Are you a ZERO??

[shawsi]

Lisa, I am so sorry. What a hard blow. I hope that he is able to find something again really soon. Were you expecting this? Things are sure tough. You are in my prayers. God bless.
Sandi

[handkl]

Oh Lisa I am so sorry to hear your news. You and your family will be in my thoughts.

[idtwinmom]

Well, I can't say we were expecting this. Chris (DH) has been uneasy for a while now, but with the economy, isn't everyone? However, we were just beginning to breathe easier as just last week the president of the company was in town and said that there were no more layoffs planned. Just last week he said that! Why do they do that!

I just found out: they paid him all his unpaid vacation time along with hours worked and not yet paid, plus are giving him a 2 week severance. Well, that should help some! He had quite a few hours on the books!

[handkl]

What did he do Lisa...if you don't mind me asking?

[idtwinmom]

My husband is a Network Engineer. He specializes in Novell rather than Windows, but he knows a lot of Windows too, just never certified. The worst part is he has had a series of jobs in the last 10 years (well, real close to it!) that have given little credit and even less value to what he does! You would think a tech business understood a tech job, but no..... once again, here we are! And with the jobs he's had, keeping up on or improving his training has been ridiculously hard, making it that much harder to improve his job or get a new one!

OK, I'll stop ranting! All you asked is what he does and listen to me go!

[dinaben99]

Lisa, I'm so sorry to hear the news. You'll get though it, It stinks that they say "no more layoffs" and then pull this stuff, and only give a 2 week severance, but every bit helps! You can check and see if you can use the computers at the library to get your Zero fixes. We'll be praying for you!

[handkl]

Don't feel bad Lisa...I would have asked for an explanation anyway.

[Scrappy Mama]

Oh yes, the library is a very good resource. That's what I did when my husband was unemployed and we needed the internet. Thank you God for libraries!

[idtwinmom]

Yes, I'm sure I'll find a way to connect at least now and then. Don't even know if I'm going to lose the connection though! We have it through the end of March (along with medical insurance - yeah!) and a lot can happen! We'll see! Not counting on anything, just trying to be hopeful!

And you guys are really helping, believe it or not! Just knowing there are friends out there makes it easier to be smiling when he walks into the room!

[ReneT]

How is DH taking it, Lisa? Sometimes men really have a hard time when they lose their job because they are the providers.

[renee s]

Very sorry about your news, Lisa. Will definitely be praying for your family.

[Beachcomber]

Lisa -- so sorry. :hug: I will keep your family in my thoughts and prayers. I hope something turns up for your hubby.

[Beachcomber]

Wendy -- nice to hear from you. Sorry you lost your voice and got pink eye. I lost my voice on my honeymoon, too. Too much excitement and that means you all had a blast at your wedding. Enjoy the rest of your honeymoon and have hubby bring you some tea with honey and lemon to ease your throat.

I had to say goodbye to my car. It is 18 years old and has 184,573 miles on it. It was a good car and it served me well. I donated it to a charity so they came today and towed it away. I should have gotten a picture of it being towed away but I was a little sad watching it leave that I didn't think of it. :( My car has been sitting in my driveway because it doesn't run and hubby didn';t want to spend money to get it fixed.

[idtwinmom]

How is DH taking it, Lisa? Sometimes men really have a hard time when they lose their job because they are the providers.

As to be expected, he's not very happy! He's trying to be strong for me, and I'm trying to be strong for him. I'm sure later this morning we will have a good cry though! All 3 kids are off to school so we will have a good sit down. As we went to bed last night he told me not to let it keep me from sleeping. Of course, I told him the same!

And guess what - we got up this morning to snow! In the land of no snow, we have had so many days of it this winter it's amazing! It's not supposed to last past noon, but the kids sure were excited!

[ReneT]

As to be expected, he's not very happy! He's trying to be strong for me, and I'm trying to be strong for him. I'm sure later this morning we will have a good cry though! All 3 kids are off to school so we will have a good sit down. As we went to bed last night he told me not to let it keep me from sleeping. Of course, I told him the same!

And guess what - we got up this morning to snow! In the land of no snow, we have had so many days of it this winter it's amazing! It's not supposed to last past noon, but the kids sure were excited!

A good cry might do you both some good. I didn't realize Oregon didn't usually get snow. I would think it did.

[idtwinmom]

Well, one of us cried anyway! We have a plan, now we just have to tackle it!

Actually, it depends on where in Oregon you are! The mountains (basically the Eastern third of the state) have elevations that get snow regularly! There are a couple of very large ski resorts! The Valley floor, where we live gets lots of rain and maybe one small snow-fall each winter. Usually it lasts an hour or so, but only if it snows during the night/early AM. If it snows during the day it never even sticks to the ground, it just melts on contact! The kids are probably very disappointed as by recess the snow was pretty much all gone! But for an hour or so, it was pretty watching it fall!

[idtwinmom]

Dorene - where do you get those cool siggie pictures! Love your St. Patties attire!

[ReneT]

Well, one of us cried anyway! We have a plan, now we just have to tackle it!

Actually, it depends on where in Oregon you are! The mountains (basically the Eastern third of the state) have elevations that get snow regularly! There are a couple of very large ski resorts! The Valley floor, where we live gets lots of rain and maybe one small snow-fall each winter. Usually it lasts an hour or so, but only if it snows during the night/early AM. If it snows during the day it never even sticks to the ground, it just melts on contact! The kids are probably very disappointed as by recess the snow was pretty much all gone! But for an hour or so, it was pretty watching it fall!

Well I know you probably feel SOME better with a plan in place, at least I know I always do.

[handkl]

I am glad to hear that you and Chris have talked and have a plan. Having a plan will eliminate some of the fears I am sure you have.

[shawsi]

Aww, Lisa. I feel so bad for you both. I agree though, a plan makes you at least feel like you are doing something about it. I hope that Hubby finds a perfect job very, very soon. Grandma always said that God doesn't close a door that he doesn't open a window. I hope that you find that to be true. Hugs to you. :hug:

[just-pjz]

Lisa--been thinking 'bout you. Sending blessings.
We were watching the nightly news last night and they were talking that though unemployment hitting everywhere, there were some fields doing well. Of the few they mentioned, they did talk about tech jobs and gave a website for job-hunting tech professionals. I don't know how well this suits your husband, but the site is dice.com

[idtwinmom]

Lisa--been thinking 'bout you. Sending blessings.
We were watching the nightly news last night and they were talking that though unemployment hitting everywhere, there were some fields doing well. Of the few they mentioned, they did talk about tech jobs and gave a website for job-hunting tech professionals. I don't know how well this suits your husband, but the site is dice.com

Thank you! Yes, we felt pretty good about that line too! Dice is one that my husband has a resume with. We are very hopeful at the moment, but trying not to feel too hopeful (if you can understand). He does have a list of possibilities, with a kind of, sort of job offer! I don't count on it though as these are people he worked for the last time he got laid off and they still owe us money 3 years later! Long story, not worth telling, but it is still hope!

[Scrappy Mama]

Keep hoping Lisa! We are here right with ya!

[newbienfr]

Sorry to hear about your news Lisa. I hope everything works out for your husband soon.

[Nicole Young]

Hey guys!!! How is everyone??
Lisa, how are things coming for you? I have been thinking about you!!!!

I just got home from DD's Fun Night!! WHEW!! It was fun, but BOY am I glad that is over!!! I was up there from noon until 9pm! I am POOPED!!!!! Sleeping in BIG TIME tomorrow!!!

Hope you guys are doing well!

[idtwinmom]

Well, we are hanging in there! Both of us seem pretty exhausted (he's kind of snoozing on the other end of the couch right now!) And I'm sure that's just the stress affecting us too!

I'm glad you had such a good time at the Fun Night! Enjoy the lie-in tomorrow, you've earned it!

[ReneT]

We've missed you Nicole. I know you're relieved that is behind you! Someone should bring you breakfast in bed this morning! :)

[renee s]

Nicole, what kind of activities do they have at the fun night?



Hey guys!!! How is everyone??
Lisa, how are things coming for you? I have been thinking about you!!!!

I just got home from DD's Fun Night!! WHEW!! It was fun, but BOY am I glad that is over!!! I was up there from noon until 9pm! I am POOPED!!!!! Sleeping in BIG TIME tomorrow!!!

Hope you guys are doing well!

[handkl]

Good morning everyone! Just checking in and saying hi. :wave: Kev and I are doing a big clean of the house today...a big clean. We are even defrosting the deep freeze - my back deck is full of frozen meat. Anyways, glad to hear everyone is okay and he is now standing in front of me...the big clean doesn't include my computer. :rofl::rofl::rofl:

Talk to you later.

[idtwinmom]

Totally laughing, Hannah! Aren't their files on that computer that need cleaning? Or maybe a good scrub (defrag) of the hard drive is in order! :lol:

[shawsi]

That is so funny, Hannah. Sounds like things here a bit. It is SO hard to pass by this machine and not peek into DSP, isn't it. I am taking a break from life and doing my sneak peak right now. Then I will get back to it.

Wonder how our newlyweds are doing? Did you all see the warnings to the spring breakers about Mexico this week?

Sandi

[Beachcomber]

Hello All!

Lisa -- my friend made my siggys.

Nicole -- nice to see you back. I'm glad fun night went well. Did you get any pictures?

Hannah -- have fun cleaning. :lol:

Sandi -- I did see on the news the warnings about Mexico for spring breakers.

I spent last week shoveling the stuff from our spare bedroom that was in our living and dining rooms into the garage so we could have the boy's Cub Scouts den meeting at our house on Thursday night. Whew I am exhausted. Now I have to retrieve the stuff so I can put the things back into our spare bedroom. Oy! We just finished painting the room the weekend before so I hadn't had time to start putting the stuff back when hubby says he wants to have the den meeting at our house. Grrrr.......Men. :( At least the living and dining rooms look better without all of the stuff in it. :lol:

[ReneT]

I need to defrag my computer too, I think. Everything keeps "not responding". All programs, not just the internet. It's so annoying, espcially when I'm trying to upload a layout and I've gotten most of the credit links in there and then it quits and I have to start all over! :(

I heard about Mexico too. There were problems in Cancun and Alcapulco. Which town is Wendy in? Our cruise stops in Mexico this summer, so I called the travel agent, but she said we should be OK in Cozumel. But still, it makes me nervous now.

[Nicole Young]

Ok, I am out of the loop, what is going on in Mexico?? Why do I not know this????

LOL Hannah, sounds like a fun day of CLEANING!!! EEEKKKK I hate those "big clean" days but I love the way the house feels when its done...well WHEN IT WAS done that ONE time that I deep cleaned!!! Boy I need to do that soon!!! It majorly needs some cleaning!!!

[Nicole Young]

Ohhh fun night...well its.....a giant bounce house shaped like a castle, a clown that does balloon animals, teachers getting pies thrown at them, ring toss, plinko, bingo, duck pond, limbo, hula hoops, etc....and lots of food, lots of crazy kids, lot of prizes and LOTS OF TIRED VOLUNTEERS!!! LOL we were there cleaning up afterwards til way late!!! SO I did some MAJOR sleeping in (10am!!!! I havent slept that long in YEARS) I was sooooo tired!!! It was a long week anyway!!! But this just added!!! It was tons of fun though...and I am HOPING that some other moms and dads got pics cuz I DIDNT!!!

[Nicole Young]

Oh oh did I tell you guys that I got interview by The Daily Scrapper?? Be sure to go check it out if you have time!!!

http://www.thedailyscrapper.com/2009/issue04/Interview-nicoleyoung1.html

[ReneT]

Wow Nicole, that's so exciting for you! I'm doing a happy dance for you right now!

In Mexico the drug cartels are causing lots of problems, especially in the border town. The US government is advising people not to go to Mexico right now, especially border towns like Juarez, etc.

[ReneT]

Nicole, I just read the interview. Great job. I love how you talked about DSP as being a place for support and friendship, not just a scrapbooking website.

[idtwinmom]

Wow! I didn't know about Mexico either! I don't think I've seen the news in 2 or 3 days!

Nicole - read your interview! Congrats!

[handkl]

WOW!!! Congrats Nicole!!!!

So, I we are no where near done the big clean...but hubby had had enough and is now over the man cave (neighbour's garage). So I have been able to do my IOTW layout (of course, I left it til the last minute :doh:) and I finally updated my Flair card. :yahoo:

[handkl]

Sorry, not only did update my flair card, I completely redid it.

[dinaben99]

congrats on the interview Nicole, it's very nice

[ReneT]

Sorry, not only did update my flair card, I completely redid it.

Great job. I love your boys flair!

[shawsi]

Nicole, the interview was so good. I left you a note on your blog. It is great that they asked about your faith. Is it a Christian based site?

Hannah, I need to update my flair card too. I am afraid that it is going to be a hassle. Glad hubby let you have a breather. Man-cave? giggle...cute.

Rene, I don't think she said what town, did she? Hope she is having the time of her life and safe and sound. How long was she staying? It will be a week soon.

[ReneT]

Nicole, the interview was so good. I left you a note on your blog. It is great that they asked about your faith. Is it a Christian based site?

Hannah, I need to update my flair card too. I am afraid that it is going to be a hassle. Glad hubby let you have a breather. Man-cave? giggle...cute.

Rene, I don't think she said what town, did she? Hope she is having the time of her life and safe and sound. How long was she staying? It will be a week soon.

I don't know if she said what town. All I knew was Mexico and I don't know when she'll be back. The wedding was a week ago today.

[idtwinmom]

Hannah - Love the Flair redo! Maybe I will get time for that later this week!

Rene - Didn't Wendy say something about Cancun or was that my imagination. Cozumel is a beautiful island! (DH and I cruised for our honeymoon!) We did a horseback ride there - lots of fun!

[ReneT]

Hannah - Love the Flair redo! Maybe I will get time for that later this week!

Rene - Didn't Wendy say something about Cancun or was that my imagination. Cozumel is a beautiful island! (DH and I cruised for our honeymoon!) We did a horseback ride there - lots of fun!

Maybe she did say Cancun. I don't know for sure. I love horseback riding, but not the girls, so we'll do other things. We plan on going to the Mayan Ruins in Cozumel. Emily and I will parasail and Gary and Lindsey will do something called "Snuba" (a cross between scuba and snorkeling) in Grand Cayman. It's still 3 1/2 months away, but it will go fast once we get busy at work in April and May.

