Tutus&GlueDots

31 Things

2012-05-24T06:38:00.001-07:00

So I started the Ali Edwards 31 Things class. I am already behind – LOL! That’s okay. For me, the whole point of this class was to write down some personal things for my daughter to read when she is older. I think it will be awesome to look back and see what I was thinking/feeling at this point in my life. My story will certainly be different in a year, two years, 10 years, I can’t wait to see what it holds for me, but for now, this class will document me in the here and now.

Here are the first three entries so far. I thought I would share them.

That’s all I have. If you would please send prayers this way, there is a lot going on over here and I need all the prayers I can get. Everyone is healthy and fine, just some things that need to get attended to. So if you could just send some positive vibes my way, I would be greatly appreciative.

Have a wonderful day!

Michelle

Photo a Day

2012-05-23T06:23:00.001-07:00

Another week (or so) of photos.

I had quite a bit of filling in of this calendar. But nothing too bad. Here is the breakdown.

Day 11|Kitchen

Day 12|Something that makes me happy

I love taking photos. Part of the fun od it is editing the pictures. This was the perfect opportunity to show that.

Day 13|Mom

Since I had my grandma there, I thought we should take a photo together.

Day 14|Grass

Day 15|Love

For this photo, I originally wanted to take a picture of Alyson and I together. But she wasn’t having any of it. Instead, she flashed the I love you sign in sign language. That works.

Day 16|What I’m Reading

I was going to go with a book, but I went with what is most current right now, blogs. I always catch up on my favorite bloggers through google reader.

Day 17|Snack

A Grande, Tripe, Iced, Nonfat Caramel Machiatto – yummm

Day 18|Something I made

I made this table runner a whole ago. I love how colorful it is. I brought it out to spruce up the place for summer.

Day 19|A Favorite Place

This is one of my favorite places. My favorite place would have to be here, at home. But lately, we have had so much fun hanging out at the park.

Day 20|Something I can’t live without

No brainer. I need my coffee.

Day 21|Where I stand

I wasn’t sure where I was going to take this one. But I went with a combo of literal figuratively. Proud of my reader and how much she loves books.

Day 22|Pink

I was hoping for a collage of pink things. But I never got it done. But this pretty flower will do.

Here are the past months if you want to take a peek.

Have a wonderful Wednesday!!

Michelle

Project Life|Week 13&a Freebie

2012-05-22T06:42:00.001-07:00

So I’m back with week 13 and a freebie!

So for this week, I used some of my new purchases. Click here to see.

And the freebie is the little itunes cut. I needed something to go in the pocket, next to Mr.Beiber. Click on the photo to download the cut. Enjoy!

That’s all for now!

Michelle

Project Life|Week 12

2012-05-21T06:15:00.001-07:00

I had some free time this weekend to finish up weeks 12 and 13 of Project Life. It felt so good to create.

You will have to excuse the coloring on these. I took them during the solar eclipse(I realized that later). But you get the idea.

As you can see, I chose to do a lot of my journaling before I actually scrapped. I knew there was a bit more to say about the stories behind the photos, so it makes it much easier.

A lot of phone photos this week as well. I am making myself get better at that. Anyone else find it hard?

I will be back with a freebie tomorrow!

InLinkz.com

Black and White

2012-05-20T13:09:00.001-07:00

At the beginning of the month, we headed to Chuck-e-Cheeses’ with my good friend Monica and her 2 little ones. We headed out early. I realize now, that I am coming into a different stage in motherhood where getting up at the crack of dawn is not the norm. And so, when she said we could meet when it opened at 9:30(?), I was a little afraid to make the commitment. LOL! But things worked out so that we had to go at that time.

Monica had never been there, and it was a pleasure showing her around. Turns out, we had the place to ourselves, and Chuck-e-Cheese is rather tolerable at this time. :)

Here is our time there through Black and white photos (hence the title).

The kiddos played while I entertained myself with this cutie.

I couldn’t get back far enough, but I still love this shot.

As it happens, the manager was checking all of the games to make sure the tickets worked. When he did this, tickets would come out. Alyson figured this out and followed him around to collect tickets.

Yeah, she is ignoring me;)

They were having fun here. As you can see, no one was there. Perfection!

Miss Lauren is no easy cookie when it comes to smiling. She is stingy with them and I was working her for all I could, to get a smile.

Look at those teeth:)

Ha ha. Think I got a giggle here.

