Sweet and Simple

Right Now

2012-02-24T13:49:00.004-05:00

I cannot believe it is the second month of this year. And it seems this year has only begin.

I started the new year on the phone with my husband who was on his way back from R&R. I was so thankful to been able to ring in the New Year, even if it was on the phone.

Right now life is going fast. We are staying busy which makes the days pass quickly. Staying busy where the days past fast is good during a deployment. Last month we have celebrate day 100. I wanted to do something to mark a milestone for the deployment. So we celebrated day 100 with cupcakes and candles and it was fun...and R didn't mind the cupcakes. Now we are half way to the end!!!!!!!!

I am doing Project Life (Becky Higgins). I decided to do it for one simple reason...my husband requested more pictures. So I decided the best way to do that was to document our everyday. I am so excited to show him when he comes home! He was so excited about the project when I told him about it.

Also I believe crafting/scrapbooking has saved me from going crazy. It keeps me occupied. I have to scrapbook or I get out of sorts! Though I have a few bad days and weeks, they too pass.

The only thing I really have been interested on TV is Once Upon a Time. Though I need and want to read, I just haven't made the time. Right now R loves Little Einsteins and Mickey Mouse.

I have found on so many occasions R sleeping in his bedroom floor. I think he would rather play than sleep so he plays until he falls asleep in the floor.

I am so thankful for friends that have ate lunch/supper with me, gone shopping with me, talked with me, and just hung out. I am so thankful for friends. And I will not forget my family who has put up with R and I. They are a lifesaver.

I am a NOMAD... We have a traveling home right now. No real place on earth to call a "home". But I am okay with that, though sometimes it drives me crazy not having a place of my own.

And I miss him. I miss every bit of him, but I will not bore you with how much I really miss him! Cannot wait until we are all back together again.

best photo of 2011

2011-12-28T23:20:00.003-05:00

was taken when my husband came home for leave. Yep that is where I have been for a while...MIA. And I received the best Christmas present of all :). Enjoying time as a family.

I just wanted to share my favorite photo from 2011. It is not a perfect portrait with perfect hair, eyes all sparkling, the aperture just right, but it has more than all those perfect photos. It is an beautiful moment recorded that makes it extraordinary. It says so much so I will let the picture speak for itself...

Thankful

2011-11-21T14:35:00.000-05:00

This year I have so much to be thankful for. Every year I have had so much to be thankful for, but this year my eyes are open even more to all the blessings that I have. I am so thankful for my family. I do not know what I would do without them. I am so thankful for having an amazing husband who cares and loves me. And that as I type this, he is safe. I am thankful for the sweetest baby boy ever. I am thankful for our God and savior who has blessed my life richly and all the thing he has done. I am thankful for a home to live in. I am thankful for my friends. They show up in the right moments when I have needed them. I am thankful for the wonderful food. I love food. A good reason to be thankful this week. There is so much more to be thankful for in my life, I could go on, but for now that is all.

I have neglected my blog through this process of moving and adjusting to everything. I am definitely staying very busy with scrapbooking, church, new projects, and family activities. I am still adjusting and the days are passing quickly.

So now on to some projects I need to share. First is my thankful (gratitude) mini flip book. You can see more photos of the project and a little how to HERE.

This year I turned 24. I enjoy going back to remembering things about myself every year. My journaling is tucked behind the photo. I used some of Crate's standouts and made some acordian flowers myself---a little time consuming, but worth it. You can see more photos HERE.

sending him off to war

2011-10-08T09:54:00.004-04:00

is one of the hardest things in my short life I have had to do. The emotions rush in a flood your entire body. You have that enormous lump in your throat while holding back tears. You feels as though the air was sucked out of the room and little butterflies now occupy the space of air in your body. I feel this because you know that for at least months it will be the last time you see him, kiss his lips, feel his warmth, and you know you are going home to a painfully quite home. The bed will be cold and lonely. You lose your best friend for a while and sometimes it's the most interesting part of your day is gone. I know for months there is going to be have heavy weight on my shoulders, but I know in time it will all be okay. Or at least you pray that he will come home and life will go on as though it never happened. The year I survived and learned independence. It can only make me a better, wiser, and a stronger person. So let's do this!

I cannot even describe how proud I am of him. We have learned what a little bit sacrifice is for this great country that can only be learned by serving.

Sharing Time

2011-09-25T23:26:00.000-04:00

I have some new projects to share today with Crate Paper's products. I have been looking forward to fall so much that I wanted to make a page with last year's annual hayride photos that my parents have done for many years. Naturally I used the Farmhouse collection which is perfect for Fall or even Halloween.

Check my this page at the CP Blog.

I also made a mini album using the Peppermint collection. You can see more information on the album HERE.

Welcome Fall

2011-09-25T23:02:00.001-04:00

The weather is not quite fall-ish for me! But it is a little cooler in the mornings. Which makes me happy. I have been extra excited for this fall and I am not sure why I am so excited. I think it may be due to this awful summer in the heat. I mean sweating in my home because we have awful cooling!! Or the hot chocolate, roasted marshmallow, wearing a jacket... And the fact that this weekend we went to the La Union Corn Maze in New Mexico.

It was rather warm, but we really enjoyed all the activities. Ruger LOVED it so much! He did not want to leave. I think the only reason we got him out to the car was because he was so tired from all the excitement and fell asleep on the way home! He got to walk the corn maze with us, pet and feed the farm animals, play in a huge sand box, slide on slides, ride the hayride, pick at the pumpkin patch, ride the cows, bonce on the bouncy thingy, and ate roasted corn. And there is still a lot of fall left to go!!!

4ever his

2011-09-14T19:25:00.000-04:00

Today is our 4 year anniversary. Today 4 years ago I married the most wonderful man. God has blessed me so richly with a wonderful and godly husband.

In the last 4 years we have

moved 4 times.

had the most beautiful baby.

learned how to be very independent.

bought a home.

learned that time apart makes time together more valuable.

lived on love (not money).

visited places we never dreamed we would see.

learned to live.

I continue to learn more of him everyday. I only pray and hope for 90 more years together.

I love you J!!

toddler ruger

2011-09-13T15:55:00.000-04:00

My sweet little baby is getting so big. He has gone from this...

4 months

to a very busy little toddler in just one year!

16 months

Right now he...

gets into everything.

loves food. A favorite is bananas.

has his own language, that for the life of me, I can not understand.

scratches himself so much that I must keep clothes on him.

thinks everything is a phone. It could be a lens cap, hair dryer plug in, etc. I love how he holds it on his shoulder.

loves to get his teeth brushed.

knows how to pitch a little tantrum.

has a awesome forced laugh.

has A LOT of teeth.

can say dada. And for the most part that is about it. He can shake his head no and yes. Yes is putting his chin to his neck (love!). He can give the sign for "all done" & "more."

loves to give kisses. Blow them or on the face.

found the joy of stickers.

grows in independence everyday.

laughs and talks a lot!

And we can't get enough of him.

here is the video of him with the hair dryer from last night. It is long. I did not have time to edit it.

this day 10 years ago

2011-09-11T08:45:00.000-04:00

I was sitting in a classroom taking a English exam. Second period of the day in High School, ninth grade to be exact. It was like to any normal ordinary day except it wasn't. It was the day that change a whole lot. We could hear the shouts and screams from the neighboring classroom. Thinking may they are playing a game or some activity over there. After the teacher noticed the alarmed look in our faces, she told us why so much noise was made. I don't really think we comprehend what she said, but soon we saw the news and knew the gravity in which what was taking place. The rest of that day in the ninth grade will live in my memory forever.

Really that day was different, but really it change more than a day. It changed a part and pieces of my life. My husband was in high school also at this time. He volunteered to join the military 7 years later. Now he is about to go to war and fight for his country. This is where my life is changed. I now see things through a different lens. When it's your husband fighting for a cause, because of 9/11 he and I will experience a part of the event. The ten years after part. It's not just about those who were lost and their families though their lost is great, but for those who stood up and said I will fight for those lost and freedom so that this will never happen again. Volunteered to put their life on the line and to know that they might not becoming home. 9/11 has affected those who have did serving in foreign countries and their family. This tragedy has effected more than a group, but a nation.

2011-09-03T22:44:00.002-04:00

Happy Labor Day Weekend! I want to share my latest layouts with Crate Paper. You can click here to see all the photos of the project.

This photo was taken almost a year ago. I new I had to use this quote from the book, Love You Forever. I used my silhouette to cut out the clouds.

This is photos the day after Ruger took his first steps. We went to practice his walking. I used Crate Paper's new Peppermint Collection. Also used my silhouette for the string of hearts.

