The Happy Challenge: Day 87

Waiting to see the doctor

Day 87 of 100 Happy Days Challenge.

We had a follow-up appointment with the pediatrician today, and all the best happy stuff occurred during our time at the doctor's office.

1.  The toddler got along with his doctor so much better this visit. She was great, making the quick check-up a game. When we were talking about some of his follow-up care, and he kept trying to get the doctor's attention, I knew he was okay with her. It was great! I'm so glad I chose her for his pediatrician.

2.  While we were waiting for the doctor to show up in the exam room, we were looking at a copy of The Cat in the Hat. Since he has this on his tablet, he's familiar with the story, but I didn't realize he had learned to read some of the words until we got to a page, and he read the actual words: "Sit, sit, sit" while pointing to the words on the page. Yay - the tablet has redeemed itself!  :)

3.  So happy to see the toddler interested in the Etch-A-Sketch that was in the exam room. We don't have one at home, so he's never seen one before, but he had lots of fun playing with it. I love when he's interested in the "old school" toys that I grew up with!

The Happy Challenge: Day 45

Day 45 of 100 Happy Days Challenge.

Happy #1 - Saw this photo on Facebook, and it cracked me up!

Happy #2 - One of the first activities of the day for the toddler - and he was the one who instigated it!

Happy #3 - As I was scanning through email this morning, I came across an ad using one of my favorite colors. I think I'm going to have to add this color to my wardrobe!

The Happy Challenge: Day 44

Day 44 of 100 Happy Days Challenge.

After my toddler woke up this morning, we sat on the floor to read a few books. It is always so much fun to see him get excited about books.

Also, before I moved on with my day, I unearthed a stack of books that I hadn't yet read, so I thumbed through them just to remind myself of what I was missing.

Books. One of my very first loves. And definitely a hobby that makes me happy!

The Happy Challenge: Day 14

Day 14 of 100 Happy Days Challenge.

Despite a busy day where my plans got tossed out the window due to unanticipated last minute work projects, I do have a couple of happy highlights.

Happy Highlight #1:

While trying to get the work projects completed, the toddler amused himself by playing with all his little race cars and watching episodes of Chuggington and Curious George - and no whining about wanting the tablet!

Happy Highlight #2:

Found the time to make a gluten-free vanilla cake (a mix from Namaste) while cooking dinner so that I could have the cake with strawberries and whipped cream for dessert!

Happy Highlight #3:
I discovered via Facebook that Lauren Graham (from Gilmore Girls and Parenthood) had published a book called Someday, Someday, Maybe: A Novel, which just released today. I had time to read a little of the excerpt on Amazon, and although I won't be purchasing it anytime soon, I would probably read it in the future. What little I read intrigued me enough to want to read more.

So while I know the 100 Days of Happy challenge was to find only one thing a day, I think it's a plus if I find more. After all, the whole idea of the challenge is to have one realize that there are good things in every day and to learn to live a happier life.

I can live with that. ;)

My Journey to Cooking

For the longest time, I've been wanting to capture the memories of my first cookbooks, especially since I definitely don't cook as much these days as I used to. Cooking was one of my favorite hobbies at one time. I used to cook a lot in my twenties, even holding informal dinner parties or potlucks. But, that's a story for another time. Today, I have a layout I completed that records my journey into cooking.

CREDITS

Papers: Retro Momma Artsy Add On Papers (Crafty Button Designs)

Elements: Retro Momma What's Cookin' Good Lookin' Elements, Retro Momma Brushes,  Country Rose and Country Rose Washi Tape (Crafty Button Designs); Negative Frames (Carina Gardner); Alpha Cards (Paula Kesselring)

Mask: Maskin Momma Photo Mask Pack Vol. 4 (Crafty Button Designs)

Fonts: Bebas Neue (title); personal font (journaling)

The journaling reads:

"I remember receiving my very first cookbook around the age of 6. It was The Happy Pixies' Cookbook, which was made by Hallmark. It was a beginner, lift-the-flaps cookbook, with really simple recipes like scrambled eggs (although it was called Teddy Turtle's Eggs Mix-A-Roo). I really liked baking, so around the age of 8, my aunt Mary gave me my first REAL cookbook - the Betty Crocker Cooky Book. I also got the Betty Crocker's Cake and Frosting Mix Cookbook shortly thereafter. And that's how I began collecting cookbooks. Today, I still have my first three cookbooks, but I now have an extended collection of ethnic cookbooks and more books about baking, along with The Joy of Cooking - a must for the collection, even if it doesn't have photos. Strangely enough, I don't bake a lot these days, mainly because gluten-free baking seems harder for me because I haven't had a lot of success. In any case, if I have the time, I do like cooking just for fun, even though my 3 year-old is a little picky."

