolenejohnston.blogspot.com/)
Agata Pfister (http://underconstruction-agata.blogspot.com/)
Jill Hildebrand (http://www.fromthefarm-jill.blogspot.com/)
Maryfrances Fabbri (http://maryfrancesfabbri.blogspot.com/)
Eva Pizarro (http://www.evascrap.blogspot.com/)
mSB Blog (http://mystampbox.com/blog/)

We hope you enjoy our little Welcoming Blog Hop!

Don’t forget to leave a comment on each one of the design team blogs and the mSB blog for your chance to win!
Good luck and happy hopping!

Now.......it's is a HUGE priviledge to introduce to you one of the new DT members:

{insert drumroll here}.................

STEPHANIE ACKERMANN

Hello. My name is Stephanie and I’m so excited and thrilled to be part of MyStampBOX. I live in New York with my husband, our 15 year old son, and our cute puppy. I am passionate about scrapbooking, card making and altering anything I can get my hands on. I love to create and often start something not knowing where it will lead me. I love to add Ink, stamps and sewing to much of my creations. I find my day is just not complete if I haven’t spent some time in my Studio.

You can chat with Stephanie if you email her at: stephanie_ackerman@hotmail.com

Here's a little "Congrats"-love I created just for you, Stephanie.

Welcome to the TEAM!!!!!

It'll be soooooo much fun getting to know you better & see you Rock it Out with some mSB stamp sets!!!!

Now…..leave a friendly comment on my blog and then go check out our next new design team member and a fun card at Maryfrances' blog: http://maryfrancesfabbri.blogspot.com/

hopping along with you {from the farm},
j.

in 2 days.......

2010-09-29T20:49:00.000-07:00

Be sure to join all of us on the next myStampBOX Blog Hop ..........

we will be introducing our *new* Design Team & leading you through a LIST of

INSPIRING blogs and websites.

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 1st

See U then!!!!!!

smiles {from the farm},

smiles & pink cockatoos

2010-09-27T11:08:00.000-07:00

love moments like this

.................when your little one suggests you capture her & her buddy on camera.

"Mom, take a picture like this."

love you, Asha.

a bright & sunny day {from the farm},

lotsa' layouts

2010-09-25T19:17:00.000-07:00

Go take a peek over at the Nikki Sivils, Scrapbooker blog today -- it's my day to post.
{I've been having some major FUN with lots of her products!!!!!!!}

And check out my last post on the blog -- showcasing a cute little mini & a fun invitation.
lovin' this DT stuff {from the farm},
j.

fromthefarm

opportunity

little details

{smile}

sand in my shorts

The boat that "Jack" built

to market, to market

cheater, cheater

one photo....and a little good-night

i think we've reached our limit

we scored with the fruit stand

Day 1 // beaches, drives & a sunset

my new backyard

must haves

eleven things

me

need a last minute gift???

layout Show & Tell

aloha......look who's cruisin' now

scrappy animals

new 5 for Christmas

twenty-three & thirty-seven

guessing game

mSB blog & photo happy

waiting for me

leaving on a jet plane

self-timer ME

a little birdie told me

3 cheers for ...

farming 101 // big read // cool photos

random // busy bee

off to school

a few links

a week from today

in case you wanted to know

hot fun in the summertime

quick update & mSB blog post

not complaining

a sister's apology

to those who care

make me smile

don't sniffle at this // mSB Mystery BOX Hop

fun with a box.....tomorrow

him

another quick peek

nothing NERDY about this

extraordinary girl

my mSB Post is up

Swedish e-zine

Inspiration // Weekend

guest designer

signs of Spring

only two

Drawing Inspiration from ........

NEW mSB Team BLOG HOP

remember these // Show & Tell

building up a background

my A-Z Favourites List

two posts

Extra // Extra

for those cuddling little pink bundles today

*new* DT Call......PAY ATTENTION!!!!!!!

hoops & dreams

a little bit of pink icing......

she reads

i love US

Join the LOVE Train

i can show you now

today

a little love

lions & tigers & BEARS?????

Disney // as promised

Top 10 // CHRISTMAS // fun

we celebrate in style

yummies

post-Christmas break

last night & this morning

around my house // Christmas time

cruisin' design

a quick link

new DT Call......PAY ATTENTION!!!!!!!

A work-in-progress........ december daily

it's snowing // project