Alligator Point

2011-09-02T16:58:00.001-04:00

I have a instagram page of our family trip to Florida. Ahh... I wish I were there now. Wouldn't that be great, instead of counting down the days until he leaves.Anyway I decided to try my first Sunday sketch over at Studio Calico. It was fun and at first it was not turning out like I wanted it to, but after working with I really love the way this layout turned out. Enjoy.Studio Calico's Monthly Kit Board Walk

catching up

2011-08-26T01:41:00.001-04:00

I've been neglecting my blog as of lately... I know... sorry.

I have been so busy. First we, as a family, went on vacation to Georgia and to Florida. I have too many photos to share from our trips. We had a blast! So we went on a zip line tour for an awesome date. By the way you do not have to go to Mexico to go on zip lines. There are some amazing ones literally 15 minutes from my home town!
Then went to Florida for a "traditional" vacation. Like the ones I remember growing up with all of my family.
A trip to the Georgia aquarium and family time and family photos in between.

Not only have we been on vacation but we are preparing for some life altering separation. That would be a deployment. I believe I am doing incredibly well for our first experience. I though I would be more upset about all of this by now, but really I am too busy thinking of all the things I need to get done. I know the crying until I fall asleep is coming and it's going to hurt, but there is nothing I can do about that right now at this moment.
I will be heading to Georgia to stay with my family during this time of separation. More to come on this new adventure. And more photos to come.

Stinkin' Cute

2011-08-11T18:17:00.000-04:00

Check out my tutorial today over at Crate Paper on how to make these frames. I used the Random Collection from Crate Paper and I used Splendid Finns' Digital Mini Frames.

Let it snow

2011-08-02T23:12:00.001-04:00

Let it snow, please! With all this heat it would be nice if it were a little cooler. I really love the new Crate Paper collections. Peppermint is wonderful for the winter season coming our way soon. It is colorful and whimsy.

Last winter it snowed in Georgia on Christmas! Which RARELY happens. We had a huge blast playing in the snow. My mom is awesome behind the camera and snapped photos of my husband and I playing in the snow.

I cut out the snow flakes and used some simmer mist on the snowflakes to make them more dreamy. I love how soft this layout feels.

Thanks for looking. Ask if you have any questions.

You can also see this layout over at Crate Paper's blog.

Photo Booth

2011-07-28T11:43:00.005-04:00

J, R, and I all went to the grand opening of the commissary here at Fort Bliss. There was a free photo booth and of course we had to do it. These were the real deal when it comes to photo booth photos.

I really enjoy days like that. When we can just do whatever. R was super tired in the photos... can you tell?

One thing I noticed about photo booth layout, is they are almost always on 8.5x11. I think that's because they will get lost if the page was any larger.

I love the little camera from Amy Tan's new collection for silhouette.
I hid the journaling/story inside the little kraft envelope... on of my favorite parts to this layout.

I used Studio Calico's July kit, Mind the Gap. Also Elle's Studio tags. And American Crafts + Amy's camera for silhouette. If you notice I used the packaging from SC's fab rips.

Using Textures Tutorial

2011-07-25T06:31:00.001-04:00

Good Monday morning. I have a tutorial I want to share with you today. I will show you how to use photo textures.
Textures can be used through Photoshop with any digital texture. Like a image file of wood grain. Just be clear that there are so many textures to choose from. I will be using Jodie Lee's

Shabby Photo Textures II and Shabby Photo Textures Set.

Please keep in mind that there is more than one way to add textures to your photos.

First you need to find a photo you would like to add textures to. I like photos that are more solid or from away. Then drag your texture into your photo.

2. Then apply the texture to the photo as you want it to look. Then duplicate your photo layer.
In the layers palette it needs to be in this order photo copy, texture, photo.

3. Select the texture in the layers palette. Then select your erase tool. Use the erase tool to erase the parts of the texture you wish to hide. I only used it to erase the texture that interferes with the face.

4. Now it's time to "play" with the texture. Use the opacity and fill to change how much you see of the copy photo and the texture photo. Adjust to your liking. You can also use the drop down menu. I like linear burn and luminosity. You can add more textures too or even frames. Don't forget to save!

BEFORE Original Photo

AFTER Textured Photo

Textures with the addition of Jodie Lee's Frames

Try adding textures to your photos.

Photo Paper: Red River Paper

2011-07-17T22:30:00.008-04:00

I have been looking for some awesome paper for photographs and hybrid projects to print from my home printer. I just have a dell series 9 printer. Honestly I have no complaints about my printer. I know the paper is important for a good print.
I was given the sample pack from Red River Paper that has a sample of their papers. I really liked all the paper. I was fond of the Utra Pro Gloss for printing photos. I print photos for my traditional paper scissors layouts and this paper was perfect for printing my custom size photos. I like the photos were crisp and clear with the right amount of gloss. It does not get that annoying glare that gloss photos usually have. These photos are hard to tell what the paper looks like. You might see these photos on a page sometime soon.

I also used one of the matte papers to print photos, while they turned out good, I prefer gloss for photos. Though I really want to try an 8.5x11 hybrid page with some of the matte paper.
Check out their scrapbook section on their website. It has good information about printers, paper, and software.

Star Spangled + Saturday Morning

2011-07-07T22:00:00.002-04:00

This is the first year our family has not spent the 4th of July in Georgia. Though things are almost the same minis family and a parade. We had a great weekend! This page is for the symphony and fireworks we enjoyed.

Star Spangled

Used Studio Calico's Ray Gun kit
& Elle's Studio USA Tag.
The flag is just clip art
Maya Road Pin Stars

This page is for the Saturday Mornings J and I spend together.

Saturday Morning

Used Studio Calico's Paper Moon Kit.

I am a...

2011-07-07T21:51:00.000-04:00

Crate Paper Girl! I am so excited to be apart of such a awesomely fabulous team. Crate Paper makes some of the best scrapbook products out there. I can't wait to show you what I will be doing with CP's products. Very soon everyone will be seeing the new lines on the blog: crate.typepad.com.

Independence Day Weekend

2011-07-05T16:21:00.002-04:00

I love Independence Day! It's one of my favorite holidays. I am so glad and blessed to be apart of such a great country. I am thankful for all our freedoms and those who have sacrificed so much for it.
Our weekend started with a Eli Young Band concert. It was so much fun. R really enjoyed it and was sooo silly! Had fun shopping. Oh and we celebrated Father's Day on Saturday since he was gone last month. Then we watched fireworks and ate pulled pork barbecue. And I made the best apple pie.

Digi Happenings

2011-06-29T12:32:00.004-04:00

This has been a crazy, exciting month over at jessicasprague.com. Here are a few pages and projects from this month.

Jessica Sprague|Jessica Sprague Template+ 1.15
Echo Park| Dots & Stripes Metropolitan Element Pack 2
Dots & Stripes Metropolitan Element Pack 1
Dots & Stripes Metropolitan Paper Pack

Grandma or whatever you call her

Carina Gardner|COQUETTE - Word Art Set
Cosmo Cricket| Early Bird Paper Pack
Early Bird Elements
Togetherness Paper Pack-Background
Kitschy Digitals| Granny's Attic Kit
Fabric Covered Buttons Kit
Fresh Blooms Digital Kit

thanks for looking!

In just one year

2011-06-27T14:24:00.000-04:00

Remember my post, One Year Ago Today, well here is the page to go with. I am so glad I have these photos to remind me how fast a year passes and how much he has grown.

Studio Calico's June Kit: Paper Moon

Lately

2011-06-27T13:55:00.000-04:00

I have been saying "No", "R NO", "NO", "Thank You", "sit down", etc. I have been 'spring' cleaning. I watch TV less and listen to music more. I have less time for me. I have been missing my best friend. I have a stack of magazines to read. I'm itching for some great photos. This week I went to our old apartment and met the new residents and had a day where I has so many memories there with R. Lunch with a friend. Learning to take it a day and week at a time.

4Ever Bloghop: Stop 20

2011-06-24T22:00:00.001-04:00

Welcome to the bloghop train stop #20! So glad you have made it to my blog. We are celebration Jessica Sprague's 4th birthday, I meant JessicaSprague.com's 4th birthday!! -I think Jessica is older than 4--but I'm just guessing. I have a fabulous freebie! It's a hybrid printable card and envelope wrappers. Print, assemble, and enjoy!

Now closed.

Thanks for all those who participated.

~~DOWNLOAD HERE~~

Your next stop # 21 is the other Erin over at her blog Studio 162.

Happy Summer

2011-06-21T16:19:00.006-04:00

Today it's officially summer! It's so hot and dry in our part of the country and has been feeling like summer since like April.