Finally, the kiddos ran out of tokens, and it was time to trade them in for some cheap toy, LOL!

They decided to play for a bit. It was nice because it gave Monica and I some time to chat.

All in all, I would say that we will have to do this again in the summer. I will have to get up early and beat the crowds.

Have a great Sunday!

Michelle

Sort of Wordless Wednesday

2012-05-16T22:25:00.001-07:00

It’s still Wednesday. Well at least for the next two hours. I am busily editing some newborn photos and I came across this one.

I remember her saying that she wasn’t tired. Ha! I came back to this. I love her. That’s all.

Michelle

So, I meant to post this last night

2012-05-15T19:45:00.001-07:00

I usually try to pre-post my blog posts the night before, and sometimes even sooner. 99% of the time, that doesn’t happen. I am hoping that this summer, I will be better. So, this post was supposed to go live this a.m., but I was too lazy and took to catching up on emails, and you know, getting ready. Ha!

Well, with all that being said, I am posting tonight. It is my momma night, I get to have free reign of the house. And if you are a momma, you know what that means. Ha! So here I am blogging, watching the Bachelorette, and trying to free some space on my iphone, because I really need to upgrade, but I am trying to hold out for the 5. Sigh, but I digress. Back to my post.

Mother’s Day. What a fun day! Woke up and finished some editing before Alyson came home. She was so excited to share her gifts with me. She made me the cutest garden brick, that I will take a photo of soon. And she went to Brighton to get me these.

She is so cute. I love to see the ones she picks out for me. I have to say, my charm bracelet is getting pretty heavy:)

We headed out to my mom’s house for some yummy food and some good company.

My mom gifted Alyson with a notepad. Oh, how she loves notepads. She went right to work on her presentation that she had to do on Monday. Did I tell you? She had to pick a V.I.P. person to do a report/presentation on, and she chose Miranda Cosgrove, a.k.a iCarly. LOL! I didn’t even try to dissuade her, she knows what she wants. So, here we were trying to figure out exactly what she was going to say.

Then, I made her look at me for a photo:) I love this girl so much. I am completely blessed to be her mamma. I am in complete denial that she is turning 8 this summer! Sigh!

My mom made some pretty vases, isnpired by me, inspired by Pinterest, LOL!

Not sure of the look mom was going for, but at least she got a new hat – LOL! She makes me laugh!

I tried to get a photo of Alyson and my sister. This was the best one.

Nice.

Here is my mom reading the survey that Alyson filled out for her. It made us all laugh.

After a bit, we went inside to ~~take a nap~~ enjoy some family time, and this is what my sister started doing.

Coupon organizing! LOL! I make fun of her, but not too loudly incase she ever grows a stockpile like those on t.v. and I need to go shopping at her house. So, sister, if you’re reading this, your coupon binder is the BEST I’ve seen! ;)

Thanks Steve, for this one. I never remember to take one of us both.

This is our “normal”

My grandma came over too! She makes me laugh so hard. LOL! She was striking a pose for all my other shots – ha!

And let me show you what I treated myself to for Mother’s Day.

A Lisa Leonard necklace. I believe I treated myself to one last year too. I love the quality, and this necklace is no exception. I have wanted a more substantial cross, but couldn’t find one. Actually, I did around Christmas, it was a Brighton one, but it wasn’t in the budget. When I went back to get it, it was gone:( But that’s okay, I think I was just meant to have this one.

Oh, and I also signed up for this class.

I have been wanting to make some kind of in depth album, but really didn’t know where to start. I think this is the perfect answer. Let me know if you join, would love to work along side someone.

Okay, well off to watch some Real Housewives. :0

Michelle

Project 366|Photo a Day

2012-05-12T09:01:00.001-07:00

So it’s already May 12th! Wow! We are counting down to the last days of school. Yipee!

Here is what I have so far this month.

Here is the breakdown.

Day 1: Peace

This was total coincidence. I was actually going to have Alyson flash me a peace sign, and then I noticed her top. Perfect. And I love these before school shots. I love to see her outfit choices.

Day 2: Skyline

Took this one on the way home. Love this view.

Day 3: Something I wore today

A new shirt I bought at Old Navy.

Day 4: Fun

LOL! This one makes me laugh. We made sombreros and mustaches in class. I had to model them. My kiddos loved them!

Day 5: Bird

Just a little birdie that is around my house all year.