[jemtred]

Hello everyone - sorry to be absent for so long but I have been checking in just not had time to join in! Glad everything is Ok with you all (Lisa - hope it all sorts out and another job comes along soon. I am provider in our house so the thought of a job loss terrifies me).
Surely the drug cartels wouldn't be daft enough to mess with Wendy!! She would have tham laughin and sitting down fo r a beer while she teaches them the finer points of drop shadows!!
Glad your fun day went well Nicole - these things are exhausting but fun. I must be the only teacher in school who loves the sports days and galas.
My week has been pretty awful - will fill you in when I get the good news in a week or so (but this is the 3rd week I have heard that!). Its not life threatening or anything like that but it is major hassle and requiring a lot from my diminished supply of patience!! Sure we will get our happy ending one day.
I even found a couple of hours to do some scrapping - OK I stayed up to midnight which is not looking such a great idea today with a toddler in the house and a LOT of marking to do. I just had to do my Odds n Ends challenge dedicated Freebie girl that I am.

[just-pjz]

Jemma! Surely the drug cartels wouldn't be daft enough to mess with Wendy!! She would have tham laughin and sitting down fo r a beer while she teaches them the finer points of drop shadows!!
:rofl::rofl::rofl::rofl::rofl::rofl::rofl::rofl::r ofl::rofl::rofl:
I can just see this now!

Love the new flair, Hannah....mine still remains un-updated.

Nicole! Congrats on the interview! Wonderful read. DSP really is more like a hang-out where people scrap instead of a scrapsite where people hang-out to me, and I felt that in your responses.

May not be posting much as I have begun the brain-reeling that is DET.:eek:

Have a great day (week!)

Happy March!

[Nicole Young]

Hey guys!!!! Well I agree with Jemma, Rene you can take those drug cartel guys!!! You can reform them!!! LOL Teach them some scrapbooking! That'll do it!!!!

Shawsi, thanks! Its not a Christian based site, so it was surprising to me that they asked, but I was glad that they did!

Ok...I am going to go lay down! The meds I am taking for my skin (seeing a dermatologist this week!) Are making my stomach hurt! UUGHHHH But wanted to check in and say hi!

[shawsi]

Lisa - the horseback ride seems very romantic! Bet it was a great honeymoon.

Nicole - Hope you feel better. Being an exhausted person with a belly ache doesn't seem fun.

Jemma - I am going to show my ignorance in matters of geography...where is Malawi? What do you teach?

Rene - sounds like you are in for a great vacation. We have made no plans, but I hope to go somewhere fun...it will probably be stateside though. I hope it involves an ocean. Since DS lives in Colorado, I would say will will be mountains.
Sandi

[handkl]

May not be posting much as I have begun the brain-reeling that is DET.:eek:

Don't get all stressed out by the DET competition stuff...just design your layout and have fun doing it. If you go on to the next round awesome! And if not, oh well, try again next time. Remember scrapbooking is suppose to be fun! Stepping off the soapbox now...

[Beachcomber]

Hello Ladies. It is raining here. We are having a quiet Sunday. Just hanging out.

Nicole -- I hope your tummy feels better soon. :hug: Congrats again on the interview.

Just Pjz -- I agree with Hannah don't get stressed out about DET. Good luck!

Hannah -- nice job on your flair card. :)

[handkl]

No more stress for me...DET layout done!

Nicole, I hope you feel better soon.

Still haven't heard from Wendy yet huh? Well let's think positive...she is having so much fun on her honeymoon that she has forgotten all about checking in with us.

[ReneT]

No more stress for me...DET layout done!

Nicole, I hope you feel better soon.

Still haven't heard from Wendy yet huh? Well let's think positive...she is having so much fun on her honeymoon that she has forgotten all about checking in with us.

Yay for you! :yippee: Are you happy with it?

[idtwinmom]

Hello everyone - sorry to be absent for so long but I have been checking in just not had time to join in! Glad everything is Ok with you all (Lisa - hope it all sorts out and another job comes along soon. I am provider in our house so the thought of a job loss terrifies me).
Surely the drug cartels wouldn't be daft enough to mess with Wendy!! She would have tham laughin and sitting down fo r a beer while she teaches them the finer points of drop shadows!!
Glad your fun day went well Nicole - these things are exhausting but fun. I must be the only teacher in school who loves the sports days and galas.
My week has been pretty awful - will fill you in when I get the good news in a week or so (but this is the 3rd week I have heard that!). Its not life threatening or anything like that but it is major hassle and requiring a lot from my diminished supply of patience!! Sure we will get our happy ending one day.
I even found a couple of hours to do some scrapping - OK I stayed up to midnight which is not looking such a great idea today with a toddler in the house and a LOT of marking to do. I just had to do my Odds n Ends challenge dedicated Freebie girl that I am.

And while we wait to here from Wendy - you get to make us laugh! Yeah! you got to scrap!

[handkl]

Yay for you! :yippee: Are you happy with it?

Yep! Already uploaded.

[ReneT]

Yep! Already uploaded.

I just went to look at it. Great job! I like your grouping of elements on the corner of the journaling paper.

[handkl]

Why thank you Rene.

[handkl]

I thought of some names - pleaes let me know whatca think.

1. Scrappy Canadian
2. Scrappin' Canadian
3. Scrappin' Mummy of Two

If you guys can think of something better let me know.

[jemtred]

I thought of some names - pleaes let me know whatca think.

1. Scrappy Canadian
2. Scrappin' Canadian
3. Scrappin' Mummy of Two

If you guys can think of something better let me know.

Don't know if its any better but how about Scrap Happy Hannah?

[jemtred]

Hey Nicole - just read your interview which was great. Nice to see DSP on The Daily Scrapper.
I am now joining in on the CC challenge - you dont need to make LOs for this!! And it made me realise how selfish I am for not commenting much so if you all suddenly get a flourish of comments from me don't panic!

[wndyeliza]

Just checking in with you all!! How are you? I am enjoying my time down here. Every morning I download the previous days pics into the computer There are so many! This may turn in to one of those hard cover books when its all said and done!
I won't tell you what the weather is like, cause you colder weather folks are really nice and I don't want to tick you off!
Hannah - I like Jemma's idea for your name. When do you make the final selection?
Rene - Hanging in there? Getting lots of massages and pedicures?
Lisa - How are the kiddo's my friend? And just how many mentoree's do you have right now? I would like to know more about that program when we get a chance to chat.
Hi Nicole! - I don't know what you did over the weekend...I was very naughty and didn't go back to check. But I am sure you had fun! You always do! I know you have heard this from me before, but your kits have really kicked it up a notch. Absolutely wonderful.
To the rest of the Zero's as I just said, I was very naughty and I haven't checked many of the previous pages. So this is for you- HELLO!

[idtwinmom]

Jemma - love your name for Hannah! (Hannah - I think Scrap Happy Hannah is fab!)

Yeah! We now know that our Miss Wendy is fine and happy, just a very busy new Mrs.!

[ReneT]

I thought of some names - pleaes let me know whatca think.

1. Scrappy Canadian
2. Scrappin' Canadian
3. Scrappin' Mummy of Two

If you guys can think of something better let me know.

You didn't like the ones I picked out for you previously? :cry::cry:

[ReneT]

Just checking in with you all!! How are you? I am enjoying my time down here. Every morning I download the previous days pics into the computer There are so many! This may turn in to one of those hard cover books when its all said and done!
I won't tell you what the weather is like, cause you colder weather folks are really nice and I don't want to tick you off!
Hannah - I like Jemma's idea for your name. When do you make the final selection?
Rene - Hanging in there? Getting lots of massages and pedicures?
Lisa - How are the kiddo's my friend? And just how many mentoree's do you have right now? I would like to know more about that program when we get a chance to chat.
Hi Nicole! - I don't know what you did over the weekend...I was very naughty and didn't go back to check. But I am sure you had fun! You always do! I know you have heard this from me before, but your kits have really kicked it up a notch. Absolutely wonderful.
To the rest of the Zero's as I just said, I was very naughty and I haven't checked many of the previous pages. So this is for you- HELLO!

Good to hear from you Wendy! We've all been thinking about you and hoping you were OK due to all the violence in Mexico lately. When do you come home?

No pedis or massages this week. Haven't heard from DS, which is quite weird considering his rent was due 2 days ago. But I am excited to get out of town Thursday thru Saturday. I am going to Brownwood TX to see my nephew who is in town visiting his mom. He lives in Canada. Yay.

[shawsi]

You have lots of fun Rene.

Wendy...don't you worry about checking...after all....this IS your honeymoon. You aren't supposed to be worried about us for Pete's sake. BUT....we are very glad to hear you are ok. I started to write that I bet you are all tan and everything...but since you are from sunny California...you don't need to go there to get a tan like us northerners. I am not ticked....we are freezing by the way....but I am envious. No early spring here this year.

Hannah...nothing creative from here, but you have had some great suggestions. Congrats on this milestone.

Lisa....keep hangin in there. Is DH doing ok? I just saw a human interest story on our local channel where a couple started making ballet bars. They are now shipping them all over the world. Maybe there is something like that you could do.

Hope everyone is having a great night.

[handkl]

You didn't like the ones I picked out for you previously? :cry::cry:

What did you suggest for me previously?

What do you guys think of Happily Scrappin' Hannah Banana?

[handkl]

Good to hear from you Wendy.

[idtwinmom]

You have lots of fun Rene.

Wendy...don't you worry about checking...after all....this IS your honeymoon. You aren't supposed to be worried about us for Pete's sake. BUT....we are very glad to hear you are ok. I started to write that I bet you are all tan and everything...but since you are from sunny California...you don't need to go there to get a tan like us northerners. I am not ticked....we are freezing by the way....but I am envious. No early spring here this year.

Hannah...nothing creative from here, but you have had some great suggestions. Congrats on this milestone.

Lisa....keep hangin in there. Is DH doing ok? I just saw a human interest story on our local channel where a couple started making ballet bars. They are now shipping them all over the world. Maybe there is something like that you could do.

Hope everyone is having a great night.

And what would I do without friends like you! He has a couple of job opportunities, but both would mean moving. (Not against that, it just might be hard to sell the house!) One we are really laughing at and don't know if it could be a serious consideration. It's the job he quit when we moved to Oregon! There have been some changes so we don't know if they would even consider him, but he's going to call! Don't hold your breath on that one though!

[idtwinmom]

What did you suggest for me previously?

What do you guys think of Happily Scrappin' Hannah Banana?

Totally fun! OK, the Hannah Banana might be a little to much like Hannah Montana! But love the Happily Scrappin' Hannah part! It's a tough choice isn't it!

[handkl]

I'm going to reach the next milstone before I decide on this one. lol!

[ReneT]

Hannah, I suggested Hannah Banana or Hannah Rozannadanna. :rofl::rofl::rofl:

[Kathleen]

Hannah Rozannadanna

That's REALLY funny!!

[Nicole Young]

Hey guys! Poppin in to say hi before I am off to some appts today! I will be back later and HOPEFULLY working, but we'll see!!! LOL I am having too much fun PLAYING and am not getting work done!!!
But Hannah you inspired me! I spent 1 1/2 hours scrubbing my refridgerator out yesterday! It was bad!!!!! Its sparkling clean now!! But this was AFTER I spilled an open can of orange pop (blaming DD for that one!) all over the inside of my fridge AFTER i had gotten the shelves below it cleaned!!! i had to start over!!!!
AND then I knocked my bottle of pop off the counter during this cleaning binge and the cap wasnt on totally so it literally EXPLODED all over my kitchen!!! I had pop waist high on the walls, all over the floor and on every hard surface I could see!!! I had DD and DS "play with bubbles" and scrub the floor and walls. They had fun!!! (Dont you love kids who dont realize this is WORK!!!!)

[ReneT]

Hey guys! Poppin in to say hi before I am off to some appts today! I will be back later and HOPEFULLY working, but we'll see!!! LOL I am having too much fun PLAYING and am not getting work done!!!
But Hannah you inspired me! I spent 1 1/2 hours scrubbing my refridgerator out yesterday! It was bad!!!!! Its sparkling clean now!! But this was AFTER I spilled an open can of orange pop (blaming DD for that one!) all over the inside of my fridge AFTER i had gotten the shelves below it cleaned!!! i had to start over!!!!
AND then I knocked my bottle of pop off the counter during this cleaning binge and the cap wasnt on totally so it literally EXPLODED all over my kitchen!!! I had pop waist high on the walls, all over the floor and on every hard surface I could see!!! I had DD and DS "play with bubbles" and scrub the floor and walls. They had fun!!! (Dont you love kids who dont realize this is WORK!!!!)

What a creative mom you are! :) Funny you cleaned your frig yesterday because I was just thinking last night that I need to do that before my sister and DBIL come to visit later this month.

[ReneT]

I'm getting so excited. Tomorrow I go to Brownwood to see my fav nephew. I haven't seen him since my dad's funeral 3 years ago. He lives in Canada, but is in Brownwood visiting my sister, so I'm going down there to see him and pick up a family tree my mom did long ago and to pick my sister's brain about some photo in my parents' photo albums for my heritage pages. Yay!

[handkl]

Hope you have a blast Rene!!!

Nicole - Isn't it great when they want to help? Foxy loves to vacuum.

[idtwinmom]

Hey guys! Poppin in to say hi before I am off to some appts today! I will be back later and HOPEFULLY working, but we'll see!!! LOL I am having too much fun PLAYING and am not getting work done!!!
But Hannah you inspired me! I spent 1 1/2 hours scrubbing my refridgerator out yesterday! It was bad!!!!! Its sparkling clean now!! But this was AFTER I spilled an open can of orange pop (blaming DD for that one!) all over the inside of my fridge AFTER i had gotten the shelves below it cleaned!!! i had to start over!!!!
AND then I knocked my bottle of pop off the counter during this cleaning binge and the cap wasnt on totally so it literally EXPLODED all over my kitchen!!! I had pop waist high on the walls, all over the floor and on every hard surface I could see!!! I had DD and DS "play with bubbles" and scrub the floor and walls. They had fun!!! (Dont you love kids who dont realize this is WORK!!!!)