I have another new layout that I'm in love with. These photos were taken on Fort Bliss so I did a little play with the title bliss. Our life is bliss and happen to be stationed at Fort Bliss. Enjoy and thanks for looking!

You can add digital elements to your layouts. One way is to add them to photos then print. Like I did here with the frames.

Credits

SC Lawn Party

Studio Calico Countryside

American Crafts Ribbons

LEORA SANFORD Postage Frames Digital
House of 3 Flags

happy Monday

2011-06-20T12:53:00.002-04:00

Here are my most resent layouts.

Wrapped around my Heart used Paper Moon. Photos for February check more of the photos here.

Easter used Lawn Party.

I have been using digital scrapbooking to inspire my pages. This layout was inspired by my layout The sky's the limit.

Join me for...

2011-06-20T12:11:00.000-04:00

a bloghop for the 4th birthday of JessicaSprague.com! This Friday I will be giving out a fabulous freebie and I can't wait to see you here! See flyer below or JessicaSprague.com.

Father's Day

2011-06-18T14:00:00.008-04:00

I have the most amazing husband who is a wonderful daddy. He is the most helpful person I know. He will do anything for R or I from helping with diapers to making sure we are taken care of. I could not have asked God for a better father for R.

I know he wishes he were home with R or even just able to talk to him on Father's Day. Last year he missed Father's day and more than likely he will miss it next year too. I show R pictures of him while he is away and he always lights up with a huge smile. R loves him a lot.

Happy Father's Day J! We love you!!

& Happy Father's Day to my Daddy!

Chalk Love Letters

2011-06-15T10:15:00.000-04:00

My Mawmaw gave me a few mirrors when J and I were married. I love these little mirrors. I converted it into a chalk board. [1] I popped out the mirror. [2] Trace and cut out chalk paper. [3]Put sticky chalk paper on the back of the mirror and popped it back in and voli I have the prefect chalk board.

We use it for love notes between J and I. I love coming into the kitchen and getting a little reminder of him during the day when he is gone. Just simple little surprises make me happy. He always leaves a note before he goes into field training or leaving for a while. These are a few photos of my chalk love letters.

I love him so.

12 months of photos

2011-06-14T11:55:00.005-04:00

More from R's baby book. After all the hard work of taking photos monthly I condensed it to one page. I love the Clothesline by Danielle and it's perfect for this project.

Kitschy Digitals| Clotheslines, Curated

Creativity by Crystal| August 09, Birthday Day Brushes

Summer

2011-06-13T11:02:00.008-04:00

This summer is going to be HOT! First summer with out air conditioning. That is because we have evaporated cooling which is not the best for 103 degree weather. We will be doing a lot of swimming. Just trying to stay cool this week with no rain in sight. sigh.

Here is my currents for JessicaSprague.com. You can check out more of my digital layouts at jessicasprague.com or all of my layouts at two peas galleries.

I love the sun

Echo Park| Splash paper and Elements 1 & 2
Jessica Sprague| Jessica Sprague Template+ 1.12

I am still working hard on R's 1st year book. I am so close. I hope to order it soon. It's taking me longer than expected. Here is a page for 12 months.

12 Months
Cosmo Cricket| The Boyfriend Paper Pack, The Boyfriend Candy Candy, The Boyfriend Elements
Splendid Fiins| baker's twine, (faux)laroids

This one for a speed scrap on Friday. It was my first one. I really liked the challenge.

Happyness
Queen of Quirk| Old Boris Kit, Lucky Duck Paper Pack, Knotty Girl Paper Pack
Kitschy Digitals| Vintage Cabinet Cards
In the Making| Valpolicella elements pack
Splendid Fiins| @ the office - graph brushes

Scraps

2011-06-10T15:12:00.005-04:00

I have decided to dive into traditional scrapbooking. I will continue to crank out plenty of digital layouts too. I like using both mediums. Both have advantages and disadvantages. Since I do not have a really good local store I am now using Studio Calico's monthly kits. I love their selections. Here is my first layouts using May's Kit Lawn Party.

First Year

Beside Her

Photos of my sisters beautiful wedding coming soon.

View more of my traditional scrapbook pages

Weekend 6: This is our life

2011-06-07T16:39:00.004-04:00

Our weekend through the lens.
I haven't updated on our weekend from Memorial Day. It's been really crazy around here. R has been sick. This weekend was really hard for me. Though last weekend was great. This is our life: Memorial Day Weekend.

Early weekend for dada.

I love my chalk specking bubble coffee mugs. Mine said :) Weekend and J's said seepy. He was seepy (as we say) on Saturday morning. It reminds me of our lazy Saturday mornings. I really want to cherish Saturday morning, the feeling that everything is perfect.

My husband loves his PS3 he enjoys playing his games.

We went to the water park. R loved the elephant that spouted water. We had a cookout with our good friends for Memorial day.

First Steps

2011-06-03T18:54:00.012-04:00

Just as R turned 13 months old, he begins taking steps. Many babies walk early and many walk later. I am glad he has only been crawling. I am not ready for the chase yet. When he stared standing he did not want to he would pull his legs up. So I am not surprised it took him a little while to be interested in walking. He just was all of a sudden interested in taking steps. Now he thinks it's fun.
The video quality is not very good in poor lighting.
In the video you may notice that these particular pjs are getting too small. Time to get rid of 9 month pajamas.

Then the next day we went to the park in the late afternoon and practice walking. It was so nice outside. Not too hot like it has been being and the grass is green thanks to the sprinklers. If you don't know we live in El Paso where it rained this day and you cannot even tell that it rained and it hadn't rained in 180 days. Just in the desert for ya!
And by the way, I think my husband has an eye for photos. Can you tell which ones he took?

Speed Scrap: June 2011

2011-06-03T18:44:00.002-04:00

I am so excited to be apart of Jessica Sprague's Speed Scrap. All of June there will be many speed scraps to participate in to celebrate JessicaSprague.com's 2th birthday! Happy Birthday JessicaSparague.com!!

What is a speed scrap? The host of the speed scrap will lead you through creating a layout in just one hour through the forum. You will receive one set of instructions every 15 minutes. After you receive the last instruction, you will have one hour to finish and upload your layout to the Speed Challenge Gallery for that particular challenge.

I will be hosting a speed scrap on June 25th at 2:00 PM EST

Please come and join in on the scrapping fun! Oh and did I mention there will be a freebie when you have completed your speed scrap? Well there will be.

Come to the Fourm to play.

For those who have died...

2011-05-29T22:41:00.007-04:00

When your military every patriotic holiday means so much more.

Though when I was growing up my parents always taught me what patriotism is. I believe every American should learn to love this country!

Our military sacrifice so much everyday and some sacrifice it all.

Memorial Day is not just a day off! It's one day a year we remember those who sacrificed it all for our country. These men and women bettered our country. Please take a moment to remember those lost their life for you.

Thank you to those who sacrificed their lives for our freedom and the families left behind whose sacrifices will never be forgotten.

Please take time to thank a veteran or a war widow or visit a war memorial.

Here are some blogs to visit to remember those who have given their life and the effects it has.
Chrissy, Letters to you, is a blogger that lost the love of her life who died in action in September.
Andrew Olmsted is a blogger who left behind his Last Post on his blog.
1LT Todd Weaver left his last letter to his wife and daughter.
A Little Pink in the World of Camo blog about a widow who lost her husband March 2010.
The Yllescas Family was a blog a came across as my husband was in basic training. She lost her husband in 2008 from wounds suffered from an IED in Afghanistan.
More Widow Blogs

My Hero

2011-05-29T01:06:00.005-04:00

J is my hero.

I have been blessed with this wonderful husband.

He does a lot for R and I.

His job is hard.

He love us.

Oh and he looks good in uniform! :)

Here is a page just in time for Memorial Day. Happy Memorial Day weekend!
We will be doing something fun.

Kitschy Digitals|Watercolor Doilies Paper Collection, Washi Tape Frames Digital Kit, Woodgrain Frames Digital Kit
Elle's Studio| Everyday Striped Journaling Circles
Carina Gardner| PINFEATHERS - Doodly Swirls
Jodie Lee| Sweet Heart Collection -circle brush

Book Progress

2011-05-25T13:38:00.001-04:00

R's first year book is almost done. It will have about 200 pages. I am getting so close to completing his book and I am so excited! It has been a labor of love and I can't wait to share it in hopefully a month.

Here is a page from R's book.One of my favorite photos ever of R. He was 5 months old. My happy and sweet baby!

Weekend 5

2011-05-23T09:42:00.003-04:00

through the phone camera. This weekend I decided to challenge myself by only using my phone.

The obsession with the instagram app on the iphone made me want to jump on to the obsession too, but I do not have a iphone. So I found this little gem, called MOLO for my phone.