Day 6: Me

Day 7: Someone that inspires me

There are many people that inspire me, but this girl inspired me to be a better person, for her.

Day 8: A smell I adore

Coffee, LOVE it!

Day 9: something I do everyday

Make-up. In varying degrees, but I always have some form of face paint on.

Day 10: A favorite word

That’s it! Still hanging in there!

Have a wonderful Saturday!

Michelle

Week 11 and a Video

2012-05-10T06:40:00.001-07:00

Hi there! So week 11 is ready. As you can see, I went with a little more of a pastel look.

Again, I used many iphone pics. They did their job, so all is good.

I realized that I didn’t get many St.Patrick’s Day photos, but I did get photos of the trap Alyson made. I merged them together to make a “before and after” photo.
I am currently working on Week 12 – yay! Hopefully I can crank out 2 more, but things are not looking that promising with a photoshoot and Mother’s Day this weekend. But, we shall see.
Before I go, I made a quick video of some things that I just got from 2 peas. Don’t know what possessed me to make one, but here it is. Don’t laugh:)

Project Life|Week 10

2012-05-09T06:46:00.001-07:00

I made it into the double digits – yay! Here it is.

This color scheme of Red, Pink, and Green reminds me of strawberries.
I have a page insert on this one. There were too many fun photos of Alyson and her friends to not print them.

In the back of the pocket, I included the show program.

This is the view without the insert. I didn’t have as many photos as I would have liked, but thank goodness for my iphone. almost all came from there.

And some close-ups.

I just realized that it looks like it says “Silly Week 10” ha! Didn’t mean to do that.

I used a lot of Pink Paislee on this layout.
That’s all! Have a wonderful day!
Michelle

Just being a kid

2012-05-07T06:37:00.001-07:00

Do you remember being a kid and just getting dirty, playing with mud, water, anything that let you pretend you were a waitress, scientist, etc.? Well I do, although it was limited because my mom never liked me getting dirty-ha! I have always encouraged Alyson to just have fun with no worry about getting dirty. Well, as I was going through photos from the last month, I found these.

We signed Alyson up for a science class after school. They did some cool experiments and there was one that she wanted to try.

This “experiment” required cornstarch. I bought some while at Target. She was so excited to “play” I had no idea what she was going to do, but she did - LOL!

She took bowls, water, and who knows what else and just started playing. I was smart enough to tell her to go outside. I was in the kitchen while she was playing. Well, when I went out to check on her, I went right back to get the camera.

She was having the time of her life. She used that entire box of cornstarch. I let her. She was just having fun. I loved it. I would much rather her be “experimenting” than inside watching t.v.

Let me tell you, this was not easy to clean up, but so worth it. Makes me look forward to summer when we can really just have fun and do some “real science experiments.”

Have a great day!

Michelle

Project 366|Photo a Day

2012-05-02T06:25:00.001-07:00

First, I want to start by wishing my mom a happy Birthday!! Love you!

So another month down. Yay! Here is the entire month.

Day 26|Black and White

This one, I was struggling with. I didn’t want to take a photo and just turn it black and white. And that is exactly what I was going to do until I looked up and noticed that this wall had some black and white on it! Perfect!

Day 27|Somewhere I went

I actually went lots of places that day, like Starbucks, etc. But I took the easy way you. I took photos at work. My classroom. All of these were taken from my desk.

Day 28|1pm

I wish my 1pm was little more exciting. I woke up early to get an oil change and all my errands were done by noon. So this is what I was doing at 1pm. Editing.

Day 29|Circles

Well it can’t get any yummier than this. Nuff said.

Day 30|Something that makes me sad.

Well, this one makes me laugh. Look at how many alarms I have ready, just in case LOL!

That’s it! The entire month, complete!

I thought I would show everything I have completed so far.

On to month 5!

Have a great Day!

Michelle

Project Life|Week 9

2012-04-30T05:00:00.000-07:00

Finally, I am posting Week 9. Whew! I have been busy editing photos for clients and no extra time to create. It takes a bit more time to scrap these week long pages, but I love it!

I really like the color combo that I worked into this spread. Kind of different.
I also added in an insert, for Alyson’s President Project and then a photo I received for Parent Appreciation Week at her school (how awesome is that?)

Here is the spread with the insert.