Yep! Gotta love the fact they ask for 'chores'. Since I've got the boys home sick again, maybe that's what I should have them doing! :lol::lol::lol:

[renee s]

Nicole- just saw your latest kit- so cute! Got a curiousity question. Is there a special meaning to the feather that you have been including in several of your latest kits?

[Nicole Young]

Akkkkkk I was halfway through my post and the computer ate it!!!!

LOL No Renee, the feathers arent on purpose, just like them right now I guess!!! !LOL

And now...off to church...then home to watch LOST!!!!!! I AM SOOOOOOOOO Excited about tonights episode!!! Kate and Sawyer, Jin and Sun, Juliet and Jack will see each other for the first time in days/years!!!! SOOOOOO exciting!!!

[renee s]

I love the feathers too, Nicole. Was just curious. :)

[wndyeliza]

:wave: Hola!
There are so many shows that I haven't watched. LOST is on down here but in Spanish without subtitles. There is an American TV network on the satellite, but I am not that much into Rachel Ray, Oprah, or Montel. I have been able to see several episodes of House (Dr. House here). I would really like to see Dr. Who, but I fear that one is also dubbed. (sighs...considers buying Rosetta Stone, Spanish edition)
We went to Chitizen Itza yesterday, I'll see if the internet here will allow me to upload a photo or two in a timely fashion. (I put my laptop into my backpack and walk about 3/4 of a mile to the Starbucks and sit on the patio and get on the internet.) My jaw literally dropped when I walked into the compound.
One of my wedding gifts was a $50.00 gift certificate to the Store here! Nicole...your designing some off the hook stuff here...I can't spend all the GC on you, can I?...:think: hummm.....or CAN I?....:rofl:
I miss you all...well, in that I can't just sign on any old time I want to and check in. See you all soon!

[handkl]

Hey Wendy...can't wait to see the pics!!

Lisa, how are the kids doing today?

[idtwinmom]

The kids seem a little better. No fevers yet, but poor DS2 is now sounding pretty stuffy! His has been the lightest case so far this time (suppose that is deserved as he was the sickest last time!)

Wendy - glad you are having a grand time! Enjoy because it's almost over! Have fun with the GC, you have all those wedding and honeymoon pics so you'll have lots to work with too!

[ReneT]

Glad the kids are better today Lisa and not feeling too horrible.

Hi Wendy! We've been missing you. Glad you are having fun and can't wait to see the photos.

I tried to take some photos of my great niece in the One Act Play rehearsal last night, but the stage was dark. So worked, some didn't. I need to learn more about taking photos in the dark.

[idtwinmom]

Would you all like some upbeat news? (I know I've been a bit of a downer the last week)! DH saw a job listing for the business he quit when we moved from Alaska to Oregon. At first he kind of joked, but I urged him to give the gal a call. She would undoubtedly remember him! Well, he called today and she wants his resume right away! This could be a dream come true for us! Ever since we left I have wanted to go back, and although he didn't at first, DH has learned to want to go back too! I'm sooooo excited and nervous and all the other stuff that goes with this! Say prayers guys, because this would be just what we need!

[Kathleen]

Good luck, Lisa!!

[shawsi]

Oh Lisa, that is great news. I sure hope and pray all works out for you. Where in Alaska would you be? Come to think of it, I wouldn't know if you told me. From everyone that I know who has ever been, it is beautiful. DS is going this summer...in the wilderness somewhere. Makes me a bit nervous. He is excited though.
Anyway...hope you hear something very very soon.

Glad to hear from you Wendy. Sounds like you are having one heck of a honeymoon!

Rene...hope you are enjoying your family time. Can't wait to see your new vintage photos. I have trouble taking pictures in dark places also. Wedding receptions are so hard usually.

I finally got some layouts done. These are the first in a while. Thank goodness for challenges. They keep me motivated.

[handkl]

That is awesome news Lisa...sending you lots of love and luck!

[renee s]

Wow- Alaska. I have cousins that live there. Are you originally from Alaska?

[jemtred]

That sounds really exciting! but a little cold?? I may be from the UK originally but my African home is just the right temp for me these days.
Good to hear Wendy is having fun! Imagine walking all that way with her laptop just to say Hi! She must really miss us...

[idtwinmom]

Oh Lisa, that is great news. I sure hope and pray all works out for you. Where in Alaska would you be? Come to think of it, I wouldn't know if you told me. From everyone that I know who has ever been, it is beautiful. DS is going this summer...in the wilderness somewhere. Makes me a bit nervous. He is excited though.
Anyway...hope you hear something very very soon.

Glad to hear from you Wendy. Sounds like you are having one heck of a honeymoon!

Rene...hope you are enjoying your family time. Can't wait to see your new vintage photos. I have trouble taking pictures in dark places also. Wedding receptions are so hard usually.

I finally got some layouts done. These are the first in a while. Thank goodness for challenges. They keep me motivated.

The Alaska Wilderness is a fun place to be! Yes, there can be dangers, but for the most part, it's pretty harmless! Many of the TV shows you see really play up the scary aspect of it and it's really not that bad! You can be in the "wilderness" and still be within driving distance of pretty substantial villages with people, Drs, and other amenities depending on where you are really going. And then you can be far enough out to require a float plane to get in and out. Its really a fun place!

We won't be in the wilderness of course. The work is mostly in Anchorage. So far, Chris has found 4 possible jobs there in just the last 2 days! I'm feeling very optimistic that we will get to go home soon. Of course, the details of getting there will have to be worked out. And I would not want to remove the boys from school, so me and the kids would most likely stay here until June. But to go home! It makes me smile and my heart flutters every time I think of it!

[idtwinmom]

Wow- Alaska. I have cousins that live there. Are you originally from Alaska?

My husband was born and raised in Sitka, Alaska (down in the panhandle and almost in Canada more than Alaska). I lived there for almost 17 years and really consider it home!

Where in Alaska are they?

Love your 'I'm Broke' flair! Is it in the member gallery, cause I didn't see it!

[shawsi]

The Alaska Wilderness is a fun place to be! Yes, there can be dangers, but for the most part, it's pretty harmless! Many of the TV shows you see really play up the scary aspect of it and it's really not that bad! You can be in the "wilderness" and still be within driving distance of pretty substantial villages with people, Drs, and other amenities depending on where you are really going. And then you can be far enough out to require a float plane to get in and out. Its really a fun place!

We won't be in the wilderness of course. The work is mostly in Anchorage. So far, Chris has found 4 possible jobs there in just the last 2 days! I'm feeling very optimistic that we will get to go home soon. Of course, the details of getting there will have to be worked out. And I would not want to remove the boys from school, so me and the kids would most likely stay here until June. But to go home! It makes me smile and my heart flutters every time I think of it!

So you are an Alaskan girl born and raised? Thank you for your reply...you make me feel better. He is being flown in to a gold claim as I understand it. Friends own it and go there often, so I try not to worry. I don't know if it is high altitude or not, but if it is, he is used to it from living in Denver. Most of his work is in the mountains.

I am so excited for you. Do you have a lot of family up there? Did you come south for your husband's job? Is he from there too? I keep you in my prayers that one of those jobs pans out...actually how about all of them and he gets to pick. That sounds good, huh?

Sandi:pray:

Edit: Can you tell I hadn't read your reply to Rene? Sorry. Disregard all the questions you already answered. Silly me.

[idtwinmom]

So you are an Alaskan girl born and raised? Thank you for your reply...you make me feel better. He is being flown in to a gold claim as I understand it. Friends own it and go there often, so I try not to worry. I don't know if it is high altitude or not, but if it is, he is used to it from living in Denver. Most of his work is in the mountains.

I am so excited for you. Do you have a lot of family up there? Did you come south for your husband's job? Is he from there too? I keep you in my prayers that one of those jobs pans out...actually how about all of them and he gets to pick. That sounds good, huh?

Sandi:pray:

Edit: Can you tell I hadn't read your reply to Rene? Sorry. Disregard all the questions you already answered. Silly me.

:lol: I thought I had answered some of those! If you can find out where the gold mine is, I can give you an idea of how much to worry about! Also, will they have their own plane, or do they count on someone bringing in supplies and such?

[shawsi]

:lol: I thought I had answered some of those! If you can find out where the gold mine is, I can give you an idea of how much to worry about! Also, will they have their own plane, or do they count on someone bringing in supplies and such?
They are flying in with their supplies. There is no phone service from what I gathererd. A pilot has been hired to fly them in and come back and get them. When he showed me on the map, it seemed like they were flying into Anchorage, but I might be wrong. I do know they will have quite a hike into the cabin. Whoever owns the cabin has buried some kind of transportation, but if it doesn't start or if someone has taken it, they will have to haul everything in.

It doesn't give a mom warm fuzzies, even if he is 29.

Did you guys hear that the Mexican president has Americans on lock down? Hope Wendy and her hubby are ok.
Sandi

[idtwinmom]

Well, I think Wendy and her DH should be headed back if not home! This was the final weekend. So hopefully they got out OK, seems like her notes were pretty chipper to have seen any of the bad stuff.

Well, if you can get him to tell you the nearest town, let me know. And they must have some sort of radio or something for communications. No one is silly enough to be without anything! The "transportation" is probably a 4-wheeler. Very common up there! And yes - he has to go through Anchorage to get any where else. Even most of the Juneau flights back track from Anchorage, unless it's one of the few directs from Seattle.

[jemtred]

You will all know how much I enjoy living in a third world country but I am now entering my 38th hour without water!! Apparently it is going to be off for another 24 hours while they fix the electricity supply - the funny thing being this is the 1st 48 hours we have spent without a power cut in about 4 weeks:rofl:... Still, you don't need water to cool the wine and they have cancelled school tomorrow :yahoo::yahoo::yahoo: Obviously the teachers still have to go because we dont EVER use the toilet...:think: maybe I will be able to sneak in my laptop and do some scrapping....:D

[shawsi]

Well, I think Wendy and her DH should be headed back if not home! This was the final weekend. So hopefully they got out OK, seems like her notes were pretty chipper to have seen any of the bad stuff.

Well, if you can get him to tell you the nearest town, let me know. And they must have some sort of radio or something for communications. No one is silly enough to be without anything! The "transportation" is probably a 4-wheeler. Very common up there! And yes - he has to go through Anchorage to get any where else. Even most of the Juneau flights back track from Anchorage, unless it's one of the few directs from Seattle.

LOL...I sent him a note and asked my questions. He answered and at the bottom wrote,"What caused all of this?" I told him until he takes a wife, it is my job! They have rented a satellite phone. He is not sure of the closest town, but they are flying into Anchorage. They are going July 7 thru the 17......AND if there is an emergency they will use the phone. So there you go. I don't know too much else, do I? I will get more out of him when I talk to him. He was probably at work.

Thanks
Sandi

[shawsi]

You will all know how much I enjoy living in a third world country but I am now entering my 38th hour without water!! Apparently it is going to be off for another 24 hours while they fix the electricity supply - the funny thing being this is the 1st 48 hours we have spent without a power cut in about 4 weeks:rofl:... Still, you don't need water to cool the wine and they have cancelled school tomorrow :yahoo::yahoo::yahoo: Obviously the teachers still have to go because we dont EVER use the toilet...:think: maybe I will be able to sneak in my laptop and do some scrapping....:D

Jemma,
You have to work with no water? Do you have a teachers' union? Bless your heart. Guess that is the difference of being in a 3rd world country. Sheltered me...I have never been out of the states. I can't imagine. I admire you.
Sandi

[jemtred]

Seriously its not really a problem as it is usually off for only a few hours and we are all used to it. Living without water is a lot trickier - I washed in a bucket today! We also collected rainwater in buckets and in Jack's paddling pool. Most of the time my life is easy although cheese and wine are alarmingly expensive! one day i will confess to the amount of home help I get and then you will all stop feeling sorry for my working hours (6:30am to 4:00 pm except on a Fri)! I teach in an international school so we have seriously good facilities - far better than the public(government) school I was used to in the UK. I love it here and could never return to the 1st world

[shawsi]

Seriously its not really a problem as it is usually off for only a few hours and we are all used to it. Living without water is a lot trickier - I washed in a bucket today! We also collected rainwater in buckets and in Jack's paddling pool. Most of the time my life is easy although cheese and wine are alarmingly expensive! one day i will confess to the amount of home help I get and then you will all stop feeling sorry for my working hours (6:30am to 4:00 pm except on a Fri)! I teach in an international school so we have seriously good facilities - far better than the public(government) school I was used to in the UK. I love it here and could never return to the 1st world

Being a teacher here in the states, I am very interested. Is there a language barrier teaching in an International School, or do you all teach in English. So do you teach longer in the day to enable you to have a 4 day week? What ages do you teach?
Are your days longer to save on energy, as we have considered it here. Who governs your school? Are there standards that you are accountable for? Sorry there are so many questions...I really am interested.

[idtwinmom]

LOL...I sent him a note and asked my questions. He answered and at the bottom wrote,"What caused all of this?" I told him until he takes a wife, it is my job! They have rented a satellite phone. He is not sure of the closest town, but they are flying into Anchorage. They are going July 7 thru the 17......AND if there is an emergency they will use the phone. So there you go. I don't know too much else, do I? I will get more out of him when I talk to him. He was probably at work.

Thanks
Sandi

Well, as soon as you find out how they are leaving Anchorage and what direction they are going, I can give you a better idea! Sat phones work very well, it's just how much time would it take for help to arrive that could be at issue. Although gold mining is done in a lot of that country, look up Nome Alaska as many of the working mines are often in that region!

Jemma,
You have to work with no water? Do you have a teachers' union? Bless your heart. Guess that is the difference of being in a 3rd world country. Sheltered me...I have never been out of the states. I can't imagine. I admire you.
Sandi

One thing I think of all the time is how sheltered we are here in the US. Even though we have poverty, we rarely see it, and most of those are even so much better off than some other countries that we have no clue! I mean, I would never have thought of you living without water. I have lived with out running water though! It's not uncommon in Alaska as there are many places where the ground water is just flat unusable! We still had electricity and heat, just had to lug in water and use an outhouse (which we had to have pumped regularly as it went into a barrel, not the ground!)