It was a relaxing weekend with only a few little errands to do and a birthday party at the park and church.

Went to a birtday party at the park for one of his friends. It was windy and very hot. R enjoyed eating Cheetos and playing in the wood chips.

J and I enjoyed some Cokes. And R escaped outside. We joked that he is exfoliating his skin on the cement.

*Remembering and capturing these moments while the my solider is still here.

My favorite subject

2011-05-20T18:10:00.005-04:00

is R. All my pages revolve around him. I am getting close to finishing his baby scrapbook.

Digital or hybrid, I love both mediums. I am really liking traditional scrapbooking. Something about how it jumps off the page. Expect to see more traditional from me soon. Here are my current layouts (minis 1 out for publication). All products can be found at JessicaSprague.com.

Cosmo Cricket| Lil' Man Paper Pack, Lil' Man Elements, Lil' Man Candy Candy, Lil' Man Alphabet
Echo Park| For the Record Elements
Splendid Fiins| @ the office - graph brushes, Sew Crafty - messy stitches vol 1, Tween (add-on) elements, Make a Mess - splatter overlays v2

Cosmo Cricket| Togetherness
Liv.e Designs| Needs+Wants: Stitchies Vol.1 {The Crayon Box Collection}
Kitschy Digitals| Washi Tape Frames Digital Kit

Carina Gardner| BABY SAFARI - SET 1, BABY SAFARI - SET 3, BABY MINE- FULL KIT, ESSENTIALS - Stitches v1, ESSENTIALS - Stitches v2
Kitschy Digitals| Fabric Covered Buttons Kit, Fresh Blooms Digital Kit

Elle Studio| Everyday Striped Journaling Circles, Banner Letters - dark pink - hybrid project
Echo Park| Little Girl Paper Pack, Walk in the Park Paper Pack #2
Kitschy Digitals| Jewel Toned Butterflies

One Year Old

2011-05-19T13:00:00.001-04:00

I have a one year old! Sometimes I wonder where the time has gone, but I know where it has gone. I have done a lot to get here. Though one year passes fast.

R is so sweet. He just learned how to give kisses.

He is very vocal!

He still is working on walking.

He loves to entertain by making noises, laughing, and shaking his head.

He is still small for a one year old at 17 lbs.

He is a super speed crawler.

He always cuddles with me.

He is now 12 months old.

Here is his invite to the party
Card- Lenora Standford

one year ago today

2011-04-28T16:59:00.005-04:00

April 28, 2010 I was over due with my baby boy. I was ready to get over and done with and have him in my arms. How fast a year flies by. He is approaching one year in a few days. I believe this is one of the last pictures of me before I was no longer this big.

I don't think I posted this on my blog. I made this a few months ago for Little Dreamer Designs (which is now closed). I do not remember the credits (mostly Lenora Sanford). It is one of my favorite digital layouts. This page titled, What We Did Not Know. The picture was taken one of those many moments during labor. We did not know he would look, his personality, and who he was then and now we know so much more about this precious little boy.

TODAY April 28, 2011
and one year later...

Easter Weekend 5

2011-04-25T21:44:00.005-04:00

We had a wonderful weekend that was kicked off with my birthday. I got my hair cut and a pedi...very relaxing. Then J took me to eat a really good dinner and he bought me a beautiful comfy pajamas.

Saturday we colored eggs for our Easter egg hunt on Sunday. It was so much fun. I love all the colors. Then we went out for my favorite dessert...frozen yogurt a Yogo Berry!

Sunday is the Lord's day and happens to be when Easter festivities take place. My mom got R's Easter basket. We went out for Easter lunch. Then the Easter egg hunt with friends.

Dyeing eggs is so much fun and I love all the colors.

After getting his Easter basket, R had his first peep! He loved it. We were ready for church. R got so many comments on his tie.

We had a egg hunt. It was windy at the park. R enjoyed picking up the eggs.

Just 2 more. When we were egg dyeing. Love this photo of R and J :)

'At the Job'

2011-04-20T18:48:00.001-04:00

It's so nice to see J in his environment at work. I cherish these times. Really we are there to raise money, but we gain memories. I want to remember days like these where we get a very small glimpse in to this life. I love how excited J is to see us. I know it's special for the boys to see their wife and/or kids or just get to enjoy a home cooked meal.
Every moment counts in the military life. We learn to to soak up time to last us a week or months when they are gone. There's not a month that goes by that J is not missed for a least week at time right now. While it's hard on all of us, but we become stronger. I know it makes me a stronger person. Time apart does make the heart grow fonder.

This blog is more than just scrapbooking or a hobby, but a place to remember what life is right now. I want to be able to record snip-its of our life, like a journal with lots of pictures. After all isn't that what scrapbooking is about?

Weekend 4

2011-04-18T10:44:00.005-04:00

Weekend in photos...

On Friday, before we went out to dinner Ruger was so tired.

We went to the park on Saturday we videoed and took some photos. R really enjoys the park and the outside.

Love how you can see R in the reflection

Untitled from Erin Stewart on Vimeo.

So the Easter pictures did not turn out well. Mostly due to R wanting to throw eggs and chase them. Ugh. R's 1st Easter is coming up. And his first birthday. He has gotten so big. I can't believe how fast the year has flown by. I still need to finish his book. I have a computer full of videos that I need to get on disc, but I haven't. I guess it will happen eventually. But what really matters is that we are enjoying our little one.

The Journey

2011-04-13T12:50:00.004-04:00

Life changed for us quickly. We found out that we were going to Fort Bliss two months before we left. We had no clue what Fort Bliss or El Paso meant other than not beach location we were hoping for. We did not know when we would be moving to Fort Bliss.

When J came home from Basic Training and OSUT, just a week later we were in El Paso. After a two day drive, two weeks in a hotel, and a moving van a month later, we were here.

As we stand on the mountain and look over El Paso we realize this is home for now

We were out of our element; desert, Mexicans, and their culture. Why did we get sent here? Why not closer to home or a tropical destination? We were here so we learned to deal with the dry heat, culture shock, and military life because we had to. We have seen the beauty of this area. It has only made our family stronger.

Ruger was born here. We made friends here. Home was very distant. Georgia is home. We had a house, family, and good friends. We learned we still had our family, our friends, and our house.

Right now we are on an adventure and learned a lot from our experience. Learned we can do anything.

You can find strength in life changes as I have. Not only moving but dealing with the army wife life.


Queen of Quirk You Are Here Full Kit Knotty Girl Paper Pack Map-Google maps USA map- clip art

This is inspired by my pinterst boards. Here is the original at Tickey Boo.

*We have been in El Paso almost 2 years now.

10 months

2011-04-11T16:56:00.001-04:00

R at 10 month photos...

Elle's Studio
My Dear Papers
Christmas Scalloped Journaling Tags
Splendid Fiins
border line frame brushes
baker's twine
Cosmo Cricket
Garden Variety Candy Candy

All products available at JessicaSprague.com

11 months

2011-04-05T10:48:00.000-04:00

At 11 months, Ruger is getting so big. He now has 3 teeth. He enjoys exploring everything he can touch. He is crawling everywhere. He definitely has his own personality and very independent. He is almost not a baby any more.

I got one of those Gerber newsletters that updates you on information about children at that stage. When I opened it up it said toddler. I realized that next month he will not be a "baby" but a "toddler." I always new it, but it just hit me that my baby will be a toddler. Wow! How fast time has flown by!

Weekend 3

2011-04-04T17:15:00.001-04:00

This weekend was very relaxed. The weekend started early. J got off on Friday, which was nice. We did a little shopping and grocery shopping. We went to the park. Ruger loves the swing. He giggles while swinging--so cute. Of course went to church on Sunday. Weekend treats: I made cupcakes and frappuccino during the course of the weekend.

Pitter-Patter

2011-04-02T12:57:00.000-04:00

Ruger has become great at crawling. In fact, he only wants to crawl. When I try to stand him up to practice walking, he refuses! I am not worried he will crawl when he wants. I can tell he is stubborn already.

Enjoy the video of him playing and crawling. Just listen to those sweet little feet and hands pitter-patter across the floor...music to my ears.

Speed Crawler from Erin Stewart on Vimeo.

Not Digi!?!

2011-03-30T14:34:00.003-04:00

I have recently been so inspired to create some scrapbook pages that are not digital. I love the way the things pop off the page. So I created these pages with what I already have with. And I used some printed digital stuff! How could I not? Thanks for looking.


Echo Park Life is Good Kit, Spring Time Elements, American Crafts Rob-on, Cosmo Cricket Letters, White Tickers, and baker's twine.

A birth page. I love all the little photos to tell the story.