As I was printing my photos for this week. Everything was kind of neutral until I saw the March décor pics. I took those pics with the intention of putting them in this album. The green threw me for a loop, but I do like the end result.

I used some Pink Paislee Alphas for this (I believe it was the Halloween line). I also pulled out my cuddlebug. I made that pretty distressed paper.

This go round, I decided to use text on my photos before I printed. Changing it up a bit. I like it!

After I had my color combos picked, it was super easy to pick embellishments. I just went by color. This lime is the perfect emebllie for this empty space.

Here is the insert. I did not intentionally print that top photo so the would both be wrong, but I had forgotten about the large photo and it just had to do. It tells the story, that’s all that matters.

So the best part of putting this together was that I found a stash of unsed thickers and embellies from American Crafts. Yay!! Found those green ones in there. They were perfect for the title.

I got this photo sent home on Friday of Parent Appreciation week. I love it! They even used pattern paper that went with my color scheme. And that was not on purpose. I guess just meant to be.

Here is the reverse side of the insert. The left has a note from Alsyon’s teacher, and the right is a phone pic I took of Alyson turning in her project. The awesome part about having a phone, is that I took this about a week and half after the photos on the reverse were taken. I knew I wanted to include them in this story in one neat “package” so I printed it out and stuck it in here. I think I might have forgotten about it or not taken the photo without my phone.

Almost done, whew! So my week nine svg cut went on this page.

That’s it! So fun! I have my week 10 photos ready-yup! Ready to tackle that this week, and maybe more!
Before I go, I notice that people that pin my PL pages tend to discuss the color combos. I am thinking of doing a post on how I choose my colors. Would that interest any of you? Please let me know.
Have a wonderful day!
Michelle

Photo a Day|Project 366

2012-04-25T22:17:00.001-07:00

I figured I might as well title it with both names, seeing as I use the two interchangeably. I can’t believe that this month is almost over. I am ready for May, and to start getting ready for the summer! Yay! But for now, I type this, and go back to laminating projects for school, LOL!

I am not sure if I posted the list of photos, but here it is. Here is what I have so far.

And the details. I followed all of the prompts, but when it came time to type them up on the photos, I changed up the titles a bit.

Day 16|Flower

This one just was a lucky shot. Alyson isn’t really as tired looking, I think it was the editing I used. But I love this shot.

Day 17|Something I don’t like, a.k.a. Dislike

I mean, really. I sometimes think twice about going places that are a bit to travel, because I don’t want to pay for gas! Thank goodness for good shopping here!

Day 18|Hair

My hair style of choice these days. My hair is getting really long. I have been to ~~cheap~~ lazy to get it cut. I will though, OR it will be like this all summer- ha!

I took this right before the kiddos went out to recess. See the blacktop? Well it is edited a bit, but now you know where I was.

Day 19|Orange

So this one came about on accident. Alyson had picked one our roses a couple days earlier to keep in her room. She brought it to my desk to show me it was still “alive”. I noticed the color was orange-ish, so I set it down right on top of my photography calendar which was also orange-ish and snapped a photo. I thought it was so pretty!

Day 20|Something I Drew

So this one, is my drawing 100%. It hangs on my AtoZ wall. It was actually copied from something I saw on Pinterest. So although it isn’t my original idea, I did draw it – ha!

Day 21|Bottle(s)

Some of my perfume bottles. Nothing fancy, but they all smell yummy!

Day 22|The Last Thing I Bought a.k.a. Just Purchased

While at Target, I spotted this beauty on an end cap. I LOOVED the colors. For 10bucks, you can’t go wrong. Their eye shadows are pretty decent quality.

Day 23|Vegetable a.k.a Veggies

Ummm, all I have to say is, thank goodness we went to ate Souplantation for dinner – LOL!

Day 24|Grateful

I was actually going to go with a photo of Alyson for this one, and then decided to go for a different perspective. We all KNOW that I am grateful to be her momma everyday, so there is no denying that. I went with this surprise gift I got in the mail the day before. There is something to be said about small surprises that make your day, grateful for those.

Day 25|Looking Down a.k.a. From above

Renamed this one simply because I forgot the actual prompt. Ha! But this is looking at Jax, our cat that was begging for treats. yes, my cat begs.

Whew! Done for the week! I will have a wrap up post for the month next week! Have a great day!

Michelle

Vintage Instagram Storage

2012-04-25T06:51:00.001-07:00

Hey there! Posting my finds from our visit to the antique store. We didn’t get much, but I think we scored!