I have to admit. I'm glad I still have my first cookbooks on my shelf. And it was really fun to use the Retro Momma collection on this page. One more page to add to my "All About Me" book!

A Special Graduation Gift

Today on Facebook, I spotted a story that was going viral (even though it was posted in June 2013) of a special gift from a father to his daughter on the day of her high school graduation. What a very special idea to give a child!

And yes, that's my copy there on the right.

Literary Lover

I've always loved books. They are portable and entertaining. And if a book is really good, you can re-read it! I finally got to capture a little bit of my book love in a challenge layout...

CREDITS

I’d Rather Be Reading papers and elements, Snarky Snippets: Books, Razzleberry Mixed Media papers, Sew Artsy 3 papers (Michelle Godin Designs)

Wanderlust (Pink Reptile Designs)

Font: Jenna Sue

Template: August 2012 Facebook Freebie template (Amy Martin)

The photo is of the northwest entrance of Powell's Books - one of the best ever bookstores! I know I had a photo of the inside too, but I can't seem to find it in my photo archives - one of the drawbacks when photos are filed chronologically, lol!

Friday Scraps

Instead of creating during some free time (aka nap time) today, I went through my email, scanning some of the scrapping-related emails that I never get to read when they come in. A few caught my eye, and I have to share my favorites.

Hidden Journaling

Too Much Happy by Kim Watson

I LOVE the idea of hidden journaling on a layout. Unfortunately, it works best for traditional scrapbooking - I have yet to figure out how to use it digitally! :)  Cocoa Daisy's blog had a posting on yet another way to hide journaling. This tip and layout is from Kim Watson.

Die-Cut Cards

Raisin Boat just released a new set of stamps called Just Add Love, and they have the cutest apron-shaped card using a stamp from this collection.

Vintage Graphics

Courtesy of The Graphics Fairy

One of my favorite resources for vintage graphics is The Graphics Fairy. This cute graphic was posted on June 7. I am dying to use it on a layout somewhere. Guess I'll have to pull out those old photos that have been waiting to be scrapped! :)







New Scrap Tips Help Book

Courtesy of Everyday Storyteller

Although I own tons of books on scrapbooking, I'm always interested when a new one comes out. A new one called Everyday Storyteller by Jennifer S. Wilson has hit the shelves. It has articles and tips from published scrapbookers. The book's table of contents is definitely worth a look, especially if you are new to scrapbooking.





New Ideas from the Garden Girls 

Photo Dreams by Jen Gallacher

I was looking at some of the new creations on the Two Peas site, and I absolutely love this one called Photo Dreams by Jen Gallacher.

There are lots of other layouts that I loved, and I'm just going to have to scraplift a few of the ideas. Now, if only I had more time... LOL!

Digital Jenni Bowlin Products on Sale

If you are a fan of Jenni Bowlin's designs, then head on over to www.JessicaSprague.com to check out the sale on Jenni's digital scrapbooking products. The sale is only going on through this Sunday at midnight, Pacific time.

Okay, that's all I have time to share today. Hope you have a great weekend!

Recycle and Reuse, But This?!?!

I'm all for being green, but I think this is going a little far.

Crafting with cat hair??? There's something a little wrong with this. I can't quite express it verbally, but it just seems wrong. You can read more about this book by clicking on the picture. 

I guess this definitely fits the bill for finding something for someone who has everything. LOL!

Creative - A New Definition

While perusing Amazon this evening, I came across a "suggestion" for me with an interesting title. The book is Creative Is a Verb: If You're Alive, You're Creative. What really caught my eye was this particular sentence in the product description: "Creative Is a Verb is equally a book for people who say, 'I’m not creative' or 'I’m just a dabbler' or 'I’m an artist.' "

So many times I have friends who say they wish they could create scrapbook pages or albums like I do. Personally, I don't think I have any outstanding talent - there are LOTS of other people out there who make these artistic creations that just astound me. I do, however, believe everyone has their own style, whether it is simple, elaborate, minimalist, grandiose... I believe we are all creative in our own ways. Even engineers are creative. The best example of watching an engineer be creative was in the movie Apollo 13, where the engineers had to figure out a way to fit a square piece to a round hole.

I haven't actually read this book, but the title alone intrigues me enough. For all of you who say you aren't creative...STOP thinking that and just do it. Find your inner creative self. All that matters is if the creation "speaks" to you or represents what you want. Capture the now!

Okay, enough inspirational talk for tonight! Hope you all have a great Wednesday!

Rut

Sometimes I get into a creative rut because I'm tired or working too much. And when it comes time to create something, I just don't have any idea what to do.

Last night, I was having trouble sleeping, so I started thumbing through Journal Revolution by Linda Woods and Karen Dinino. I had purchased it awhile ago, but I hadn't picked it up in ages. This book is AMAZING!