Seriously its not really a problem as it is usually off for only a few hours and we are all used to it. Living without water is a lot trickier - I washed in a bucket today! We also collected rainwater in buckets and in Jack's paddling pool. Most of the time my life is easy although cheese and wine are alarmingly expensive! one day i will confess to the amount of home help I get and then you will all stop feeling sorry for my working hours (6:30am to 4:00 pm except on a Fri)! I teach in an international school so we have seriously good facilities - far better than the public(government) school I was used to in the UK. I love it here and could never return to the 1st world

Those are some pretty long hours, but I've known worse. I am surprised though if they have no bathroom use with no water that they would expect you to come to work.

Being a teacher here in the states, I am very interested. Is there a language barrier teaching in an International School, or do you all teach in English. So do you teach longer in the day to enable you to have a 4 day week? What ages do you teach?
Are your days longer to save on energy, as we have considered it here. Who governs your school? Are there standards that you are accountable for? Sorry there are so many questions...I really am interested.

These are all super questions! Can't wait to read the answers!

[idtwinmom]

Hey - Congrats to all those Zeroes that moved on in the DET! I saw quite a few of you listed!!!!!!!!!

[jemtred]

Well here I am at an almost quiet school and the irony of it is that the water came back about 2 hours ago but school had already been cancelled! Teachers are expected to rough it a little more that the pupils and a lot of us live at school or very close (I live next door) so the bathroom is less of an issue for us. We have buckets or water around for hand washing and emergency flushing (sorry if too graphic!).

[ReneT]

Well here I am at an almost quiet school and the irony of it is that the water came back about 2 hours ago but school had already been cancelled! Teachers are expected to rough it a little more that the pupils and a lot of us live at school or very close (I live next door) so the bathroom is less of an issue for us. We have buckets or water around for hand washing and emergency flushing (sorry if too graphic!).

Well, I'm glad you have water, even though you have no students! :)

[jemtred]

Being a teacher here in the states, I am very interested. Is there a language barrier teaching in an International School, or do you all teach in English. So do you teach longer in the day to enable you to have a 4 day week? What ages do you teach?
Are your days longer to save on energy, as we have considered it here. Who governs your school? Are there standards that you are accountable for? Sorry there are so many questions...I really am interested.

We teach in English as this is an International school and we follow the British Curriculum and take the British exams. Malawi was a British colony and English is very common here - the government conduct business in English and all the newspapers write in English. We don't really have a 4 day week as we teach up to 12:30 on a Friday but no afternoons. A lot of my hours are extra because I need the students to catch up on some stuff (pre-emptively) as I may be taking a break in a few weeks if my plans work out. I bribe them with cake...

I teach 11-18 although the ages are not as rigid as in the Uk and we have 20 year olds learning alongside 16 year olds if that is where they are in their education. Sometimes pupils have had to take a year off for various family reasons. I teach Chemistry. My school is not a government school which are very poorly funded with minimum facilities and 70+ in a class room. It would fit very well in the English private system and the pupils have to pay (quite a lot!) to come here. I was a pupil here in the 80s which is why I wanted to return. I also got Jack out of returning so it has been well worth it!!

Never too many questions - I can talk for hours. I think the main difference is that the pupils here are so keen to learn because they see education as a way of never returning to poverty. A lot of them have parents or grandparents who started with nothing and they can see the value of education. Its almost like going back to a time when teachers were respected not blamed for everything. Here the onus is on the pupil to learn. Sorry for going on so its just eerily quiet around here :lol:

[wndyeliza]

:love2: Jemma, once again you are my Hero. People like you are few and far between. I think of the the teachers Unions in California and of all the money the State has thrown down that rabbit hole to have one of the worst educational rates in the US.:mad: I have been doing a lot of thinking about what I can and cannot do without after these 2 weeks here in Mexico. We drove into the small villages in the Yucatan after going to Chitzen Itza, dirt floors, traditional housing (oval stick walls tied together with a thatched roof, sometimes the walls were plastered, sometimes not), laundry on the line, fires outside, buckets for washing and hauling, etc...and the children smiling, coming from the local school (uniforms were everywhere), and I couldn't help but think that I was the wretch. Not these folks. I am a spoiled rotten wretch. :doh: I do hope that I can keep that attitude when I get back to the States...one of gratitude and thankfulness for what I have. I can get by with less.
I have seen the "Ugly American" syndrome since I have been down here. I would like to think that I am not one of them. I tried to speak the language as much as I could remember, picked up after myself, said the please/thank you, smiled and looked people in the eye when I did it.
But Miss Jemma you live it everyday. You are a jewel! :yes: (Give Jack a Gramma squeeze from me!:hug:

[idtwinmom]

Jemma - Wendy is right! You and those like you (no matter where they teach) are the heroes! Once upon a time, some 20 years ago, I set out to be a teacher. Long story, short - I don't teach and haven't for a long time because of circumstance. Any person who dedicates themselves to molding young minds is the greatest hero of them all! And then to do it where you might not have power or water is an amazing feat!

Wendy - glad you are having a good time and showing the natives that we are not all "Spoiled Americans". Hugs, can't wait to here you are home and safe!

[jemtred]

Ah don't be daft you lot I am not a hero - I have a seriously nice life style and it is relatively luxurious honest. I mostly have water and elec and today I have a huge storm to keep me amused. I dont have TV by choice not circumstance. And I love teaching because I love the company of young people - I find them endlessly amusing (but dont tell them that!) and they keep me young at heart. I wouldn't do any thing else and believe me I have tried a few careers.

[idtwinmom]

And the same can be said back! Because no matter how you spin it - A Teacher is A Hero! (And that goes for you too Shawsi!)

[handkl]

And the same can be said back! Because no matter how you spin it - A Teacher is A Hero! (And that goes for you too Shawsi!)

Here here!!!! :applause::applause::applause:

[idtwinmom]

Sing it with me everybody! "North to Alaska.....!" Here we come!

DH has been offered a job in Anchorage, Alaska!

[Nicole Young]

LISA!!!! How exciting!!!! That is awesome

[idtwinmom]

From where I sit, it is more than awesome! It is God's divine intervention! And believe me when I say, I am saying those grateful "Thank you Lords!"

[Kathleen]

Lisa, that is great news! I hope he is as happy with the prospect as you are!

I know it means turmoil for the next few months, but how very exciting!!

[renee s]

How exciting for you guys! What a answer to prayer! So happy for you!
My cousins, I believe, live in Anchorage. They moved there with their parents (my uncle and aunt, of course) from MN in the 70s?? for mission work. The kids grew up and have stay there, but a few years ago my uncle and Aunt moved to California. (Quite a change) My dad also have some cousins that live in North Pole, Alaska. They work for the KJNP (I think that's right) a radio station there.

I actually got my broke flair from my kid's Face book. I may redo it in a different background and font so I can upload it here to share. :)


My husband was born and raised in Sitka, Alaska (down in the panhandle and almost in Canada more than Alaska). I lived there for almost 17 years and really consider it home!

Where in Alaska are they?

Love your 'I'm Broke' flair! Is it in the member gallery, cause I didn't see it!

[newbienfr]

Lisa-Congrats to your husband on his new job!!! I hope the move goes well for all of you.

[idtwinmom]

Rene - Well, if you do get that uploaded I would dearly love to have a copy! Also, if your cousins are contactable, maybe I could get a hold of them. (If it's appropriate of course!)

[Scrappy Mama]

Sing it with me everybody! "North to Alaska.....!" Here we come!

DH has been offered a job in Anchorage, Alaska!

That is so great! Now breath a sigh of relief!

[idtwinmom]

Yes, and I've started the "Things to do to make a move happen file!"

[handkl]

Congrats Lisa! That is wonderful news for you and Chris! I am glad everything has worked out for you. When one door closes, another one opens.

What do the children think of moving to Alaska?

[shawsi]

I am sooooooo excited for you! I know how much you wanted to go home. How soon will he start his job? Is it the one he wanted? You said that you were going to have to wait until school is out...thank goodness that won't be too long. Wow! Such great news and such an amazing answer to prayer!

[idtwinmom]

Hannah - Raichael is not really aware of what is happening. But when I told the boys they got very excited. Sean even started jumping up and down and had to be hushed (Raichael was napping). Of course, how much he understands is another thing.

Shawsi - as far as it being "the one he wanted", he didn't really have a favorite of the 4 he had applied for. He did go ahead and apply for another one today (partially on his brother's advice since his brother works with, not for, this other company). As long as it is a job that pays enough and is in his field of expertise, I don't think he really cares too much beyond that.

I just feel so blessed right now. I know that so many others are not having it this easy. We have some obstacles yet to overcome, but I know that God is with me and will give me strength. I also know that as I face the 2 1/2 months as a single parent, there may be moments when I just need to grumble and when I do, you all will be here to support me (and to give me a swift kick if I need it!)

[shawsi]

Hannah - Raichael is not really aware of what is happening. But when I told the boys they got very excited. Sean even started jumping up and down and had to be hushed (Raichael was napping). Of course, how much he understands is another thing.

Shawsi - as far as it being "the one he wanted", he didn't really have a favorite of the 4 he had applied for. He did go ahead and apply for another one today (partially on his brother's advice since his brother works with, not for, this other company). As long as it is a job that pays enough and is in his field of expertise, I don't think he really cares too much beyond that.

I just feel so blessed right now. I know that so many others are not having it this easy. We have some obstacles yet to overcome, but I know that God is with me and will give me strength. I also know that as I face the 2 1/2 months as a single parent, there may be moments when I just need to grumble and when I do, you all will be here to support me (and to give me a swift kick if I need it!)

Oh, I know that will be hard...especially if you have to pack by yourself. It's not like you can visit often either, is it? It seems like quite a distance away. Anyway...grumble away...you have our support for sure.

[idtwinmom]

No, he won't be going back and forth that is for sure. :lol: We have some really good neighbors who have already offered their support and for things like the yard I can get help from them and the boy scouts! I will probably take advantage of his back and big truck too, getting stuff hauled to Goodwill. They have even offered to watch my daughter from time to time so that I can just work on the packing. May set it up so that she goes to "play" once a week. Between that and her 2 mornings in preschool, I might actually get something done!

[just-pjz]

I've been missing out on lots here and will catch up soon.
The DET competition has taken up most of my 'puter time, but I just read in the DeZign with Z--Happy Birthday thread that your husband got a job, Lisa!
I'm so happy and excited for you for that and that you get to go home!! That is such awesome news! Thank goodness!

Hope everyone is having a good time of it! Be back soon to catch up.
Take care.

[wndyeliza]

Lisa! Congrats to you and your family on the new job and the move! (Although for the life of me, I HATE moving....) AND that this came at a great time. Things should be thawing out up there in the next few months which should make the move a bit easier. We may need to get a fund together for you all...for bug repellent. I hear that the mosquitos are the size of 747's in the summer!
This is really great news!

[jemtred]

COngrats to you and your hubby Lisa. What good news for you both!
Nice to see you back Wendy.

[idtwinmom]

Lisa! Congrats to you and your family on the new job and the move! (Although for the life of me, I HATE moving....) AND that this came at a great time. Things should be thawing out up there in the next few months which should make the move a bit easier. We may need to get a fund together for you all...for bug repellent. I hear that the mosquitos are the size of 747's in the summer!
This is really great news!

:rofl: Well, if you are in the wrong place, yes - the mosquitos can be pretty bad. For the most part I never had a lot of trouble with them. And yes, our full family trip up should be at a good time of year!

So, are you home now? Working hard on those LOs I hope!

[wndyeliza]

Hello my Friends! I'm BAAAACCKKKKK!!!:yahoo:
I received a $50. DSP gift certificate for a wedding gift and I spent it all last night! I do have lots of pics Lisa...some of the more spectacular ones are from Steve's diving trips. I have been kinda scared to try faux masking (I have PSE6) but I think now is the time to try. I even bought the Midnight Garden to get in on the challenge...then I realized that it was due...oh well!
I did do one wedding LO while I was gone. Most of the photos I have received are softly fuzzy. But I received some last night that were sharp and clear. I'll post the one before I leave for work.
Who are the Zero's that made it to the next round of DET? Rene - how's things going? Hannah - LOVE the banana, that is too funny! Dorene - where are you? Shawsi! Hiya!
Everyone else ....whats up!?

[wndyeliza]

http://www.digitalscrapbookplace.com/gallery/showphoto.php?photo=307520&nocache=1

Here's the first one!

[idtwinmom]

Hey, softly fuzzy can work in a wedding book! Saves a whole bunch of steps making them dreamy!

[ReneT]

Hi guys. I haven't been online much for the last couple of days - computer problems and wasn't feeling that great. Better now.

Wow, lots has happened since Monday. Lisa, CONGRATULATIONS!!!! That is so exciting! It will be a lot of work, but worth it once it's done. I'm so happy for you and your family. I know how worried you were.

Wendy - so glad you're back!!!! Can't wait to see lots of romantic layouts!!!

Hannah, love your new avatar. Very funny.

[handkl]

I'm just catching up on the going ons of DSP as I knocked out with something on Tuesday night. I wasn't sick, but felt ill. My head was aching and so was the rest of my body. I have a bit of congestion and cough now. It hit on Tuesday night and by yesterday morning I couldn't even pick up Taggart. I pretty much slept all day except for when I was woken to nurse Taggart. And because I'm nursing, I can't take any meds. So, today I have more energy, but still don't feel 100%.

Wendy, can't wait to see all the layouts...off to check out the one linked above.

Thanks Rene...I figured it would work well with my new name. I'll change it depending on holidays, etc., but my face and banana will stay.

[shawsi]

Very cute, Hannah Banana.

Rene, sure glad you are back. I was worried about you. How was your family visit?

Lisa...Good luck on all that packing. Sounds like you have very supportive neighbors.

Wendy....Loved the first glimpse into your new life. Can't wait to see more.

Hi to everyone else. Hope it's getting warmer where you all are, 'cause it isn't here!

[ReneT]

Hannah we're going to love seeing how you incorporate that banana into various holiday avatars!

Thanks shawsi. I'm good now. My family visit was great. I soooooooooo enjoyed seeing my nephew from Canada. He's just fabulous. I wish he didn't live so far away. And I enjoyed watching my great niece in her One Act Play rehearsal. Plus we ate at this restaurant called Underwoods. Kind of like a homestyle country cooking and barbeque buffet, with awesome yeast rolls and peach cobbler with homemade whipped cream. Very yummy!