These three goodies came home with us. Each Tiffany blue item was 50% off and the book was too cute to pass up, so it came with us.

I had never heard of this series, or even knew it was a series until I posted a pic to instagram. My friend Virginia said she used to love this series. I thought the colors were perfect for either Alyson’s room, or to have out during the Spring. Love it either way.

I think I may have to read this with Alyson this summer!

Next, this beautiful file box. I think it was on sale because it didn’t lock securely, sold! I am thinking of using as a magazine holder anyway.

Then came this album

First, the color was perfect, and it was in great condition. As I was flipping through it, I was reminded of old albums my mom had. This one looked like it had never been used. Right away, I noticed the size of the photo sheaths and I knew what I would use it for.

Yay! Perfect, right?

I printed a few of my favorite Instagram photos to see how it would work.

They were a perfect fit! I printed them 3.5x3.5. That’s it!

I didn’t put them in any particular order, I just wanted to see how it would work out.

There is even room to jot a note about each photo. I will attempt that later when I know exactly where I want to start.

I can’t wait to fill this up! I will definitely be on the lookout for more of these!

That’s all I have today. Thankful it is Wednesday, and ready for it to be Friday, LOL! Have a great one!

Michelle

Antiquing|Spring Break Day 4

2012-04-24T06:42:00.001-07:00

So, after a restful day 3, I was feeling better and ready to do a bit of shopping with A. She loves going to “drift” stores and antique stores. There is a specific store that she always asks to go to, so I thought it would be a great way to spend the morning.

Alyson loves old typewriters. She calls them writing things. Ha! I don’ t blame the girl, I wanted this one too, just out of our daily limit, sigh.

This file cabinet was calling my name. I really wanted to buy it, the price was right, I just couldn’t commit. Regretting it now. But I am sure another is out there for me!

So pretty! Each vendor has their “corner” set up to their liking, some are adorable and you don’t even want to touch. But not Alyson, she loves it all and wants to examine everything.

I have a weakness for these vintage stitched towels. This one would have been perfect for Easter, but the price was a little too high.

Ahh, we both wanted this doll, but it was a bit too expensive. Isn’t she adorable? I would like her with the chair and hat too.

This register was a winner. I think I had it when I was little. OR I just remember playing with one. I would have snatched this one up if it was in better condition.

Can you see me? Ha! Can you also see my blingy shirt? Alyson wanted me to wear my “Soccer Mom” shirt. Who was I to argue?

In the back of this store, there is a garden area where they hose some motorhomes and a patio where they have various celebrations. I would love to go back at night with all the white bulbs lit up.

My partner in crime.

This beauty greeted us when we came back inside. She wanted it so badly. Sorry girl, wish I could’ve bought it:)

We did get some goodies that I will share tomorrow. I got some good deals and am especially excited about one of my finds.

This is what she got,

She got this not so antique stuffed bunny. Ha! It is cute though! She took it everywhere that day. Even to our trip to Home Depot, where we bought some pretty flowers.

It was such a relaxing day. Looking at these photos makes me want to go back and look for more treasures, but alas, I need to limit my visits there:)

Thanks for stopping in! Have a wonderful Tuesday!

Michelle

Spring Break|Day 3

2012-04-23T06:56:00.001-07:00

So, before I get started, I just want to point out that I have blogged 6 days in a row (I took yesterday off). Yay me! I am hoping that this will be the norm from now on, but we shall see.

I am once again, going back to Spring Break. So if you don’t want to hear anymore, sorry. On Wednesday, Mike’s mom came over for a girly visit. She always comes to spend some time with Alyson over our breaks. I still wasn’t feeling that hot, but knew I had to make the most of it for Alyson. Plus, I knew that Penny would spend some time playing with Alyson so I could rest for a bit.

We started with lunch at Farrell’s. we have been only once before on New Year’s Day. This was Alyson’s second go, and she was soooo ready.

We got in right away, and avoided the rain. I LOVE this place! It brings back so many good memories of my childhood.

Alyson wanted me to photograph the hats that she made for the ketchup…

and mustard! LOL!

Is she excited to be there, or what?? I was over the moon that she wanted her headband on. She prefers to have her hair down and in her face so that she looks like a ragamuffin – LOL!

Penny took this one of us. Notice my watery eyes and no make-up! Ha! I still love it though.