As I turned page after page, I was suddenly inspired. True, it wasn't inspiration for my usual style, but at least it was something to get my creative juices flowing. So here's what I had time to create this morning.

This pretty much sums up my week, lol. Can't wait for the weekend...

Like a Kid in the Candy Store

On the way home from work, I ran a few errands, including a stop at the library.

I had every intention of just picking up the books that were on hold--that's all. However, the library bookshelves were calling to me, so I went ahead and let them lure me in, just like those sirens in The Odyssey. This is the result...

Now that may not look like that much. But, here's the current library stack at home...
No, I don't really have time to read/listen/watch everything that I get from the library, which is why some of it gets renewed like a million times! :)

Is there a 12-step program for books????

Off to bed and to do a little reading...ha, ha!

Note to Self...

Step away from the bookstore.

I should know better than to walk into a bookstore that's having a 50% off sale, plus a great clearance on books.

Rules for Christmas Shopping

Rule #1: Go to a store where you want to buy all sorts of stuff for yourself.

Rule #2: Buy what you want--after all, aren't you worth it?

Rule #3: Take out your Christmas list.

Rule #4: Review your financials.

Rule #5: Create IOUs for everyone to let them know you'll get them a Christmas present after you win the lottery.

Just kidding! ;)

Suz and I braved the morning crowds and went Christmas shopping today. We did really well--hit 5 stores in about 4 hours. That includes the time that we spent at her house before and after the shopping expedition.

Our first stop...Sephora, located inside JC Penney's. No, it probably wasn't a good idea to go there first since the only presents we would buy there would be for ourselves! But, we also got a 20% off all purchases coupon (good for today only), so we couldn't walk out of there empty-handed.

Then, we stopped a Build-A-Bear, which is always fun, even if you don't buy anything. However, Suz didn't leave without bringing home a new addition...

Yes, it's the Grinch (which happened to be on TV last night)! I didn't even know Build-A-Bear had licensed characters, but you could also make Shrek, Rudolph and Clarice, and Cody (from Surf's Up). Of course, I also found something I'll eventually take home with me...
I've always had a little thing for stuffed monkeys. I think it's because they remind me of one of my favorite people. (Just teasin', M!)

Isn't this monkey cute??? I didn't buy him today (cha-ching at Sephora!), but I figure I'll adopt him sometime next year.

Suz and I also made it to Toys R Us. It wasn't that crowded when we arrived, and although the line was long, it moved quickly. It's so much fun being in a toy store at Christmas time, with the exception of screaming children. Now tell me why parents bring their kids to a toy store at Christmas?!?!? Are you really going to be able to shop with them tagging along? Anyway, we both managed to cross several gifts off our list with this visit.

The last two stores were completely spontaneous. Walgreen's is the only store I know of (oh, except for maybe Rite-Aid) that sells mini candy canes (or baby candy canes, as Suz calls 'em). Of course, they weren't on the shelf, so Suz had to ask for them--and yes, they did have them, but they hadn't re-stocked the shelves). We also had to ask for help getting some butter cookie tins down (who the heck puts that stuff on a HIGH shelf?!?), and I had a special request to be checked out at the cosmetic counter. Can you say high-maintenance shoppers??? I'm sure the assistant manager and the two other people that helped us with all our questions were quite happy to see us leave.

Oh, and it snowed while we were shopping! Nothing too big--just snow flurries, but so much more fun than rain. It only lasted for a little bit on and off today, but I always love seeing the flakes come down.

Suz and I also stopped a Bi-Mart, a store I've never been in until today. It was an interesting experience, to say the least. As Suz put it, who sells guns right down the aisle from tampons??? Yes, an eclectic store (as Shawn called it) is probably the best description! Just don't put a woman with PMS down that aisle!!! Hee, hee!

I also met up with my friend Linden. We finally got to see The Jane Austen Book Club at the movie theater. However, this wasn't just ANY theater. The movie was playing at the Living Room Theaters, which is the best experience I've ever had during a movie! The seats are wide, plushy, and comfortable. There are big drink holders on the chair arms, which also happened to be padded and wide. Best of all--we shared an ottoman! And, you can also order food when you first walk in, and it will be delivered to you at your seat. Isn't that awesome??? I definitely have to go back to this theater! It's like watching a movie at home, but better because of the service, which I didn't actually try out, but we got to watch some other people take advantage of the the ordering process.

Oh, and the movie, The Jane Austen Book Club, which is based on a novel by Karen Joy Fowler, was funny and smart. (I have a feeling it will end up in my DVD collection once it makes it out on video.) Since Linden and I love Jane Austen, we had to see this movie. She had already read the book and heard the movie was even better than the book--a rarity. I hadn't read the book yet. But, right after the movie ended, Linden and I walked across the street to the mother ship...Powell's. We LOVE Powell's! And of course, there happened to be used copies of The Jane Austen Book Club in the store. Sold to two buyers. Yes, as Linden pointed out, we could have bought one copy and just shared it, but being the bibliophiles we are, we each got our own copy, along with some other books that were screaming to be taken home. Sigh...I never walk out of Powell's without something! I swear I'll have to donate the 300 million tons of books to a library in my will. After all, no one in their right mind would want to take them after I die...LOL!