Cosmo Cricket DeLovly Paper, Earth Love Paper, & Joy Ride Paper. Martha Stewart Flower Stickers, Baker's Twine, Elle Studio My Dears Paper, Pugly Pixel Label, & One Little Bird Dates.

Love these colors! Banner triangles, blue + yellow paper, and tag are all hybrid.

Random Act of Kindness

2011-03-29T20:18:00.000-04:00

Today I experienced a remarkable thing-- the kindness of a stranger. Well I went to Walmart to pick up R's food (formula and baby food). My card was acting up. I told the lady I would come back later due to the card failure. Then out of no where the late 40s gentleman behind me spoke up and said "don't worry about it, I will get it." I was shocked needless to say seeing how $100 of formula and baby food. I was like that's really kind, but you really don't need to do that. The guy insisted. I told him if he had to he could just get two, but he refused and maintain that he wanted to get all of them. Even the cashier was in utter shock. I told him that was the nicest thing anyone has ever done for me and it is. I have never even had someone pay for a cup of coffee. I want to say thank you again to this very generousness stranger.

Weekend 2

2011-03-28T11:31:00.047-04:00

This weekend flew by.

Saturday was restful morning.

Then we went to get R a new outfit with a coupon for the Children's Place, right now my favorite place for R's clothes. I scored the awesome onsie for $6. That evening I put away his 6-9 month clothes. Even though he is almost 11 months old, he could still fit into 6-9 month clothes. It's always bitter-sweet putting away his clothes as he grows.

We went on post to get J a hair cut. Then we looked around the military clothing store.

Then we ate at Five Guys for dinner. It was pretty yummy. We really like the fries. (Note: look how huge they are and there was even more in the bag!). Which you know are fresh with the hug bags of potatoes they have sitting all over the store.

Sunday is always church day in this household.

We went to church. Here is R ready for church.

Then R got a new car seat. One of the pictures below is of him in the box.

Little snipes of the weekend...

New JS Layouts

2011-03-28T08:00:00.001-04:00

I have new layouts to share! Hope you enjoy. Thanks for looking.
Products are available at JessicaSprague.com

Echo Park
Sidewalk Chalk Paper Pack 1
Sidewalk Chalk Paper Pack 2
Sidewalk Chalk alpha, borders & wordart
Sidewalk Chalk Elements

Kitschy Digitals
Vintage Picture Frames
Thrift Store Grab Bag
Woodgrain Frames Digital Kit
Elle's Studio
Country Fair Journaling Tags ... Coming Soon
Woodgrain Tags
Cosmo Cricket
Early Bird Paper Pack
Earth Love Elements
Creativity by Crystal
Me & My {Baby} Brother Paper Pack
Queen of Quirk
Love: Me Accent Pack

Cosmo Cricket Joy Ride Paper Pack, Early Bird Elements, The Boyfriend Paper Pack, Mr. Campy Paper Pack, Early Bird Paper Pack
Queen of Quirk Scrap Canvas - Flutter

Echo Park Life is Good Paper Pack 2, Springtime Paper/Element Pack #2
Little Boy Paper Pack, Everybody Loves Christmas Paper Pack #1
Little Girl Paper Pack
Splendid Fiins Baker's Twine

Delovely Paper Pack & Delovely Candy Candy by Cosmo Cricket
ESS Stitches V1 By Carina Gardner

Cosmo Cricket Everafter Paper Pack, Snorkel Paper Pack, The Boyfriend Paper Pack, Early Bird Paper Pack, Earth, Love Paper Pack, Joy Ride Paper Pack

Echo Park
For the Record Paper/Element Pack #1
Cosmo Cricket
Hello Sunshine Paper Pack
Crystal Wilkerson
Crystal's {Inspired By Susan Weinroth} Template #03-Butterfly

Creativity by Crystal
Crystal's {Inspired By Susan Weinroth} Template #08
{Color Me Happy} Paper Pack #1
{Happy Spring} Mega Paper Pack
August '09 Rainbow Stripes Paper Pack
August '09 Teeny-Tiny Dots Paper Pack
Crystal's {PLAYGROUND} Element Pack

Kitschy Digitals
Woodgrain Frames Digital Kit
Candy-Coated Garden: Icing Flowers

For the love of baking

2011-03-26T14:51:00.001-04:00

Homemade Collection by Baers Garden

I must admit that I love to bake. Especially cupcakes (who doesn't right?). I love the way they look, how easy they are to create, how the smell, their just cute! I love cheesecake or anything with cream cheese. I love chocolate. I love red velvet cake, but I haven't mastered making read velvet cake yet. I love strawberry flavor! I enjoy being the wife a home that's in the kitchen baking. I like to send J to work with treats and he usually shares. It's my part of reaching to the heart. In the phrase, "A way to man's heart is through his stomach."

I am currently working on my stash of cupcake things. I am excited to make cupcakes, but I can't just make them for anything... they tempt me too much. It must be for an event...

Oh but I did make cheesecake cupcakes for the weekend and they are sooo yummy. Photos to come.

I get better at baking everyday.

Hybrid-ness

2011-03-26T08:00:00.003-04:00

My recent hybrid projects that I have done recently. Hope you enjoy! Thanks for taking a look.
All digi products available at jessciasprague.com
So I have been thinking of projects geared toward deployment. Here is a great hybrid gift for anyone you love and says the perfect I love you through music and the classic cassette.

Echo Park
Sidewalk Chalk Elements
Sidewalk Chalk Alpha
Sidewalk Chalk Paper Pack 1

I "scrapped" my phone. This is a skin I ordered through a custom online shop. I really enjoy showing off my unique phone. Plus it reminds me of my family.

Cosmo Cricket DeLovely Paper Pack

Valentine's Bag Toppers
I made these for R's friends. I made them in PS, print, cut, and staple. An easy hybrid project.

Elle's Studio
XOXO Journaling Tag Pack
XOXO Papers

This week...

2011-03-25T16:27:00.002-04:00

This has been the ideal week for us. No late night and no training. Time together is what I cherish these days. Right now I am currently trying to get and stay organized on the daily chores. My house has always been clean, but now I know when and what has to be done everyday of the week. It's a basic list of to dos each day of the week. Plus I hate meal planning so I uses e-z meals. It gives you a grocery list and recipes. It's a great tool and works for us.

I think R want to take a picture. Maybe he will become a photographer?!
And why this photo is blurry? Munchkin please let go!

Or... maybe a artist?

or he could just eat window ledges??

...maybe a cup inspector!!

Weekend 1

2011-03-21T10:02:00.002-04:00

I will try to do a weekend update of photos over the weekend in the life of us. And so that I can document our weekends together. This week was a rough week on my own while the hubs was doing the usually Army absent thing, but the weekend was great!

Saturday
I made delicious Oreo Cheesecake Bits for the weekend for me and my hubby who came home to this after being gone all week.

It was a beautiful day! Windows down kinda day!!

R got new shoes...

Went to the park...

After the park we at on the way home. Note the corn dog aftermath.

Evening playing with R before bed...

Sunday

After church...
Being southern, we have to have our fried chicken. I made chicken "nuggets" at the request of J. Sunday is the perfect time for fried chicken, some what of a tradition.

Sunday Nap

Then I find this sweet note on the counter in the kitchen.

So after R woke up from his nap, we went to the ice cream shop. I had strawberry yogurt ice cream & J had double chocolate. R could not get enough ice cream!

In print

2011-03-19T13:20:00.000-04:00

Putting your digital creations into print is a way to make them last a long time and showcase the memories. Today I got my 20 page photo book for PaperKiwi.com. The book is exactly I expected.

Order and Upload: First I download the program to put my book together. It was super easy. I also downloaded the template for the cover, which helped me design the cover to fit perfect. Ordering was easy, it takes you step by step. They sent me an email when my book shipped. I would order from Paper Kiwi again.

I used Paislee Press + Kitschy Digitals Curated available at JessicaSpargue.com

Our Story

2011-03-15T15:11:00.006-04:00

We are "high school sweethearts" or sort of. We were in high school when we fell in love. We have known each other since I was 10 and he was 12 from church, but never really were good friends. I 'liked' him a long time before we decided to date. It was 2003, he asked me to the annual Formal at church. And since then we have been inseparable.

We were married in September 2007 at the church we grew up in.

Bought a house and got a dog.

But then in 2009, Jason joined the Army. Then we PCSed to Fort Bliss, our one and only duty station so far.

R was born May 2010.

Our little family
This is us now....