[idtwinmom]

Wow! Sounds like the flu bug that hit my kids hit you too Hannah! Word of warning - it lasts 4 to 5 days and can come back at you a second time if you don't get rid of it completely the first. So, just because you feel better, don't think you can bounce right back to a full day!

Rene - glad you are feeling better too!

Shawsi - next winter we can complain about the cold together! :lol:

[wndyeliza]

Wow! Sounds like the flu bug that hit my kids hit you too Hannah! Word of warning - it lasts 4 to 5 days and can come back at you a second time if you don't get rid of it completely the first. So, just because you feel better, don't think you can bounce right back to a full day!

Rene - glad you are feeling better too!

Shawsi - next winter we can complain about the cold together! :lol:


Just Winter? :lol:

[wndyeliza]

Question for all of you....

What was or is the greatest frustration that any of you had in learning different techniques... for me right now its masking:doh:. I would like to do more graphic LO's, but it seems that masking is a big trick to that. :yes:
So what was it for you?:think:

[idtwinmom]

First - Yes, just winter. Love the summers with temps between 65 and 70! Of course, if you go to Fairbanks, summer temps reach the 100's.

Second - my biggest frustration was extractions! Getting those clean extractions took so much time and effort. Of course, that includes masking if you really do it right, but to use Masks for blending is no problem, and for clipping, well that is a one or two click thing (two if you have to reverse it!).

[Kathleen]

Hey, Wendy! Welcome back!!

Have you seen this post: PS and PSE: Understanding Layers and Masks (http://www.digitalscrapbookplace.com/forum/showthread.php?t=34897&highlight=totally+rad)

Maybe it might help. Or is it just the look of the results you are struggling with?
Here is a funny comparison, in talking about growing up and learning to do things, my mom has often said she felt that I was most frustrated right before I could do something - crawl, walk, say more words, etc. You know what you want to do, you just can't quite get there. Just by having the idea, and a vision, you will work on your technique and get it mastered!

As for your question about greatest frustration ... I seem to pick up the technical aspect (how to do something in Photoshop) pretty easily, but I get super frustrated when I have a vision in my mind, and I just don't get it to materialize on the page. And more often than not, it is with something more graphic in style. I think I have the hardest time with blending modes ... many layers of a photo, with different blend modes, different opacity.

[handkl]

I would have to agree with Kathleen. Having a vision in my mind that just doesn't materialize on the page is my biggest frustration. No necessary technique that slows me down just my vision not coming out on the page.

[wndyeliza]

Thanks Ladies! I feel better about stuff now. Kathleen, I have been reading the tutorial on blending masks as well a the Missing Manual for PSE6. :help: I hoping that clipping masks will be easier.:pray: We won't even get into QC's :mad: :lol:

[dinaben99]

I always find the information sharing here to be so great! I am considering getting Photoshop Elements 7 and I'm just afraid that I'll have a big learning curve at the beginning, but I know in the end it will be worth it (I hope anyway)

Thanks Kathleen for the link to the thread PS and PSE. I'm going to have to read it.
Does anyone else have thoughts about PSE 7? I noticed it goes on sale next week at Coscto so I'm hoping to get it then.

[idtwinmom]

Dina - what are you using now? Yes, there is a bit of a learning curve, but it does a lot given the price. I saw that sale too and it's a really good one, like $30 off retail. And then if this is an upgrade for you, you can possibly get that discount too as they often do it in the form of a rebate. Any way - we can answer better if you tell us what you are using.

[dinaben99]

Right now I'm using software from Creative Memories - Storybook Creator Plus, which is actually very nice for the actual "page" creation part, but I really want to do more to edit photos and if possible sometime down the line if the software and my skill are able - I'd like to try creating my own elements.

So, I know PSE 7 will do photo editing, but can you also create elements with it?, and what's the learning curve. It seems like a lot of people are using the full Photoshop CS versions, but that's way out of my price range! and probably more than I really will ever need as far as software capability. Any thoughts

[idtwinmom]

I used PSE for a really long time! (my first version was v.2!) For LOs and basic element creation it is great! Some things are much more difficult as the tools are not as sophisticated as PS, but there is a lot that it does that the Creative Memories software does not. There will be a learning curve, but there is also an abundance of tutorials and help! I recommend you use it with tutorials for a couple months, then consider either a class and/or the mentor program. You can do backgrounds that are almost as sophisticated as PS, but it's harder to find the brushes pre-made.

Bottom line - if you want to dabble in your own designing (kits, elements, etc) then it is well worth the price. The photo editing works really well too! And if you ever do get the money and want to further your design skills, the learning curve on PS won't be as bad!

[dinaben99]

Thanks so much Lisa for the info! I think I'm going to pick it up for sure now!

I really want to be able to edit my photos and I don't have a good program for that now, (all I can do is remove red eye-most of the time, change to B&W & Sepia, and crop, very basic stuff) I'd like to be able to do more blending, removing distractions from the pictures, spot color, out of bounds, etc)

If along the way I can create an element or two that'd be great. I'm going to check out the thread Kathleen posted and maybe after I've played with it for a while I'll try a DSU class too. I'm so excited now!!! I can't wait until next week for the sale. It will probably take me a week to load the program after I buy it though. lol

[idtwinmom]

You can always download the free trial and start right now! Then all you have to do is put in your code when you buy! (I'm terrible at waiting for what I want!) :lol:

[wndyeliza]

(throws 2 cents on the floor)
Dina, I started with Elements 6. I had dabbled with Microsoft Image Pro just for things like photo editing, basic stuff. When I bought PSE6 not only did I have (and still do have) a learning curve for the program, but for digi-scrapping as well. I took the beginners class for PSE and I have been very happy with everything. Any frustrations that I have are a user problem, not the program.
I think you'll be happy with it! There are a bunch of tutorials as Lisa said, and I bought the "Missing Manual" for the program. And if you can get the program $30.00 off...you go girl! :tup:

[Kathleen]

Thanks Ladies! I feel better about stuff now. Kathleen, I have been reading the tutorial on blending masks as well a the Missing Manual for PSE6. :help: I hoping that clipping masks will be easier.:pray: We won't even get into QC's :mad: :lol:

Tell us about the challenges with QC's, I'm sure we can help!! I'll see if I can find any helpful tutorials on clipping masks.

Thanks so much Lisa for the info! I think I'm going to pick it up for sure now!

I really want to be able to edit my photos and I don't have a good program for that now, (all I can do is remove red eye-most of the time, change to B&W & Sepia, and crop, very basic stuff) I'd like to be able to do more blending, removing distractions from the pictures, spot color, out of bounds, etc)

If along the way I can create an element or two that'd be great. I'm going to check out the thread Kathleen posted and maybe after I've played with it for a while I'll try a DSU class too. I'm so excited now!!! I can't wait until next week for the sale. It will probably take me a week to load the program after I buy it though. lol

I have to agree, try the trial of PSE. I haven't used the Creative Memories software, so I can't speak to it first hand, but from what I have read, you can do a lot of things, but when you want to expand, you run up against the functionality of the program.

If you aren't afraid of learning, there are SOOOOO many resources available for Photoshop, and here at DSP there is always someone around to help!

[shawsi]

Thanks so much Lisa for the info! I think I'm going to pick it up for sure now!

I really want to be able to edit my photos and I don't have a good program for that now, (all I can do is remove red eye-most of the time, change to B&W & Sepia, and crop, very basic stuff) I'd like to be able to do more blending, removing distractions from the pictures, spot color, out of bounds, etc)

If along the way I can create an element or two that'd be great. I'm going to check out the thread Kathleen posted and maybe after I've played with it for a while I'll try a DSU class too. I'm so excited now!!! I can't wait until next week for the sale. It will probably take me a week to load the program after I buy it though. lol

Dinaben, I will also chime in. When I started, I used the free trial version. You are not out anything, and with the help of those great ladies on here and the tutorials, I was able to start New Kids on the Block. I don't know when they are going to start a new New Kids, but I would also highly recommend it. It is a lot of work, but you really learn a lot. I also have a mentor, which is also a wonderful resource. When Elements 7 came out, I bought it, and I am so glad that I did. Like Wendy, I used Microsoft Photo Editor Pro, and I really liked it, but this is so much better. I love editing photos, and PS Elements is wonderful for my heritage shots. There are photos that I thought were too far gone and I have gotten wonderful results at fixing them. Good luck at what ever you decide to do.
Sandi

[dinaben99]

Wow, you are all so much help. I hadn't even thought of the trial version! Maybe I'll download that and play over the weekend and buy (on sale) on Monday!!!! Can't beat the price of $30 off the Costco price!
I can't wait.
I've started a list (thanks to you all) of resources for learning. I'm going to pace myself though so don't expect big things overnight =:) I do get frustrated when there's a disconnect between my skills and my wants.. lol I totally understand that "user error/problem" side of the equation.
I never even thought about the NKOTB, I'll have to take a look at that and see what it's all about and when it starts.
Thanks again everyone!

[idtwinmom]

I think that is why we all gather here Dina! To help each other. When each of us starts out and as we learn and grow there is always someone out there to help. As we get better and have learned something that someone newer needs to know, we get to give back. In each and every one of us, there is a novice and an expert, a student and a teacher! I guess what I am trying to say is, you will get your turn to help! And believe it or not, it will be sooner than you think!

[jemtred]

Sorry to be gone for so long - I always seem to say that - but this time i have a really great excuse!
After weeks of delay and frustration the social welfare people finally granted us fostering with eventual adoption of a little girl. We have been visiting her for a few weeks but things run slowly here. She is 6 months old but very neglected so only 5 kg (11 pounds). Here is Thea Chisomo Rosie. Chisomo means Grace in the local language.
http://www.digitalscrapbookplace.com/gallery/data/500/thumbs/Thea.jpg (http://www.digitalscrapbookplace.com/gallery/showphoto.php?photo=307873&ppuser=127714)
Thea (http://www.digitalscrapbookplace.com/gallery/showphoto.php?photo=307873&ppuser=127714)


http://www.digitalscrapbookplace.com/gallery/data/500/thumbs/Jack-andThea.jpg (http://www.digitalscrapbookplace.com/gallery/showphoto.php?photo=307872&ppuser=127714)

Jack and Thea (http://www.digitalscrapbookplace.com/gallery/showphoto.php?photo=307872&ppuser=127714)

[Kathleen]

Wow, you are all so much help. I hadn't even thought of the trial version! Maybe I'll download that and play over the weekend and buy (on sale) on Monday!!!! Can't beat the price of $30 off the Costco price!
I can't wait.

Dina, where do you see that Elements is going on sale at Costco? I have a friend who would be interested at that price! I am a Costco junkie, and trying to remember if I saw it in a flyer?

I used to live in Farmington Hills, so I know just where you are!

[Kathleen]

Sorry to be gone for so long - I always seem to say that - but this time i have a really great excuse!
After weeks of delay and frustration the social welfare people finally granted us fostering with eventual adoption of a little girl. We have been visiting her for a few weeks but things run slowly here. She is 6 months old but very neglected so only 5 kg (11 pounds). Here is Thea Chisomo Rosie. Chisomo means Grace in the local language.
http://www.digitalscrapbookplace.com/gallery/data/500/thumbs/Thea.jpg (http://www.digitalscrapbookplace.com/gallery/showphoto.php?photo=307873&ppuser=127714)
Thea (http://www.digitalscrapbookplace.com/gallery/showphoto.php?photo=307873&ppuser=127714)


http://www.digitalscrapbookplace.com/gallery/data/500/thumbs/Jack-andThea.jpg (http://www.digitalscrapbookplace.com/gallery/showphoto.php?photo=307872&ppuser=127714)

Jack and Thea (http://www.digitalscrapbookplace.com/gallery/showphoto.php?photo=307872&ppuser=127714)

Congratulations, Jemma. How very exciting. And what a cute little peanut!!

[dinaben99]

Dina, where do you see that Elements is going on sale at Costco? I have a friend who would be interested at that price! I am a Costco junkie, and trying to remember if I saw it in a flyer?

I used to live in Farmington Hills, so I know just where you are!

Kathleen: It's so cool that we can meet people from all over, including our own backyard:lol: Don't know when you moved, but Livonia has 2 Cosctos now!

The Coscto Coupon is on the Costco flyer that just arrived the other day. Saving dates of 3/16 - 4/5. The Adobe Photoshop Elements 7 (Item#325700) $30 off with coupon (also available at Costco.com)

[dinaben99]

Sorry to be gone for so long - I always seem to say that - but this time i have a really great excuse!
After weeks of delay and frustration the social welfare people finally granted us fostering with eventual adoption of a little girl. We have been visiting her for a few weeks but things run slowly here. She is 6 months old but very neglected so only 5 kg (11 pounds). Here is Thea Chisomo Rosie. Chisomo means Grace in the local language.
http://www.digitalscrapbookplace.com/gallery/data/500/thumbs/Thea.jpg (http://www.digitalscrapbookplace.com/gallery/showphoto.php?photo=307873&ppuser=127714)
Thea (http://www.digitalscrapbookplace.com/gallery/showphoto.php?photo=307873&ppuser=127714)


http://www.digitalscrapbookplace.com/gallery/data/500/thumbs/Jack-andThea.jpg (http://www.digitalscrapbookplace.com/gallery/showphoto.php?photo=307872&ppuser=127714)

Jack and Thea (http://www.digitalscrapbookplace.com/gallery/showphoto.php?photo=307872&ppuser=127714)

Jemma: Congratulations! She is so cute! At least you have a great excuse for being gone. I know I fall of the map here for a while, post a bit and then drop off again. I thought that was just part of being a Zero (or at least allowed I hope) :o Zeros pick up where they left off and always share the love. Congrats again!

[shawsi]

Oh Jemma, she is so adorable, but only 11 pounds? My son weighed 8 when he was born. That is so tiny. Hope it all works out all right for you.

[wndyeliza]

:hug: Jemma! Congratulations!:hug: How does Jack like having a little sister? I know that she is going to blossom when she gets to her new family. I can't wait to see the LO's. OK, when you get the time to do them with 2 youngsters and work...:rolleyes:

[Kathleen]

Kathleen: It's so cool that we can meet people from all over, including our own backyard:lol: Don't know when you moved, but Livonia has 2 Cosctos now!

The Coscto Coupon is on the Costco flyer that just arrived the other day. Saving dates of 3/16 - 4/5. The Adobe Photoshop Elements 7 (Item#325700) $30 off with coupon (also available at Costco.com)

We left Michigan in 2003, and now live in Iowa. I think it was one Costco (maybe on Haggerty?) in that part of town.