Since I took lunch photos last time, I went for the dessert this time. Yumm! This is Alyson’s clown sundae.

And of course, I thought ice cream would make me feel better ;) so I got a banana royale, which is just ice cream with banana slices.

Alyson ate every bit of that sundae, I may have too, but I have since forgotten;)

We stopped by the candy bar before we left.

and one last shot before we left.

We lucked out with the rain stopping when we finished. Took these on our trek back.

Sharing candy with grandma.

And stopping to admire the white picket fence. She LOVES white picket fences. A girl after my own heart.

Lunch was so good, thanks Penny! Alyson still talks about it. We came back home where Alyson and Penny played for who knows how long, because I took a nap! Thanks again Penny! This was definitely a highlight for Miss A!

Have a wonderful Monday!

Michelle

Spring Break|Day2

2012-04-21T08:35:00.001-07:00

Hey friends! Saturday at last! Sitting here bright and early, why is it so much easier to get up on the weekend? I even get up early when I don’t need to. Maybe it’s because I like to make the most of every minute? This morning I am getting some last minute details ready for a photography session, but before I go, I thought I would create a quick post.

Yes, I am still documenting Spring Break, I took a lot of photos, so I must! This was Tuesday, when the weather was beautiful, and I knew I wanted to take Alyson out before the rain came on Wednesday. Before we headed out, we baked a batch of cupcakes.

This was a batch of Easter cupcake mix that we were supposed to use on Easter, but plans got changed:( We put them to good use though. Alyson loves funfetti cupcakes.

Around lunchtime, I thought we could go to the park and enjoy a picnic. I figured I could make it through an hour and let Alyson get some energy out. Well, the hour turned into 3. It was so beautiful out.

She played, ate lunch,played, and soaked up the sun.

I couldn’t get enough of the pretty light under the trees.

While she was playing, I did a lot of reading. I finished up this book while there.

If you haven’t heard of it, it’s a book by Kelle Hampton. I can’t tell you when I started reading her blog, but it seems like forever. Click here to visit. I LOVE her beautiful photos and her amazing writing. This book was a quick, and beautifully written book. I would definitely recommend this book. AND it has beautiful photos throughout the book, I loved it.

While I read, Alyson played and then was just content soaking up the warmth of the sun. I pulled out my Kindle for her to read.

It was a very relaxing day, and one that I needed. I don’t think it’s coincidence that this set of photos is one of my favorites. I think it really represents how silly, serious, and beautiful she is. I love her.

This is my favorite photo of the day. Relaxed, toothless, and beautiful.

This one is a favorite too, not in focus because she was making me laugh too hard. But I love it none the less.

We had a beautiful and relaxing day. I can’t wait to do it again.

Have a wonderful Saturday.

Michelle

A field trip & Jog-a-thon

2012-04-20T06:49:00.001-07:00

Friday, at last! I love Friday’s! Can’t wait until 2:30. As you know, I accompanied Alyson on her class field trip. We watched a play. It was cute. Alyson thought it was a bit boring, but I think she is a bit spoiled by the Aladdin show at Disneyland. LOL! I didn’t get many photos, but I did get these.

I did take some photos of the architecture in the theatre. It was neat.

After the play, they kiddos headed back while I grabbed Alyson some lunch. I headed home for a bit and then right back to school for the Jog-a-thon. It was a warm day here and it felt like summer (I can’t wait).

I have no idea why they wanted to run with their water bottles. In fact, there was water cups being passed out as they ran around. LOL! I did grab the water from her and told her to keep going.

She made sure to get her laps marked. She was lucky enough to have her dad get sponsors from work, and only one poor soul decided to pay by the lap- LOL!

Notice her Bella Ballerina shoes? Hehe, I love my girl.

They ran for about 20 minutes. After, they were all so tired! Especially Alyson because the was “training” the night before.

She decided to Jump Rope, jog in place, and attempted to life weights(Only I wouldn’t give them to her). I was giggling. She said she had to get strong for the Jog-a-thon. I warned her that she was only going to get tired and sore. Of course she didn’t believe me, ha! And she definitely was sore yesterday.

The girl’s put the water bottles to good use and poured them over their heads.

After they drank water, they got to have some chips and a root beer float. Yummm!

It was fun to be able to be there to watch her. Mike has been the one to go to these things in the years past.