Greet the Morning

2011-03-11T18:46:00.000-05:00

R is so happy when he wakes. He looks up and just grins. I am so glad he is always easy to please and sweet baby. I am blessed. Not to say there are not times when I am cleaning up spit up or up at 3:30 am because he woke up in the middle of the night (a-hum, last night). But in general he is always grinning for strangers and happily playing. We even giggling at each other lately.

I used Bike Season from Baer's Garden to create this layout. One of my favorites so far.

Eye Candy - 10 Things

2011-03-01T23:45:00.001-05:00

1. I have been dreaming of these letters. I will be doing these very very soon.
Yarn Letters

2. I love glittery, sparkly things. I love this!!
Mirror Art

3. I have been having something like this jewelry art on my mind to do. This one is just perfect!
Jewelry Display

4. Simple but perfect! I have to have this!!
Clip Board Display

5. Sparkly sugary sweetness!! ...need I say more?!
Edible Glitter

6. Would love to have this camera. Great for some cool shots!
Remade Vintage Camera

7. Want, want, want! Love this for a hair piece.
Whippy Cake

8. Beautiful!
Epiphanie Bag
Photo by My Four Hens Photography

9. YUMMY!
A sweet treat - Brownie Stuffed Chocolate Chip Cookie

10. I really want to do a newborn session soon! These are beautiful!!
Sweet Newborn Photography

Change

2011-02-26T13:42:00.000-05:00

So change has come in the digi scrapbooking world for me. Little Dreamer Designs Shop is closing soon. Love all the designs over there and great CT. Now I have moved on to Baers Garden Designs over at Scrapbook Graphics. I love these amazing kits. This is my new layout for the kit Storyteller.

When I Met You

from conception...

I knew I could not wait to meet you.

I knew I would love you forever.

After 41 weeks, lots of morning sickness,

hard to get out of bed...

After all of this I meet this beautiful being.

When I met you.

Happy Valentine's Day

2011-02-14T12:00:00.002-05:00

Made these photos for Ruger's first Valentine's day! They turned out so cute!! I made him the heart shirt. We had a lot of fun on the love day. J had off so we enjoyed the day together.

So far 2011

2011-01-24T18:59:00.003-05:00

This year has just begun. We spend New Years in Georgia. Had a special friend move. My husband celebrated his 26th birthday. I know there is much more in-store for this year for me. I only hope it will be a great year.

Birthday Celebration

Play date

Weekend Bliss

Baby Pages

2011-01-24T18:43:00.000-05:00

For sure one of my top favorite layouts!

Credits

Wonderfully Made Crystal Wilkerson
Crystal's {Inspired By Susan Weinroth} Template #03
The Funky Fresh Paper Collection
Me & My {Baby} Brother Paper Pack
The June 2009 Paper Collection
September 09 Paper Pack
Crystal's {Sweet Vintage Charm} Elements
October '09 Sweet {Eye Candy} Elements
Crystal's {Back to Basics} Paper Pack

Eat You Up Carina Gardner
Color Kit 2
Cosmo Cricket
Joy Ride Candy Candy
Early Bird Paper Pack
Elle's Studio
Monogram Tags

Ever wanted to name something...

2011-01-21T16:39:00.001-05:00

Over at Makita Studio's blog you can do just that, name a new kit coming to Little Dreamer Designs. You have a chance to win her fabulously beautiful kit!
Deadline for entries will be Sunday, January 30th 12AM Midnight PST. Winner will be announced on Tuesday, February 1st!
So head on over to Makita Studio's blog and leave her some love and a name for her kit.

Wedding Photography | Villa Rica, GA

2011-01-20T17:51:00.001-05:00

While in Georgia for Christmas & New Years! My mother & I did my cousin's wedding photos. They turned out better than I expected!! I love my cousin and was happy to do this for her as her wedding gift. Here are just a few previews of the photos I did...

December Layouts

2011-01-09T23:35:00.003-05:00

I have posted for December. Here are my Layouts for December for JessicaSprague.com!

The sky is the limit Queen of Quirk
Cirque du Ciel Accent Pack
Cirque du Ciel Paper Pack
Carina Gardner
DAISY JANE - Paper Bits
In the Making Designs
Basically {striped+checked} Paper Pack
Splendid Fiins
Teen Album Elements

Cosmo Cricket
Earth Love Paper Pack
Earth Love Elements
Earth Love Candy Candy
Nutmeg Alphabet
Early Bird Candy
Wood Panel Alpha by Lenora Sanford

Watch & Learn They both were really into that game.

Splendid Fiins
Make a Mess - masks vol. 2
brilliant-just egg lace
@ the office paper pack 2
decorative circles
Teen (add-on) full kit
feedsack element pack 2
Flea Market - brads
too cool for school pack 2
Tween (add-on) paper

silhouette christmas ornament

2010-12-11T16:06:00.006-05:00

I am so in love with these silhouettes. I first saw the tutorial and these frames from Splendid Fiins, I knew what I had to make with these. Ruger's "1st Christmas" ornament, of course. There is so much you could do with this silhouette.

Here is one attempt at trying to get Ruger's photo for his project...

Here is the digital version, that I printed 3.5x4".

To make it sturdy so that (I hope) it will last for years to come, I cut a recycled box or you could you chipboard. I painted it red on the back.

After printing the silhouette, I glued it down, and carefully cut it out. Added some baker's twine and here you go.

Aint you just in love with these! You could even include this in a December daily album.
Umm, I might give one for a present to my family. We shall see...

Watch and Learn

2010-12-09T12:06:00.003-05:00

Watch and Learn, originally uploaded by eja stewart.

I've been MIA. So Thanksgiving was nice, but not very eventful. I cooked some yummy food. We just has some of Jason's buddies who really had no where else to be. Then we frantically had to find a place to live by the end of November--that was stressful! NO ONE would even call us back or even pick up the phone. We finally found an apartment which took way to long to process us. So we had a day and a half to move everything by ourselves and the next day hubby went out of town. This is a layout for an everyday moment in our lives. Jason was playing a game and I was probably trying to get supper on the table. Ruger was probably just wanting to be held. Finally Jason was multitasking.

Splendid Fiins @ JessicaSprague.com
Make a Mess - masks vol. 2
brilliant-just egg lace
@ the office paper pack 2
decorative circles
Teen (add-on) full kit
feedsack element pack 2
Flea Market - brads
too cool for school pack 2
Tween (add-on) paper

Family Photography | El Paso Photography I haven't really...

2010-11-23T12:22:00.004-05:00

done much photography of other people since moving to El Paso almost 1 1/2 years ago. Friday I took some photos of some friends. I think I captured them and their life! They are such a beautiful family!

Mid November Update

2010-11-20T00:14:00.002-05:00

Moving so soon! I am looking forward to Thanksgiving. Though I am already seeing so much of Christmas I am almost tired of seeing it...before Thanksgiving! I am thankful for the Lord, my family, friends, and for all the blessings in my life. I have 2 new layouts!

JessciaSprague.com

Baby Giraffe Cosmo Cricket
The Boyfriend Paper Pack
The Boyfriend Elements
Crystal Wilkerson
Me & My {Baby} Brother Element Pack

Crystal's {Inspired By Susan Weinroth} Template #05

Little Dreamer Designs

Christina Smith Subtle Memories & Post Me Strip Months
JM Designs Watercolor Mask
Designs by Lenora Wood Panel Alpha

Happy Wednesday

2010-11-17T15:59:00.003-05:00

I have a new layout for you to check out. Using all In the Making Designs by Linda Roos.

JessicaSprague.com

In the Making Designs

Be Berry Paper Pack
It's a start templates 2
La Storia Elements Pack

I have great news. I will be creating layouts and such at Little Dreamer Designs! I can't believe I made the amazing team!

Also check out a giveaway over at Makita Studio. She is giving you a chance to win her new kit that is coming to LittleDreamDesigns.com.

Almost 4 years ago...

2010-11-15T22:10:00.002-05:00

Jason I were engaged. In a few weeks (12/9) it will be 4 years. It really does not seem that long ago since that night. Every time the holidays come aronund I will always think back to that evening.

All JessicaSprague.com

Echo Park
Sleigh Ride Paper Pack #2
Sleigh Ride Element Pack #2
Carina Gardner
Pin Feather Title (coming soon)
Elle's Studio
Vintage Number Cards
Queen of Quirk
Zebra Notes - Fade Out

I am looking forward to Thanksgiving. I am cooking for the second year in a row. I am excited and thankful for so much in my life! We are about to move eeek! There is going to have a lot going on for the rest of this year.

Happy Heart

2010-11-08T15:07:00.003-05:00

So I have made my holiday photo to print and send. I am really pleased with the way they turned out. Here is a sneek peek.

A layout using mostly In the Making Designs products.