One of our very favorite restaurants was Little Italy in Northville. They expanded while we were still there, and lost a bit of their charm, but still delicious food. When we come across new Italian restaurants, that is often our comparison.

Thanks for the info on the Costco flyer!

[idtwinmom]

Sorry to be gone for so long - I always seem to say that - but this time i have a really great excuse!
After weeks of delay and frustration the social welfare people finally granted us fostering with eventual adoption of a little girl. We have been visiting her for a few weeks but things run slowly here. She is 6 months old but very neglected so only 5 kg (11 pounds). Here is Thea Chisomo Rosie. Chisomo means Grace in the local language.
http://www.digitalscrapbookplace.com/gallery/data/500/thumbs/Thea.jpg (http://www.digitalscrapbookplace.com/gallery/showphoto.php?photo=307873&ppuser=127714)
Thea (http://www.digitalscrapbookplace.com/gallery/showphoto.php?photo=307873&ppuser=127714)


http://www.digitalscrapbookplace.com/gallery/data/500/thumbs/Jack-andThea.jpg (http://www.digitalscrapbookplace.com/gallery/showphoto.php?photo=307872&ppuser=127714)

Jack and Thea (http://www.digitalscrapbookplace.com/gallery/showphoto.php?photo=307872&ppuser=127714)


Jemma - this is wonderful news! And such a cutie too! I know you had hopes of this and I'm just so glad for you and your "growing" family!

[idtwinmom]

Dina, where do you see that Elements is going on sale at Costco? I have a friend who would be interested at that price! I am a Costco junkie, and trying to remember if I saw it in a flyer?

I used to live in Farmington Hills, so I know just where you are!

It's a coupon in their latest flyer!

[idtwinmom]

We left Michigan in 2003, and now live in Iowa. I think it was one Costco (maybe on Haggerty?) in that part of town.

One of our very favorite restaurants was Little Italy in Northville. They expanded while we were still there, and lost a bit of their charm, but still delicious food. When we come across new Italian restaurants, that is often our comparison.

Thanks for the info on the Costco flyer!

OK, I have to say: I would not recognize anything, but I moved from Michigan (where I grew up) in 1986 (I think that's the right year). I was born in Flint (lived in Montrose) and moved to Rochester (now Rochester Hills) when I was in grade school. I have only been back once, and that was within a year of leaving! Would give anything to visit, but now that I'm headed north again, it will probably be another 20 years before I get back! :lol:

[dinaben99]

OK, I have to say: I would not recognize anything, but I moved from Michigan (where I grew up) in 1986 (I think that's the right year). I was born in Flint (lived in Montrose) and moved to Rochester (now Rochester Hills) when I was in grade school. I have only been back once, and that was within a year of leaving! Would give anything to visit, but now that I'm headed north again, it will probably be another 20 years before I get back! :lol:


Lisa, we'd love to have you visit, but honestly I'd love the chance to visit Alaska!
I'm so glad that everything has worked out for your family!

[idtwinmom]

Well, if I ever do get back I will let all the Michigan DSPers know I'm coming! We'll have a crop! And since WoodsyWoman (designer Theresa Loman) lives in Michigan too, I bet we would have at least one designer there! :lol:

[dinaben99]

It would be great to have a crop in Michigan! I've love to meet others in our area! Let me know when someone organizes it! :tup:

[handkl]

Jemma, that is wonderful news!!!

As for a Michigan crop...I think I could manage attending that...it is only a few hours away and I could drive there. :)

Hello everyone else!!! :wave:

Congrats to Kathleen & PinkFlipFlops..:yippee::yippee::yippee:..they are both moving on to round 3 of the DET contest.

[Kathleen]

Jemma, that is wonderful news!!!

As for a Michigan crop...I think I could manage attending that...it is only a few hours away and I could drive there. :)

Hello everyone else!!! :wave:

Congrats to Kathleen & PinkFlipFlops..:yippee::yippee::yippee:..they are both moving on to round 3 of the DET contest.

Thanks, Hannah! I have to tell you again, I so loved your round 2 LO.

[handkl]

Thank you so much Kathleen. I hadn't been reading or chatting on the round 2 thread until after I read your comment about the white/black background debate. I hadn't even thought about how the white background would fit within the "guidelines" of the competition. I played with the backgrounds, but didn't like any of them behind the photo and strips of paper. I played with the opacity level on the blue one, but then thought that would be altering the kit so that is when I opted for the white. I guess either way I wouldn't have been moving on to round 3. Oh well, I will try again in the fall.

Your layout using those precious photos from Pam was just fabulous. I wish you all the best in the next rounds.

[wndyeliza]

Congrats! WTG Kathleen and Pink! :tup:

[ReneT]

Sorry to be gone for so long - I always seem to say that - but this time i have a really great excuse!
After weeks of delay and frustration the social welfare people finally granted us fostering with eventual adoption of a little girl. We have been visiting her for a few weeks but things run slowly here. She is 6 months old but very neglected so only 5 kg (11 pounds). Here is Thea Chisomo Rosie. Chisomo means Grace in the local language.
http://www.digitalscrapbookplace.com/gallery/data/500/thumbs/Thea.jpg (http://www.digitalscrapbookplace.com/gallery/showphoto.php?photo=307873&ppuser=127714)
Thea (http://www.digitalscrapbookplace.com/gallery/showphoto.php?photo=307873&ppuser=127714)


http://www.digitalscrapbookplace.com/gallery/data/500/thumbs/Jack-andThea.jpg (http://www.digitalscrapbookplace.com/gallery/showphoto.php?photo=307872&ppuser=127714)

Jack and Thea (http://www.digitalscrapbookplace.com/gallery/showphoto.php?photo=307872&ppuser=127714)

Congratulations Jemma. I know you are so excited and happy. They are so cute together!

[ReneT]

Congrats Kathleen & Flips! Very exciting!

[shawsi]

Congrats! WTG Kathleen and Pink! :tup:

Congrats? What did I miss? I am SO out of the loop sometimes.

[ReneT]

Congrats? What did I miss? I am SO out of the loop sometimes.

For making it to Round 3 of DET.

[RoadMap4Us]

Hello, Lovely Zeroes!

Nicole wanted me to let you know she is having Internet problems today. She'll be out-and-about here as soon as she can get back on-line. Crossing fingers that will be very soon!

[MyPinkFlipFlops]

Aww thanks everyone! I can't believe I made it this far! Sorry I've kinda checked out of this thread. I'm still keeping up with everyone through the emails. Baby Boots is kinda taking up a lot of time. Go figure...:-)
I do wonder what would happen if I actually made it to the DET. * gasp * I thought I'd just cross that bridge when I come to it. :D

[idtwinmom]

OK, think me daft (or old, or both!) Aren't you pregnant Flips? When is that baby due? Because I was thinking it should have been delivered by now!

[Kathleen]

Thank you so much Kathleen. I hadn't been reading or chatting on the round 2 thread until after I read your comment about the white/black background debate. I hadn't even thought about how the white background would fit within the "guidelines" of the competition. I played with the backgrounds, but didn't like any of them behind the photo and strips of paper. I played with the opacity level on the blue one, but then thought that would be altering the kit so that is when I opted for the white. I guess either way I wouldn't have been moving on to round 3. Oh well, I will try again in the fall.

Your layout using those precious photos from Pam was just fabulous. I wish you all the best in the next rounds.

This is my 4th DET competition, and each has been challenging in one way or another. Sometimes I see a kit and almost immediately know what to do, other times, something may not be my style and I really have to work at. I totally know what you mean about not finding a background that works! I have learned a lot in each competition, so I can look at as a fun experience no matter what the results!

Once Pam said I could use the photos, it pretty much made itself!

Congrats Kathleen & Flips! Very exciting!

Congrats! WTG Kathleen and Pink! :tup:

Thanks so much Rene and Wendy! Now I just need an idea for round 3 ... not coming as easy this time!

[MyPinkFlipFlops]

OK, think me daft (or old, or both!) Aren't you pregnant Flips? When is that baby due? Because I was thinking it should have been delivered by now!

Hehe it's ok. Here is Baby Boots!

http://www.digitalscrapbookplace.com/forum/../gallery/data/500/thumbs/Day15.jpg (http://www.digitalscrapbookplace.com/forum/../gallery/showphoto.php?photo=304336&ppuser=56318)
Welcome to the World (http://www.digitalscrapbookplace.com/forum/../gallery/showphoto.php?photo=304336&ppuser=56318)

[idtwinmom]

OK, I knew that somewhere along the line I must have missed that announcement! :lol:

He's adorable!

[shawsi]

Ah Ha! Now I know what the congrats was for. And here is one from me girls. PinkFlipFlops congrats to you again. Beautiful baby.

[Nicole Young]

Hey guys!! Sorry I have been AWOL this weekend! We put in some new light fixtures and outlets and internet cable lines!! I am SO thankful that I have a great Dad who knows how to do these things and is willing to come over and help my hubby do it!!! I now have a brand new kitchen light over our breakfast table (its awesome! I am so excited about it!) and a light in our hallway (which is MUCH more convenient than having to turn on the bathroom light everytime the kids need anything at night!)
And now our desktop can be in a better place in our house where we had to run an outlet and internet line. We did knock out our internet connection for part of the afternoon which was more than a little stressful! LOL...I felt SO cut off from the world!
And now I am getting my DS's cold!!! UUGGGHHHH but I am so glad to have all that work done and be able to enjoy it now!!!
Ok, if I am feeling better, I am going to be doing some catching up tomorrow!!! DD is on spring break and we are going to be doing a lot of fun stuff, but tomorrow morning is definitely going to be a relaxing, sit on the computer and scrap type of morning!!!! ;)

[idtwinmom]

Nicole - glad you got it all sorted out! Enjoy that time tomorrow!

Shawsi - glad you are up to speed now!

And all the DET challengers - congrats whether you made it or not!

[handkl]

Glad your back on Nicole and have fun tomorrow.

[wndyeliza]

It must be the time for change! Lisa's gonna move, Nicole's getting new fixtures and wiring, I'm painting and sprucing up my creative space. I'm thinking about new fixtures too...better lighting for old(er) eyes can't be a bad thing...right? But with all of this extra activity I found myself falling asleep after I got home from work and waking up with the cat on my chest.

[shawsi]

It must be the time for change! Lisa's gonna move, Nicole's getting new fixtures and wiring, I'm painting and sprucing up my creative space. I'm thinking about new fixtures too...better lighting for old(er) eyes can't be a bad thing...right? But with all of this extra activity I found myself falling asleep after I got home from work and waking up with the cat on my chest.

Your cat must be related to mine. I sleep on my side a lot. He loves to sleep on my arm too. For such an independent animal, they love to be close to us, don't they? Well, nothing new here...same ole, same ole. Except the weather. It was around 70 degrees F today. How nice it was...for a change. So I am happy.

Speaking of change...aren't the new designers putting out some great kits? So are the more seasoned designers. I want to spend more money than I should.

[handkl]

Well, I woke up today with almost no voice whatsoever. I have a faint whisper...Foxton kept asking me to speak properly. It took him until almost dinner time to understand that Mummy just can't talk properly at the moment. Unfortunately, whatever it is I caught last week, I have shared with my family - Foxton has a cough and Taggart has a bit of stuffy nose and Kevin is starting to show the same signs I did last Tuesday...aching body, can't seem to get warm, etc. Lucky for him though he can try to take something to stop it or at least not be as bad as I was on the Wednesday.

So that's it for me...not going to stay up too late tonight has something tells me tomorrow is going to consistent of me looking after 3 sickies and myself on top of that.

[ReneT]

Hannah I hope you and your family get well. That's gonna be tough feeling so bad and taking care of everyone else too. Feel better.:hug:

[ReneT]

It must be the time for change! Lisa's gonna move, Nicole's getting new fixtures and wiring, I'm painting and sprucing up my creative space. I'm thinking about new fixtures too...better lighting for old(er) eyes can't be a bad thing...right? But with all of this extra activity I found myself falling asleep after I got home from work and waking up with the cat on my chest.

Yep, Wendy. Maybe it's Spring Fever causing all the change. I FINALLY finished decorating my master bathroom today(4 years after moving in to our house). It has a ledge around the top of the wall that goes 1/2 way around the bathroom, and I just kept putting it off and putting it off because it was intimidating me, but I finally finished it last week, then added new rugs and towels today. I'm so proud of it.

[idtwinmom]

Shawsi - 70? Oh, I would love 70 instead of this 45 and rainy! I always have wanted to spend too much! Trying really hard to stay out of the store!

Hannah! I feel for you! It's not easy being sick and I'm afraid it sounds like the same crud that has hit around here this year! Count on at least a week for everybody to get over it, and maybe longer for the little ones!

Rene - how's things? Anything from DS?

[MyPinkFlipFlops]

Oh dear Hannah, looking after a whole family must be tough! Baby Boots has been a little stuffy and not feeling well and I thought I had it bad. Becoming a mom for the first time means I really admire anyone with more than one kid right now!

[wndyeliza]

Hannah! Feeling any better today? How are the kiddo's and the DH?

Rene! Congrats! Don'tcha love the feeling of accomplishment! (and the fact that it is one more thing off of the to-do list). What's next? And like Lisa asked...whats up with the DS?

Lisa - any target date on the move? What about selling your home? Does it look promising? The housing market here in CA is really slow. But its a buyers market, thats for sure.

Pink! Kathleen! How is the last (?) round of the DET coming? When is the big announcement going to be made? Nervous?

[handkl]

Thanks for the love guys! As is typical with Kevin he doesn't get run down too often with colds, flu, etc., so because he slept most of yesterday and took some stuff, he was able to ward it off. As for me and the boys...well, I still only have a very faint whisper for the voice, Foxton is coughing, and when Taggart was first up this morning he was sick all over the floor outside of our bedrooms, but seems to be much better now.

PinkFlips and Kathleen - have you guys posted your round 3 layouts yet?

Rene - that's awesome! We are in the midst of revamp around our house. The next major redo is our bathroom - new floor, new paint, new fixtures, and new cupboard doors.

Hey Wendy! Anymore wedding/honeymoon pics/layouts?