Have a great Friday! It’s the weekend! it is supposed to be a hot one here! I have a photoshoot scheduled and then, some crafting – that’s it! That’s my favorite kind of weekend!

Michelle

Spring Break–Day 1

2012-04-19T07:47:00.001-07:00

So, hello! I am writing this bright and early this morning. You see, I am going on a field trip with my girl today. She also has a jog-a-thon, which I will not be running in, but taking plenty of photos.

As you know, I was sick over Spring Break, but I planned on making the most of it for Alyson. I had grand plans on going to some museums, etc. But that wasn’t going to happen. One place Alyson has been bugging me to take her, was to the book store. I LOVE the book store and still miss Borders so much. So I told her that over Spring Break we could go.

First, we stopped to get some Jamba Juice. When I am sick, this is what I crave. I always get the Cold Buster full of vitamins. Alyson favors the Peach Pleasure.

We finally made our way over to the bookstore. Now, let me preface this by saying that Alyson has tons of books. She also has access to many books at her level through me. BUT, there is nothing like buying a brand new book from the bookstore. While she perused the books, I grabbed Tori Spelling’s new party book to thumb through.

After we paid for the book, we enjoyed the warm sunshine and she started reading her new book.

I have to say, that I was miserable at this point. I just wanted to go home and sleep, but I stuck it out for quite a while.

It was a simple outing, but one that made her happy.

That’s all for today!

Michelle

Photo a Day

2012-04-17T21:49:00.001-07:00

Hey there! Am I the only one that feels like tomorrow should be Friday already? LOL! The longest week evaaa!

When I went to update my photo a day calendar, I realized that I saved the jpeg, but not the png file. And all that means, is that I couldn’t edit and add to my photos, I had to start from scratch! Ack! But all is well, luckily it didn’t take me too long.

I was really proud of myself this past week. Even though I was yucko sick, I still managed to take a photo. I did lag a bit in editing them and posting them, but they were all taken. Yay!

Okay, here is the run down.

Day 7|Shadow

I knew I didn’t want a shadow picture of my large self, so I insisted on my favorite model. She happened to be wearing her bunny ears around the house. I just wanted those, but she insisted on the basket, I love her.

Day 8|Wallet

Well, really it was “inside your wallet” but I didn’t want to blur out anything, etc. So I took a photo of my wallet. Close enough, plus, it’s empty! LOL!

Day 9|Little Me

So this one-LOL! I knew what photo I would use. For Alyson’s birthday, my mom bought Alyson a wallet. She included her usual $2 bill, but also included this photo of me when I was 7. LOL! I laugh at all that hair! And I am sure that is some kind of velour dress. I remember loving those hair clips. AND I also notice that I had my BIG teeth already.

Day 10|COLD

Well this one was easy. I documented my close companions while I was sick. I remember this day feeling exceptionally yucky.

Day 11|Where I Ate Breakfast

My mother-in-law came over and brought Alyson and I some goodies. There was a blueberry muffin from Costco, yum! I actually ate it!

Day 12|Stairs

We were actually places where the stairs were pretty cool, but forgot to take a photo. So this one had to do. My girl with her super long pants.

Day 13|Something I found

So, more on this soon. But Alyson and I found these goodies while antiquing last week.

Day 14|How I feel

Just jotted this down. My face was not appropriate for even my phone camera – LOL!

Day 15|Sunset

Alyson and I went walking to snag this pic. Fun shot!

That’s all for now! Whew. Thanks for checking in!

Michelle

Awards Ceremony

2012-04-16T23:03:00.001-07:00

So the Friday before Easter Break, we had a teacher furlough day. Which you get down to the core of it, is not that great, but it turned in my favor because I got to see Alyson receive an award. You see, taking a half day, or leaving early, is usually not as easy as it sounds. Mike usually goes to represent us both, which, by the way, is awesome. He takes photos and represents us on the parent front. But this time, I got to go! Yeah! I didn’t let Alyson know. I dropped her off and told her I would bring her the lunch I promised, McDonald’s. I cam back ready to watch my girl accept her award.

Here she is walking out the the assembly. Her school is very small and assemblies are held on the grass in front of the office. Can I tell you how much I love it? Okay, so here she is glancing at me. Notice the outfit? I thought it was super cute, she put it together.

Well I expected her to run and shout in slow motion, “Mommy, so glad you are here!" In stead I got more if this.