In the Making Designs by Linda Roo
Flutter By Elements Set
You Are Awesome Mini Kit
La Storia Paper Pack
La Storia Elements Pack
Modernist Elements Pack
Crystal Office Supplies Element Pack
Kitschy Digitals Granny's Sewing Basket
Cosmo Cricket Haunted Candy Candy

So over at JessciaSprague.com you can take one of her awsome classes for FREE. There is a free class starting November 29. Oh and it's not just for digital scrappers! Inspiration everywhere class information here. Register today!

5 months, next week...

2010-10-27T10:00:00.008-04:00

6 MONTHS. It is sometimes hard to believe how fast time flies. And like it is always said it's when your having fun- and I am having fun. The past 6 months have been perfect. Here is a page to put in Ruger's baby book about his 5 month. I used Linda Roo's new brushes for One Buck Wednesday at JessicaSprague.com. Every Wednesday at Jessicasprague.com there will be lots of digital goodies for $1-that's a deal!

Credits
In the Making Designs
Journaling Brushes
Mandarin Breeze Elements Pack
Basically {spotted+dotted} Paper Pack
Flutter By Elements Set
La Storia Elements Pack
Cosmo Cricket
Mr. Campy Borders
Girl Friday Borders

This week I was out of town visiting all my friends and family back home in Georgia. Been busy that's for sure. Not a moment alone! We had something to do every day. Well, ever year my parents have a hayride for about the past 20 years for the church folks. I have only missed 1 in my entire life and that was last year. But not this year. Ruger and I made it to ride in the hay.

Hello, Monday

2010-10-18T11:00:00.013-04:00

Kitschy Digitals has some of the cutest frames that are NEW at JessicaSprague.com You may have noticed the frames are the ones on her blog a while back. The are called Clothesline digital kit and too cute not to have. I am in love with them.

Credits
Kitschy Digitals
Clothes Line Digital Kit
Queen of Quirk
Jeepers Paper Pack
Lucky Duck Paper Pack
You Are Here Full Kit
Echo Park
Apothecary Halloween Element Pack 1
Splindid Finns
@ the office paper pack 1
Creativity by Crystal
Crystal's {Sweet Vintage Charm} Add-on Elements
Crystal's {Tons of Scallops} Template Kit
Crystal's {Rainbow Sherbet} Collection

So this weekend was great. Pumpkin Patch on Friday and after church on Sunday the Airsho all in the same weekend. With all the planes fling around how could you not love being at an airshow. It's events like these that make me wish that Ruger was old enough to remember. I know that the most important thing is making our own traditions, though we will not be here forever to make this a regular tradition. I guess he will have to look at the pictures years down the road to know that he was there. It was funny, but made me sad when he would get that huge frown/cry on his face and scream when the jets were flying by very loud. It made me a little sad seeing how much that sacred him. Until the jets were done he was not in the best mood.

I have been

2010-10-16T00:33:00.002-04:00

'couponing' (not a word). One of my newest side job is keeping up with the new coupon craze. Well, in some places it is a craze. Here in West Texas, I am not sure it is that popular. I have 2 weeks worth of sorted coupons on my kitchen table. It is one of the many things I need to get done. I started doing coupons when I came across some great blogs about how to save money and I am hooked. Here is why. We do not have much money--that is the sole reason. I want to do more with the least amount of money possible, which means doing more. I was a bargain hunter before, but now I a.m even a better bargain hunter. It makes me feel successful when I come across a great deal. In a way you can say it's a job. I save the family money and make it go further. Here are some really great blogs to get started at.... Krazy Coupon Lad y, Coupon Mom, and Coupon Cravings --just a few to get you started. Since I started in July, I can tell you I have gotten free toothpaste, free body wash, and free dish washing soap and more. I have gotten cheap diapers and wipes. I have saved up to $20 on a grocery bill just from coupons not including the $$ on sale price. I am not as avid as some 'couponers' out there, but I do alright.

Another thing that gets me right now is the fact that my 5 month old son will not smile for the camera. It's like as soon as the camera comes out he knows not to smile. Though I must admit his still cute. Today we went to the corn maze and pumpkin patch. I wanted to get more photos than I did, but oh well. Here are some highlights...

Hello, Tuesday

2010-10-12T16:31:00.003-04:00

So I want to be a better blogger... which means I am going to post more! I want to have a goal of 2 post a week. I really really want to stick to this, but time will only tell if I will follow through.

So this morning I woke up to this....

So sweet and so cute. I can not believe this is my life sometimes. God has blessed me tremendously! I love being a stay-at-home mommy. Sometimes SHAMs get tried of doing this everyday. Some might say that they feel like they are not accomplishing anything, but I feel accomplished. When I am at home with my baby I know that is where I need to be. Rasing my baby, not someone else. Plus it allows me to be able to have hobbies and time to cook for my husband and family. My family is important.

So this weekend I made these DELICIOUS cupcakes. I got the recipe from kevinandamanda's blog. They were absolutely, incredibly scrumptious! I want to eat them everyday! They are called Chocolate Chip Cookied Dough Cupcakes!
I instead of making the cake of the cupcakes, I used a box mix. It sounds bad saying that, but the box mixes taste better than the 'from scratch' version.

Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Cupcakes with Cookie Dough Buttercream Frosting

For the cookie dough:
2 sticks softened butter
3/4 cup sugar
3/4 cup brown sugar
4 tbsp milk
1 tbsp vanilla
2 1/2 cups all purpose flour
1/4 tsp. salt
1 cup mini chocolate chips
For the cupcakes:
3 sticks softened butter
1 1/2 cups light brown sugar, packed
4 large eggs
2 2/3 cups all purpose flour
1 tsp. baking powder
1 tsp. baking soda
1/4 tsp. salt
1 cup milk
2 tsp. vanilla extract
For the frosting:
3 sticks softened butter
3/4 cup light brown sugar, packed
3 1/2 cups powdered sugar
1/2 tsp. salt
2 tbsp. milk
1 tsp. vanilla extract
Directions:
To make the cookie dough, combine the butter and sugars in a mixing bowl and cream on medium-high speed until light and fluffy, about 2 mins. Beat in milk and vanilla until incorporated and smooth. Beat in the flour and salt until just combined. Stir in the chocolate chips. Using a 1.5 tbsp scoop, shape the dough into balls or tubes. Freeze on a parchment lined baking sheet overnight.
To make the cupcakes, preheat the oven to 350° F. Line two cupcake pans with paper liners (24 total). In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, combine the butter and brown sugar. Beat together on medium-high speed until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes. Mix in the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition and scraping down the sides of the bowl as needed.
Combine the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl. Stir together to blend. Add the dry ingredients to the mixer bowl on low speed, alternating with the milk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients, mixing each addition just until incorporated. Blend in the vanilla.
Using a 3 tbsp scoop, fill the prepared cupcake liners 2/3 full with the cupcake batter. Place a frozen cookie dough ball on the top center of each cupcake.
Bake at 350 for 16-18 mins.
To make the frosting, combine the butter and brown sugar in a mixing bowl and cream on medium-high speed until light and fluffy. Beat in the powdered sugar until smooth. Beat in the salt, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth and combined.
Frost the cupcakes and sprinkle with mini chocolate chips!
Makes 24 cupcakes.

Happy Columbus Day!

2010-10-11T13:40:00.003-04:00

Today is Columbus Day! The best part of this day is family time over a 4 day weekend--yes a 4 day weekend. And not only that but for the hubby a 3 day work week. Best week for him this year (other than his vacation time -of course). So we went to a birthday party this weekend. Grilled out with Jason's buddies. And today just hanging out. Here is a LO for the birthday party. The weather was perfect for a back yard celebration. It is now only in the 80s around here. Feeling nice. It's the first days for us in West Texas desert getting a break from the hot 90 degree weather. I also have a LO from this summer while visiting back home of Ruger and his friend. I hope these boys will be friends like I had friends growing up. My best friends were those I went to church with and they still are some of my closest friends. They are the truly best friends forever!!!

Lots going on over at JessicaSprague.com. New classes, more CTMs, and many more LOs. Head on over there to check it out. Here is my layouts for More In Store Monday...

Hello, I'm 2

New Template/QP by Creativity by Crystal

Full Credits

Boys + Friend

Splendid Finn's Feedsack Paper Pack &

Feedsack Ric-Rac & Messy Stitches

Full Credits

Welcome Fall!

2010-10-06T15:54:00.001-04:00

All the wonderful new products coming from JessicaSprague.com is looking a lot like fall. Here a some new layouts. Today is $1 BUCK Wednesday. Today there are 16 products each is just a buck!! One Buck Wednesday is every Wednesday!! I used Splendid Finn's Epoxy Mixed Bag and Echo Parks new digials Orchard Lane 2 Paper and Elements.
I can not wait to get some fall pumpkin pictures to show off! Well, I made it another week without my hubby. So glad he has a few days off. Hopefully I will get my fall pictures this weekend, we will see.