Does everyone else have some weather forcasted for today...blue sky and sunshine here and 15C (60F). The boys and I will be going for a walk later to enjoy some fresh air.

[handkl]

Happy St. Patty's Day to you all as well!!!!

[handkl]

Nicole, will you be including the Ireland Fields Page Kit the CAFE challenges?

[Kathleen]

What a chatty bunch today!

Rene - congrats on the bedroom decorating! I can so related! We have lived in our house 6 years, got so many things done in the first two years (building a wine cellar, building an office, Delaney's room) and then things came to a screeching halt. So it has been like 80% done, and I am just now getting motivated to work on drapes for a few places, move some furniture around, etc.

Hannah, so sorry you and your family are under the weather. I'm not sure what is worse, everyone down at one time, leaving no one to take care of the other, or having it drag out for a month as it makes its way around the house. Hope it doesn't linger too long.

Lisa - any updates on the job/move front?

I just posted my round 3 DET LO last night. My mom loved it, my husband said "isn't that a little plain for round 3?" hmmmm! You can have a look here: Kathleen - Love
(http://www.digitalscrapbookplace.com/forum/../gallery/showphoto.php?photo=308332&cat=500&ppuser=91426).

Everyone have a great day!

[wndyeliza]

Hannah, I want to do some more LO's. What I have in my head is a more graphic style LO with the lyrics from our wedding song. Now, I just have to figure out how to do it just like I see it in my head. I also have more photographs out there that I hope to collect from friends. Then we have the couple hundred photos from Mexico, and with the grandkids back, I'll be busy I think.

[handkl]

Now there's my frustration...getting the vision from my head onto the page. Just remember to have fun with your scrapbooking! Enjoy your time with the grandkids.

Hey Kathleen! Your DET layout was awesome!!!! Can't wait to see yours PinkFlipFlops!

[Kathleen]

Hannah, I want to do some more LO's. What I have in my head is a more graphic style LO with the lyrics from our wedding song. Now, I just have to figure out how to do it just like I see it in my head. I also have more photographs out there that I hope to collect from friends. Then we have the couple hundred photos from Mexico, and with the grandkids back, I'll be busy I think.

Hey, Wendy ... not to influence your ideas, but maybe this helps ... this LO by beckag99 has been in my favorites for a long time:

http://www.digitalscrapbookplace.com/forum/../gallery/data/3466/thumbs/08_07_12-dream-a-little.jpg (http://www.digitalscrapbookplace.com/forum/../gallery/showphoto.php?photo=281115&cat=fav)
Dream a Little (http://www.digitalscrapbookplace.com/forum/../gallery/showphoto.php?photo=281115&cat=fav)

And I did a LO a little while ago, not terribly graphic, but with song lyrics:

http://www.digitalscrapbookplace.com/forum/../gallery/data/4918/thumbs/2009_DGT-Birthday-Believe-In-Love-3.jpg (http://www.digitalscrapbookplace.com/forum/../gallery/showphoto.php?photo=302856&ppuser=91426)
Believe In Love (http://www.digitalscrapbookplace.com/forum/../gallery/showphoto.php?photo=302856&cat=500&ppuser=91426)

And this one by Jeanet, they way she did the text (although not a song, there is a lot of it) is really cool:

http://www.digitalscrapbookplace.com/forum/../gallery/data/994/thumbs/dspEM01.jpg (http://www.digitalscrapbookplace.com/forum/../gallery/showphoto.php?photo=294920&ppuser=72379)
Dear Jeanet (http://www.digitalscrapbookplace.com/forum/../gallery/showphoto.php?photo=294920&cat=500&ppuser=72379)

Now there's my frustration...getting the vision from my head onto the page. Just remember to have fun with your scrapbooking! Enjoy your time with the grandkids.

Hey Kathleen! Your DET layout was awesome!!!! Can't wait to see yours PinkFlipFlops!

Thanks, Hannah! It was great fun to do (which is the important part, right?).

PinkFlipFlops, hope your creative juices are flowing!!

[Kathleen]

Oh, and about nerves ... I was done so early this round (for me at least), so it's not like I was up against the deadline, and then waiting began immediately. I almost forget when the round end, and when we might get results (should be some time Saturday night). Now, my husband is out of town this weekend, and I'm not sure if that will make it better or worse. I am happy with my page, and it is very true to my style, which is usually not too cluttered. Sometimes I think a bit more cluttered would be better for the DET competition, I just don't know.

And, Rene ... you said a while back you might have interest in the Iowa crop. I'm sure you have seen it, but officially set for June 6th, and all the details have been posted, and registration is open in the store. Any updates from your son? I;m hoping no news is good news????

[ReneT]

Hi guys. I haven't been around today, so I'm just now getting caught up on the forums.

Hannah and Flips-hope everyone is feeling much better. Hang in there.

Lisa have you started packing yet? Or will you wait until school is closer to being out?

Kathleen, I would LOVE to go to the crop, but we leave for our cruise on June 11th, so there is just no way I can go to the crop. I want to go to one soooo bad, but so far the timing has not been right for any of them. I'm still waiting to hear what is going on with the cruise/crop that Ruby was working on.

Yes, it was so great to get the master bathroom done. Our house has been a work in progress since we built it 4 years ago. It's all happened in stages based on priority. Next comes the office. I need some type of seating in there and our family portrait framed that we are having taken next month.

I talked to DS today. He's gotten a reprieve. He is getting enough money on his IRS return this year that will pay his bills for another month. He had a second interview with a carpet cleaning company today. He has a friend that works there and he said he pretty much was told he was getting a job. He should find out for sure on Friday or Saturday. I am praying that will work out. He wanted to have lunch on Friday and I told him I would love to have lunch with him, but not if his plan is to ask me for money. He said he didn't intend to ask me for money. So please send prayers this way that he will get this carpet job.

[handkl]

That is wonderful news Rene...fingers crossed he has the job. Enjoy your lunch on Friday...hopefully he just wants to catch with you and talk about the last couple of months and maybe even apologize for his behaviour. Can't wait to hear what he has to say.

I also saw the stuff about the crop...I could drive there from here, but the timing just isn't right. My next year, I should be able to go any crop I want. Kevin has had 3 years of going solo trips with friends. It will be my turn soon!

[ReneT]

Oh cool Hannah. Maybe we could go to the same one and have a blast!

[wndyeliza]

Kathleen! Thanks for the inspiration. Dream a Little has been a favorite of mine too, and its like the idea in my head.
Hannah, how are you all feeing today?
Pink? Hey Pink?! Where are you?
Rene! I'm crossing my fingers for you. I am hoping that your DS has come to his senses.
Lisa, you're really quiet....what's up?

[Kathleen]

Kathleen, I would LOVE to go to the crop, but we leave for our cruise on June 11th, so there is just no way I can go to the crop. I want to go to one soooo bad, but so far the timing has not been right for any of them. I'm still waiting to hear what is going on with the cruise/crop that Ruby was working on.

Yes, it was so great to get the master bathroom done. Our house has been a work in progress since we built it 4 years ago. It's all happened in stages based on priority. Next comes the office. I need some type of seating in there and our family portrait framed that we are having taken next month.

I talked to DS today. He's gotten a reprieve. He is getting enough money on his IRS return this year that will pay his bills for another month. He had a second interview with a carpet cleaning company today. He has a friend that works there and he said he pretty much was told he was getting a job. He should find out for sure on Friday or Saturday. I am praying that will work out. He wanted to have lunch on Friday and I told him I would love to have lunch with him, but not if his plan is to ask me for money. He said he didn't intend to ask me for money. So please send prayers this way that he will get this carpet job.

Sorry the timing for the crop doesn't work!

I spent 1 1/2 looking at fabrics today, trying to get some sort of direction for a few things! Of course, I kept thinking to myself, if I could only design exactly what I wanted in Photoshop, this would be so much easier!

I hope you have a nice lunch with your son, Rene!

I also saw the stuff about the crop...I could drive there from here, but the timing just isn't right. My next year, I should be able to go any crop I want. Kevin has had 3 years of going solo trips with friends. It will be my turn soon!

Hannah, where in Ontario are you? I know all about the guys trips ... Mark (hubby) has a couple every year, which he so deserves! But I am horrible about putting myself first and making the time for me to do the same. The weekend of the crop, I've told him he needs to pretend I'm not home! But in all honesty, it will be the perfect kind of girl time for me ... I don't have to pack and travel hours to go somewhere, and I can still check in on my family a bit (I really do love them!), and I get to have some time just having fun!

[idtwinmom]

Oh, I missed so much! I was on the computer yesterday completely ignoring the forums and trying my best to get homework done! (Paths is going to be a bit of a struggle for a while I'm afraid - but I am learning a ton!) We still have no idea if he even has the job! She keeps hemming and hawing about telling him what the wages are and would not even give him the chance to talk about what he would like to get. Now we are waiting for her to send an "offer letter". Argh! That could blow his unemployment if it turns out the money is rediculously low! In the mean time, I'm trying to get some of the cleaning done for putting the house on the market but can't get DH to help. I admit he's had this awful cold, but he has now been almost a week without touching the mess in the front room. Argh! again!

Guess you could say I'm pretty stressed and really don't want to spend my time dumping.

Rene - I am sooooooo happy to here about DS! Totally enjoy your lunch with him, you both deserve it!

Hannah - I sure hope you and your family are better!

Kathleen and Flips - holding my breath for you on the DET!

[ReneT]

Well Lisa, I guess I haven't been paying close enough attention. I thought the job was already his. Hopefully she will send the letter and the salary will be what you need it to be. You and I can't get on the same page, huh? Either I'm off all day or you are lately. :)

Flips and Kathleen I know you are waiting on pins and needles to hear about the DET round. Can someone tell me exactly what the DET entails? I haven't read much about it so I don't know. I would like to eventually become a good enough digi scrapper to participate, but I need to know more about it.

Wendy, have you done any more wedding/honeymoon layouts? I need to go check out your gallery to see.

[idtwinmom]

Well, I think it's kind of my fault! I thought it was his too! He was "offered a job", but she wanted to discuss money. She then proceeded to be out of the office for the last half of the week and in meetings all day Monday. They finally connected yesterday and she kind of ran right over him every time he tried to steer the talks to the money. She talked benefits or the limits to those, the fact the company is much smaller than when he was there before, how the housing market is down up there (like every where!), blah, blah, blah! She basically refused to tell him what the pay was and would not let him ask or say what he wanted. Tough spot! So, yes the job is his, but she won't tell him what the pay is!

[shawsi]

Hi everyone. I haven't been on for a while, and it looks like a lot is going on. We've been really busy, so just haven't had a chance.

Well, I think it's kind of my fault! I thought it was his too! He was "offered a job", but she wanted to discuss money. She then proceeded to be out of the office for the last half of the week and in meetings all day Monday. They finally connected yesterday and she kind of ran right over him every time he tried to steer the talks to the money. She talked benefits or the limits to those, the fact the company is much smaller than when he was there before, how the housing market is down up there (like every where!), blah, blah, blah! She basically refused to tell him what the pay was and would not let him ask or say what he wanted. Tough spot! So, yes the job is his, but she won't tell him what the pay is!

I am so sorry Lisa! I still hope it all goes well. Weren't there some other possiblilties in Alaska as well if it doesn't? You got lots of prayers from this direction.

As far as those 70 degree temps...they are leaving. My daffodils are up, by chives are about 5 inches or so, and my Miss Kim Lilac bush is starting to bud...now there are talking about 29 degree temps tomorrow night. There goes by flowering trees and probably the fruit trees. Bummer.

Wendy, I hope to see more of your wedding and honeymoon. Especially since seeing your 1st one. It was gorgeous.

Rene: I sure hope all goes well with DS. You've been firm with him, maybe he gets the hint and will stay off the money kick. I will pray for that job too.

As far as decorating, we remodeled 5 years ago and I haven't done much since. I meant to stencil my dining room in a colonial stencil, but have never got the nerve. Somethings are just too scary. I can see it in my head, but so far that is the only place it is. lol

Good luck Flips and Kathleen. Hope you make the team. I know that waiting is hard.

Hannah...hope you all are up and going soon.

[handkl]

Oh cool Hannah. Maybe we could go to the same one and have a blast!

Hopefully we can hook-up at some point. It is so much easier to talk in person...you don't have to use punctuation. :rofl:

Hannah, where in Ontario are you? I know all about the guys trips ... Mark (hubby) has a couple every year, which he so deserves! But I am horrible about putting myself first and making the time for me to do the same. The weekend of the crop, I've told him he needs to pretend I'm not home! But in all honesty, it will be the perfect kind of girl time for me ... I don't have to pack and travel hours to go somewhere, and I can still check in on my family a bit (I really do love them!), and I get to have some time just having fun!

I'm an hour and bit north of Toronto. I hear on the difficulty of putting yourself first. That is part of the reason why I haven't been away since having children...check that I have been away from Foxton for a total of 4 days when I went to Michigan for the August NASCAR race in 2007 and I worried about him the entire time. I am jealous of you for sure! You get the best of both worlds!


LISA - Sorry hear about the job confusion. Hopefully is all gets sorted quickly and that the salary is what is needs to be.

As for me and the fam...well, I almost have my voice back. :yippee: As usually, Kev has side stepped this cold/cough thing and fells fantastic today. The boys on the other hand are just full of cold. Foxton went to be at 6:30 PM tonight and it was his decision to do so. Taggart isn't eating lots of solid food and wants to nurse more, but he is having difficulty keeping the food he does eat down because of all the congestion. So needless to say, the fun continues.

Now I am off to change my avitar...no need for shamrocks anymore.

[dinaben99]

wow, I'm off for a few days and have a lot of reading to catch up on!
Glad to hear most everyone is feeling better. Lisa good luck to DH and the job, what a hassle. DET contestants best of luck, the LOs look great so far.

On a side note: I picked up PSE 7 Monday night (only $49.99 + tax at Costco). I actually got it loaded on my computer last night and tonight I played around with the "scene cleaner" editor. It's pretty cool. I don't know how to do anything else yet, but I'll get there :pray:

[shawsi]

Dina, I just know you are really going to enjoy PSE 7. I bought it this Fall and I am still a long way from knowing what I am doing, but even with just a little knowledge I am able to do some pretty cool things. If you get a chance, take one of the DSP courses. There is a beginner course on PSE 7. It was very helpful. I don't know when they are going to do New Kids again, but that was amazing. I learned soooo much. HAve fun, and you got a great deal! Wow.