Ha! At least I got a smile. Trying to hide behind her friend. And any family that is reading this, notice how Alyson’s classmates are all taller than her?

*My family always comments on how tall Alyson is.

I would like to say that this was the point where she wanted me to run over and hug her, but she was probably saying something like “OMG mom, the camera again?”

They were actually getting ready to say a prayer and sing a spring song for us.

They are singing here.

After the perrrty song, they sat to listen to the awards. We don’t know beforehand what award they will be receiving, we just know that they will be getting one. Last time it was for honor roll.

She should know by now that playing with her hair ain’t going to stop this momma from taking 500 photos. LOL!

She got an award for staying at the top of the “clip chart” more than 10 times. That is a big feat. There were only 2 from her class. This makes my heart happy, because although she as smart as a whip, she also has got some spunk in her. I always tell her she needs to behave at school, ALWAYS. We take it very serious, and so does she.

Awe, there, she is finally looking at me! Love her to pieces!

So tired this Monday evening, off to sleep! Have a wonderful Tuesday!

Michelle

Project Life|Week 8

2012-04-15T21:03:00.001-07:00

So I have been out of commission this past week, boo! But, I have taken it all in stride, knowing that if I would have been in school, I would have been miserable. Calling in a sub, is usually more work than sticking it out at school. Sooooo, I have a couple projects in progress that have a deadline, What??? I know, it’s been so long. I hope to share those soon.

For now, here are my Week 8 Project Life layouts.

I went with a lighter color scheme here. The Week 8 doesn’t “pop” as much, but I like the change of color scheme.

As I was putting this week together, I realized that I did not pick up the camera much. So off I went to dig through my iphone pics. I was ibviously having good make-up days(?) because there are quite a few of me – LOL!

This week also happened to be when Alyson lost her front tooth. My settings were completely off, so I had to change them to black and white. I seem to like them that way.

I did manage to take a photo of Alyson taking cookies for her 1/2 birthday. She was so excited. I even managed to save the sticker and note her teacher gave her.

I can’t tell how badly I want to get into Week 9. I know I said I would have more Silhouette cuts, but I haven’t even opened that program, hoping to get to it this week.

I am also gathering things together for some Summer Activities. I know that was my plan last year, but it kind of got away from me. I am hoping getting a jump start on things will put me in the right state of mind. A new concept to me, planning ahead, LOL! But for reals (yes, I know it isn’t a word), I want to follow through.

have a wonderful Monday. I know Alyson and I both will be throwing some kind of fit going back to school. Ha!

Michelle

Just Pictures

2012-04-13T12:04:00.001-07:00

So, as you can tell by my lack of blogging, this cold has kicked my butt and made me rest and do nothing more. I do want to share some of the photos I took on Easter Day. Just Alyson looking for eggs. :)

When Alyson woke up, she peeked outside and didn’t notice any eggs. She figured that the Easter Bunny thought she was too old – umm nope! And yes, I love that she still believes.

Her dress is from target. She picked it out. And the necklace is from the Easter Bunny. Very Jane has some wonderful deals, and I couldn’t pass it up, since she always wants to wear my necklaces.

Then we came inside so she could sort all of her goodies.

reading a card from my mom.

a photo of the Lego salon we put together. It was so fun!

Then it was time for some confetti eggs. Alyson couldn’t wait.

She breaks them so hard on his head. Always the willing dad. LOL!

Before she could even think about getting me, I cracked one on her head, as did her dad.

Awe, that toothless smile – LOVE it!

And these are just a couple I took before we left for lunch.

It was WAY too sunny out, but I knew if I didn’t get a picture before we left, I probably wouldn’t get one.

See? Lots of photos! But for me, that’s a good thing! have a great day!

Michelle

Easter Update!

2012-04-10T10:15:00.001-07:00

Hey there! Today I am forcing myself out of bed from this yucky cold, to blog. Of course I would get sick while I was on break. BUT, I refuse to make it boring Miss A. I am trying my hardest to get activities together for her.

Before I show/share those, here some egg dying photos. It was such a pretty day, that we decided it would be fun to color them outside.

We had fun! I love coloring eggs. If you look closely, I even made an ombre egg. Alyson wasn’t patient enough to let them get darker, I don’t blame her.

And if you look closely, you will see that Alyson lost her second top tooth. I LOVE it! They grow up so fast.

That’s it. Not many words, but I will be back with some more photos!

Michelle