Credits

Credits

Thank You Hybrid Cards & CT Search

2010-09-27T14:22:00.007-04:00

New Product at JessicaSprague.com!!! I love all the new things popping up at JessicaSprague.com. This is the new digital for hybrid kit from Elle's Studio. I love these new Thank You Segments. Check out Elle's Blog!

Complete list of credits

With all the new things happening at JessicaSprague.com. Jessica is looking for new CT members! Go here for more details. Yay for more Creative Team Members!!

I have

2010-09-23T21:04:00.011-04:00

some catching up to do on posting. Here are my recent creativity with digital supplies.
Well my poor baby was given shots this week and I made it alone! It was a hard week with no one to help out in the evenings. Being apart stinks. I am proud that this week is almost over. Whew!

My first to post actually hybrid 12x12 page. I think I will be doing more hybrid pages! It was a lot of fun and pretty easy!
Credits from JessicaSprague.com

So here is a bag I was given for a shower gift. I have placed photos with 4x6 mini pages. I thought of this as a page all together. I am really pleased the way it turned out.
Credits-In the Making Designs

and of course a page for the baby book. Credits-JessicaSprague.com

R's Hand Prints. I am exicted about this layout. I 'digitalized' his hand prints for his baby book. I used Jessica's Photoshop Friday Ep. 6 to create this page with his hand prints.

Queen of Quirk & Pasilee Press| You Are Here Full Kit
Kitschy Digitals|Fabric Covered Buttons Kit
Jessica Sprague| Photoshop Friday Ep. 6

ReFreshed

2010-09-09T14:52:00.004-04:00

Now refreshed from our holiday vacation for Labor day. I have made a page for Ruger's book. 4 months now, wow I cannot believe how fast 4 months has flown by!! Enjoy.

Credits

2010-09-01T16:58:00.005-04:00

Here are some new layouts. Today is One Buck Wednesday at JessicaSprague.com. Where you can get this Quickpage for $1 today! And the Me & My Brother On the Go Elements.

Supplies

Supplies

baby book layouts

2010-08-16T12:08:00.005-04:00

Life is Today
JessicaSprague.com
Elle's Studio
Journaling Hour By Hour
Crystal Wilkerson
Crystal's {Sweet Vintage Charm} Papers
{The Room Collection} Element Pack
September '09 Lots of Labels
LivE
I Sing for Spring!
Ali Edwards Life is Crayon Brushes

2 months
Elle's Studio
Sacalloped Journaling Tags- brights
Splendid Fiins
@ the office paper pack 1
Queen of Quirk
You Are Here Full Kit
Knotty Girl Paper Pack
LivE Designs
Popsicle Labels & Frames
T-Stickies: 100%
Creativity by Crystal
Crystal's {Tons of Scallops} Template Kit
Oh Boy! Papers - On the Road Again
Crystal's {Sweet Summertime} Paper Pack#2

August, already?

2010-08-02T22:10:00.004-04:00

He is 3 months already. Time flies these days!

Jessica Sprague's Photoshop Friday Episode 6

New layouts

2010-07-31T23:25:00.005-04:00

Everyday Moments
all products from jessicasprague.com

CREDITS HERE

New honeymoon layout. I am almost done with this project. Now I just have to come up with a good cover- Island in the sun

CREDITS HERE

So yeah...

2010-07-22T13:56:00.007-04:00

This is when I went with my mom and sisters to the beach in St. Simmons, Georgia. My Mawmaw lives near by. We took a day at the beach while we were visiting the grandparents for a few days.
all from jessicasprague.com
Elle’s Studio
XL Journaling Tags
Queen of Quirk
Sitting Pretty Accent Pack
Crystal Wilkerson
October '09 Sweet {Eye Candy} Elements
{Happy Spring} Mega Paper Pack
Splendid Fiins
@ the office Paper Pack 1
iKara
Alpha Bits: Stamped - Bundle

2010-07-06T23:55:00.003-04:00

We spent Independance Day in Georgia. My grandmother and my aunt were visiting too. We went to the parade in my hometown and then later went to a fireworks show. Which I missed picking up my husband from the airport at the wee hours of the night. This weekend I felt like we celebrated extra long from Saturday to Monday. I am glad we spent it with family! It was a great fourth.

from Jessicasprague.com
In the Making Designs-Tricolor Elements Pack & Tricolor Paper Pack
Nisa Fiin-(faux)laroids
Crystal Wilkerson-December '09 Holiday Alphabet Stickers
LivE-Sketched Framers

2010-07-05T20:29:00.001-04:00

jessicasprague.com
Queen of Quirk
Sitting Pretty Paper Pack
Crystal Wilkerson
November 2009 Paper Collection
November Collection "Happy Little Owls"
September '09 Lots of Labels
Splendid Fiins
Sew Crafty - messy stitches vol 1

engaged?

2010-06-24T23:45:00.004-04:00

My sister is now engaged! Tuesday night while concealing at a Bible summer camp my sister was proposed to. I was lucky enough to have attended, not at all expecting this. I am happy for my sister and Scott.
So still visiting in Georgia and spending some time in the sun. Photos to follow soon. (I need to start posting the same day).

:Credits:
jessicasprague.com
Kari Holt Glitter Spills
Linda Roos
You Are Awesome Kit
Crystal Wilkerson
November Collection "Happy Little Owls"
{Playground} Paper Pack
Liv Esteban
Softly, Gently - The Kit Elements

Katie Pertiet On the edge brushes

everyday

2010-06-23T00:13:00.005-04:00

Right now I really want to scrap only everyday kind of photos. They tell so much more about what is really happening at the moment and catching those memories of just the everyday. Scrapbooking is not about looking at pictures of what we 'looked' like, but more about telling a story and capturing it in a image. This week here are my everyday photos of one day in my life I plan on doing more of a collage of this day with more photos. This was of my husband after work and me during the day holding our son.

:Credits:
jessicsaprague.com
Queen of Quirks: Father Time Paper Pack & Scrap Canvas - Broken Column
Creativity by Crystal: Crystal's {PLAYGROUND} Element Pack

Birthday Blog hOp!!

2010-06-18T22:00:00.004-04:00

It's finally here the jessicasprague.com birthday blog hop. Because you are awesome, the designers and the creative team is offering great freebies!

Sorry the link has expired.

Remember to collect all the quotes stripes in each download and arrange the phrase correctly and email it for a chance to win a special raffle prize! Pick them up before 10pm June 20th (that's when the hopping ends). JessicaSprague.com is still having their store sale with 20% off until Monday June 21, 2010. Also don't forget to register for her new class that she is offering for free!!!!

Your next blog is Monica's blog simply remarkable. Head over to Jessica's blog if you are just getting started or missed out on all the freebies!!
Check the rules for the blog hop in the last post.

happenings

2010-06-14T13:21:00.005-04:00

My life is a little out of place right now. I am in Georgia for about a month with my family. It is fun, but out of the norm for a while. Having to take care of business while in town too and it is making me go insane. I hope to post pictures of my time here and scrap some too!

Anyway, this is what is happening at jessicasprague.com for the 3 year birthday celebration! First there is a FREE class you can register for now. There will be an AWESOME blog hop Friday so do not miss out!!! And there are challenges this weekend only--you even have a chance to win something if you participate. So help celebrate with the all the fun things happening at js.com!!!

Happy Birthday

2010-06-07T14:45:00.009-04:00

to jessicasprague.com!!!
For the Birthday Celebration going on now the whole store...including self pace classes currently available are on sale for 20% off from now till the 21st!!!

Also jessicassprague.com will be offering a new class starting June 21! Get this It's FREE! Computer Tricks for Cardmaking is the all new class.
So here is a new layout and one of my new favorite kits from Kitschy Digitals Granny's Attic Kit...

*credits*

here is a matching page...
*credits*

OBW

2010-06-02T18:34:00.005-04:00

One Buck Wednesday at JessicaSprague.com today only!! Here are some layouts using Crystal Wilkerson's Kits. These will be going in Ruger's baby book.

Credits

Credits

Preggers Layout

2010-05-25T02:47:00.003-04:00

I have been working on my sons photo/scrapbook. Here is one of my favorite pages using all products from JessicaSprague.com. I hope to make my son a baby book to record all the memories.

Jessica Sprague
Template D
Crystal Wilkerson Sweet Summertime Paper #1
Sweet Summertime Paper #3
Sweet Summertime Paper Add On
July 09 Office Supplies