[dinaben99]

Dina, I just know you are really going to enjoy PSE 7. I bought it this Fall and I am still a long way from knowing what I am doing, but even with just a little knowledge I am able to do some pretty cool things. If you get a chance, take one of the DSP courses. There is a beginner course on PSE 7. It was very helpful. I don't know when they are going to do New Kids again, but that was amazing. I learned soooo much. HAve fun, and you got a great deal! Wow.

Have you had a chance to take that DSP class yet? I'm trying to figure out which one I should take and DSU 160 is a prereq, but it say's version 2-6, so I'll have to do a little research to find what I should take. I really need an intro to PSE 7 and digital scrapbooking. I'll also have to find out about NKOTB. Last time you mentioned it to me and I looked there was no info for a new class yet.

[Kathleen]

I'm an hour and bit north of Toronto.

Maybe something will pop up closer to home! There seem to be a lot of Michigan scrappers!

And, Hannah, glad you are starting to feel a little better!

Have you had a chance to take that DSP class yet? I'm trying to figure out which one I should take and DSU 160 is a prereq, but it say's version 2-6, so I'll have to do a little research to find what I should take. I really need an intro to PSE 7 and digital scrapbooking. I'll also have to find out about NKOTB. Last time you mentioned it to me and I looked there was no info for a new class yet.

I am pretty sure the class would cover PSE7 also, just PM the instructor and ask for guidance. It will be a great way to jump start you, and save some frustration!!

[ReneT]

Well hopefully Lisa they will get the salary thing worked out soon.

Hannah, glad to hear you are some better. Maybe the boys will turn the corner soon and start getting better too. Love the new avatar, it makes me smile.

[ReneT]

Oh my gosh, have you guys seen Nicole's Dreaming in Color kit in the store? I LOVE LOVE LOVE it! It is so colorful and fun!

[idtwinmom]

Still no word on the job! She did email yesterday and apologized, she was stuck in meetings all day again. At least she let us know that (it helps a little). He called on one of the other jobs he had applied for in Anchorage and was told his resume had been flagged for call back. Hopefully that is a good sign. So often you just seem to get lost in the shuffle. If we don't here by the first of the week, I will be urging him to call again.

Rene - I've been staying clear of the store! Even though I still have some of your gift left I want to make sure I have time to really use it! Don't want to spend just because I can. May have to go take a look at the new stuff though, just in case.....

[MyPinkFlipFlops]

Wow, this thread moves fast. Thanks for the well wishes everyone. Here is my round 3 LO.

Reflections of the Pas... (http://www.digitalscrapbookplace.com/forum/../gallery/showphoto.php?photo=308716&cat=500&ppuser=56318)

I'll be honest Rene, I'm not exactly sure what the DET all entails. I know they have to put out LOs every month and submit to other sites and magazines. I probably should figure that out if I make it to the finals, but this is my first time doing this contest so I wasn't too worried about making it!

Well, Baby Boots had the * snip snip * done yesterday. I pretty much was holding him all day, poor lil' guy. It's very hard to type one handed. :lol:

Sorry I'm not very chatty. If we were all in a room together I would be the one nodding and smiling in the corner. :yes:

However, since you can't see me it probably looks like I'm not even here.

[idtwinmom]

Flips - you are funny! I was very thankful my Mom was with me when my boys were snipped. Although, they seemed to have less problem with it than I did! I do recall them being just a bit cranky, but it didn't last long. I'm sure by now he's showing signs of being back to normal.

[MyPinkFlipFlops]

Yeah, I was surprised with how quickly he recovered. It's like it never even happened. I have to admit though I didn't watch! I made Sneaks do it. That's what husbands are for in my opinion. Do what I'm too chicken to do! He came and brought him to me right after though.

[ReneT]

Drew was supposed to be snipped before we checked out of the hospital, but the doctor who was going to do it was out of town, so we had to take him back a couple of days later. They put us in a hospital room and took him to the nursery, but we could hear him screaming when they strapped him to the board. When they brought him to me, he was just whimpering. But he seemed fine after that. Just a minor thing, compared to all the things women have to go through over the years. :)

[idtwinmom]

:lol: I never compared the two, Rene! How funny! Yes, given what we go through just to bring them into the world, it does seem minor. And birth is just the tip of the iceberg! :lol:

[Nicole Young]

Hey guys!!! Has spring break been CRAZY for everyone else!!!! I swear I have had NO down time so far!!!! I am looking forward to getting back to a normal schedule!!!! Hopefully after this weekend!!!! I hope everyone is doign well!!!

[idtwinmom]

That's funny Nicole - we are just starting spring break!

Brag Alert!

We had parent/teacher conferences for the boys this morning! I'm so proud of my guys! DD#1 reads at a whopping 69 words per minute and DD#2 reads at 58 words per minute. They can both count by 10's to 110, and add by 10's (ie: 12+10, etc). They do double digit addition and subtraction. Remember, they are in Kindergarten and are only 5 years old!

[dinaben99]

ok gals, this is why I keep falling off the map, this thread just goes so fast, I'm not on the computer that much.... :no:

I remember when my DS was clipped, it seemed fine, but later everyone else was concerned that is wasn't enough and kept telling us to have it done again:yikes: We talked to the Ped. and he said "just wait it out, he'll grow into it and be fine"; and he is fine. I couldn't imagine doing that to him again.

[idtwinmom]

To be honest - both our boys did have to have them done again because they healed wrong. They did it when they were a year old under anesthesia. They seemed a little sore for about a day or 2, but it wasn't traumatic or anything. (well, not for them!)

[shawsi]

My little one had the "procedure" right after birth. They said after all they had gone through at that point, they wouldn't even feel it. They lied....he screamed. I hated it.

We are just starting our Spring break after school tomorrow. I hope mine is a bit calmer than yours Nicole.

[ReneT]

Yay for your boys, Lisa, that's impressive!!!! :applause::applause::applause:

[wndyeliza]

I never had to go through that with only having girls. But the Grandson seemed to do pretty well, his mother on the other hand.....
When I am at work, I can pretty well separate the female/emotional part of what people go through from the nurse part of me. However, I don't do so well when it comes to my family.

[handkl]

Yeah, I was surprised with how quickly he recovered. It's like it never even happened. I have to admit though I didn't watch! I made Sneaks do it. That's what husbands are for in my opinion. Do what I'm too chicken to do! He came and brought him to me right after though.

They don't do it in the hospital here anymore. You have to be referred to urologist and the procedure is done in his office. We had to pay cash and have the exact amount. Kinda sound like you are going to a van in a back alley when they explained it all - must be cash, in and out in 10-15 min. Anyways, both boys had it done by the same doctor within a few weeks of their births. They took them back to a room and strap them down to table and when the procedure is done less than 2 min., we went back to the room for the post-op stuff. Both boys were bad the day of...and I of course, felt terrible!

LISA - that is awesome news about the kids. You must be so proud!

Just checking in quickly during a commercial on Leno - watching Obama.

[idtwinmom]

I never had to go through that with only having girls. But the Grandson seemed to do pretty well, his mother on the other hand.....
When I am at work, I can pretty well separate the female/emotional part of what people go through from the nurse part of me. However, I don't do so well when it comes to my family.

I think that is a nurse thing! There is a very funny story about my Mom, who was a pediatric nurse for years. She always figured she could handle anything because of all she had to see at work. But one day she had me and my sister in the bath, step 3 feet away to answer the door, I tried to stand (was just learning) and grabbed the tap. Hot water went down my back causing some pretty bad burns. Mom totally panicked and what ever anybody said she contradicted: Dad, "it's bad, lets take her to the hospital". Mom, "No, its not that bad, I can take care of it". Dad, "OK, if you think you can take care of her...." Mom, "No way, we need to get this child to the hospital". It went on that way all night!

[shawsi]

I think it is that way with any field. When it comes to our own....oh my. I am a lot better teacher with my special ed kids at school, but when my own were going through school I was impatient and a bit frustrated. My husband did much better with them.

[dinaben99]

:yes: I have to agree too, we're more put together when it's our "job" or "someone else's issue" it's a whole other story when our emotions get in the middle of our judgement.

[wndyeliza]

We're supposed to have good judgement when we're emotional....oh, oh,...I missed that memo!
I'm gonna try to put my creative place back into some type of order today after getting half of it painted . I switched colors from a yellow to a neutral medium tan and new curtains being a tan/gold/pewter plaid. The DH came in and announced that he didn't like it and in everything that he's ever seen me do, this is the worst. That was followed up with "but its your room". I had to giggle. This is the man who for the 12 years I've known him hasn't done anything to the house and left it the way it was when his folks lived here cause "I don't know if I'd pick the right color" kinda stuff....silly man.

[handkl]

Have fun Wendy!

[wndyeliza]

How are ya feeling Hannah? Are you and your family feeling better?

[ReneT]

My DH and I have an unwritten, unspoken rule. I get to do what I want with the inside decorating, and he gets to do what he wants with the yard and flowerbeds. Which works good for me, because I'm not a big fan of the critters that lurk outside (ie: mice and frogs). It works for us.

[idtwinmom]

Wendy - you always make me laugh! And I bet it feels really good to be typing "DH"!

[shawsi]

You are very good natured about that Wendy. It sounds very nice...warm cozy colors. Good working environment for scrapping all those wedding pictures. Maybe your DH has to see the whole picture before he can really visualize it. lol

Hope you are all feeling better Hannah.

Rene, I know how you feel about the critters. I don't like the spiders or snakes. Ugh! I much prefer my 'puter.

Anything new, Lisa? Has your DH gotten an answer yet?

Well, spring has officially sprung in this hemisphere. It actually is starting to feel like it a bit today. I am also officially on Spring break. A whole week off. I am going to celebrate by scrapping tonight...and I even think I will update my flair.

Tomorrow my DH and family are meeting at a gunshow...now, you know I am biting at the bit to do this, don't you? I just can't wait. I love being with the family, but will be glad when we are done with the show. Later in the week DH and I are heading south to go antiquing. Now I have much more fun doing that.

So how are your weekends shaping up everyone?

What does the weekend have in store with all of you?

[idtwinmom]

Shawsi - thanks for thinking of us. Believe it or not, we still have not heard a word. I'm just about dieing here. To keep from going stir crazy, we have come up with a plan. We work on the house in the mornings, clearing, preparing for a garage sale, that sort of thing, with a touch of packing in the mix. Then in the afternoon we do computer stuff. Although if we don't here soon, that all may change as I'm not sure about paying for the internet. Gotta be real!

The kids are on spring break too! So there is a bit of extra work there! :lol:

[Nicole Young]

Hey guys! Just popping in!!! Hubby found out that his entire work had a pay decrease :( I am thankful that he didnt lose his job! Thats for sure!!! But its scary, none the less!!!! But I know God will help us make ends meet! I just have to move all my fears out of the way and let Him work!!! I have the tendency of getting in the way sometimes!!! LOL

I am excited to have a VERY calm weekend ahead of me, so I can sit down and get some work and scrapping done!! This week has been none stop GO GO GO!!!! I need a nice break!!! So glad that my "work" is relaxing to me!!! LOL Ok...off to Bible Study! Our friends who are hosting tonight made some pizza for the group!! YUM!!!! (Did I mention though that I had pizza for lunch??? One can NEVER have too much pizza though right?????)

[shawsi]

Shawsi - thanks for thinking of us. Believe it or not, we still have not heard a word. I'm just about dieing here. To keep from going stir crazy, we have come up with a plan. We work on the house in the mornings, clearing, preparing for a garage sale, that sort of thing, with a touch of packing in the mix. Then in the afternoon we do computer stuff. Although if we don't here soon, that all may change as I'm not sure about paying for the internet. Gotta be real!

The kids are on spring break too! So there is a bit of extra work there! :lol:

That is so sad. I sure hope you hear something soon. That really does make one nervous. Sounds like you have lots to do though, with the kids and the clearing out mission. Nicole had some pretty good advice in her last post about "moving all the fears" aside and letting God work. He will and all will be well.:yes:

Rene, did you meet your son? Did all go well if you did?

[wndyeliza]

Pizza....the four basic food groups in one nifty package! LOVE DA PIZZA!

Lisa, want us to send Guido the knuckle dragger to go have a "talk" with the nice lady? Maybe she will be able to use the calculator and the phone at the same time to tell you what the salary offer is. And WE are supposed to be able to multi-task better then men...she is sure fooling me....(grumbles for Lisa and her DH) And yes, it is really nice to type that!

[shawsi]

Wendy, I just went to your blog. (Thought I might find wedding pictures. Hint hint.) I love your music and you made me cry. Your story about the man losing his wife tore me up, and your story of your love and friendship with your DH was so touching. Best wishes and you certainly have a gift as a nurse. That man will never ever forget you and your support and kindness.

[ReneT]

I'm sorry to hear your news Nicole. It is such a scary time. It seems like every day more and more people I know are affected. I will say some prayers for you and your family. You too, Lisa. I know it is driving you nuts not to know what is going on.

No, I didn't have lunch with DS. He got offered an "all expenses paid" trip to go with his friend to Houston to a car rally (he loves cars), so he went. Tonight the girls came over for dinner. My MIL was supposed to come too, but she got busy cleaning out some old papers, so she cancelled. But the four of us had a nice dinner.

No big plans for the weekend, just need to do my homework tomorrow and take the girls to get something to wear for our family portrait that's coming up.

[jemtred]

Well, today its raining and yesterday it was raining which is already too much rain! We normally get huge downpours followed by sunshine not 2 days of solid rain. Jack was going stir crazy but hubby took him out shopping. Thea is still sleeping (3 hours now!) and is getting over colds/flu/bronchitus etc. She has put on weight and is now 6 kg which is nearly 2 pounds on in a week.. what a star.
Glad to hear the zeroes are still around even if I dont make it quite so often.
Lisa, hope the job thing gets sorted and you get your move back.
Wendy - great to hear form you and that it all went well down Mexico way
Nicole - so sorry about the pay decrease. It must be a real worry for you but pizza is a good consolation. We have made Thursday night pizza night here as hubby too tired to cook (he does his karaoke compereing until the early hours and is currently doing a day job too - it is his turn!)
Did I mention its still raining....