OK, must go finish reading a book that I have to return to the library tomorrow and start on my latest purchase so Linden and I can compare the movie with the book!

BTW, if you're looking to be remembered by that someone special, you'll find this diamond ring at Costco.com. Yes, that REALLY is the price! Insanity!

Have a good week--if I'm not back sooner!

$20 Bucks of Books

It's always a scary thing for me to go to the library, because I always come home with a huge pile of books. And tonight was no exception. The Friends of the Library (I think that's what it's called) was having their book sale. Look what I brought home for $20...
No, none are literary classics or masterpieces. I fed my addiction for romance and chick-lit novels. Guess what I'll be doing while I'm sitting at airports!

So, if you want a great bargain, the main branch is having a terrific book sale. You'll also find videos and CDs. I only made it through one table (and it was just the romance books) before I couldn't carry anymore, and when I got to the cash register, the helpful volunteer let me know that they will be restocking the sale tables daily.

Great. Just what I needed to hear. I skipped over the computer books, the poetry and play books, cookbooks...guess that means I'll need to make another trip. Hmmm...I wonder if this counts as a tax deduction since the library is a worthy cause? ;)

Mentalpause

I walked into the store yesterday, said hi to the gals, and told Sheri, "I have a few things to talk about with you."

Sam said, "You must be pregnant."

I looked at her in disbelief, and said, "Bite your tongue." Then we all laughed.

Sam explained that the only reason she said that was because that's what a lot of pregnant women will do--just walk in and say that they have a bunch of stuff to talk about.

That's a relief. I thought she meant I looked heavier than usual! Anyway, in my case, I only said that to Sheri because I'm forgetful!

I have to do better about writing everything down. I just finished a book from the lirbary called Mentalpause. It is hilarious! It's written by a woman named Laura Jensen Walker, who is a breast cancer survivor. The book is targeted at the over-40 years folks and is a bunch of vignettes about going through early menopause. Laura went into early menopause after her bout with breast cancer.

Anyway, the reason I mentioned that I have to write everything down is that the first chapter describes what mentalpause is:

"...it's not just menopause, it's mentalpause.
My memory is gone.
I'll be in the middle of an important conversation, start to begin a new sentence, and poof, it's vanished. Lost forever in the Bermuda triangle of mentalpause.
Or I can't remember names of common things around the house.
Like door.
Sink.
Husband.
I'll be explaining something to whatshisname, perhaps discussing a project that needs to get done, and the name of the item I'm discussing simply eludes me (although the project doesn't much to my husband's dismay).
Finally, I point at the offending object in frustration and say, 'Whatever that thing is called. You know what I'm talking about!' "

Well, at least Laura has a reason for losing her memory. I'm not even going through menopause, but yet I'm experiencing mentalpause for sure. What's MY reason????

I watched a segment recently (don't ask me when!) on The Today Show that talked about a menopause survival kit. Did you know that two of the items that you need in there are sticky notes (i.e. Post-It notes) and a lightbulb?

So you're probably asking, "Why a lightbulb?"

It's because you need more light (helps with your mood to think it's sunny), so they suggested stocking up on brighter bulbs. Hmmm...in my case, I just know that I see better when a room has more light. Blame it on my failing eyes.

As for the sticky notes/Post-Its, well, it's fairly self-explanatory. You write things down so you don't forget them!

Last night, my friend Glenn and I tried out a new Japanese restaurant. One of the discussions we had over dinner was about turning 40. We are both stressed out about it. Who knows why we have such anxiety? The one thing is that we're wasting these last few months of being 39 by stressing about aging! ;) Anyway, it's nice to be able to commiserate with someone else about the whole issue of turning another decade older. People over 40 have no sympathy, and those under 39 just think you're crazy or tease you about getting older. Yeah, nice. Oh, and the Japanese restaurant? Glenn and I both gave it a thumbs up for great food and ambiance.

On another note...guess who was guest starring on Rachael Ray today...LL Cool J! Now I think LL is totally hot. Have you ever seen his abs? Wow! And lucky me, I got to see 'em when Rachael "beat" LL at strip air hockey. LL was on the show to promote his book about getting in shape. Boy, talk about inspiration...LOL!

I leave you with this quote from Mark Twain: "When your friends begin to flatter you on how young you look, it's a sure sign you're getting old."

Just yesterday, Sam told me she thought I was 29. I'm so in trouble!