Words to describe Self

Inventive Exciting Thoughtful Powerful
Practical Proactive Productive Professional
Quality Quick Balanced Achiever
Knowledgeable Leader Literate Logical
Initiator Original Outgoing Particular
Patient Active Positive Consistent
Compassionate Incredible Independent With Integrity
Mediator Emotional Cheerful Forgiving
Sensuous Generous Sporty Devoted
Candid Rebellious Cooperative Industrious
Interesting Racy Meditative Understanding
Quirky Quixotic Optimistic Accomplished
Adept Analytical Articulate Artistic
Self Disciplined Contraversial Individual Tolerant
Naive Green Unselfish Sophisticated
Stable Strong Successful Tactful
Talented Team Player Fun Intelligent
Changeable Passionate Intense Intuitive
Upbeat Vibrant Funny Constructive
Customer-oriented Dependable Direct Loyal
Competitive Political Modest Social Consciousness
Courageous Enthusiastic Enterprising Entrepreneurial
Facilitator Focused Genuine Open Minded
Wise Sensitive Sense of Humor Sensible
Sincere Skilled Solid Communicative
Helpful Seeker Manage Still
Fast Reach Seize Choice
Responsible Act Acheive Simple
Results-driven Results-oriented Self-reliant Organised
Knowledgeable Logical Personable Pleasant
Flexible Adaptable Persuasive Perceptive
Insightful Trustworthy Easy going Good listener
Imaginative Warm Ambitious Diplomatic
Curious Leader Optimistic Accomplished
Adept Analytical Articulate Artistic
Self Disciplined Contraversial Individual Tolerant
Naive Green Unselfish Sophisticated
Stable Strong Successful Tactful
Talented Team Player Fun Intelligent
Changeable Passionate Intense Intuitive
Upbeat Vibrant Funny Constructive
Customer-oriented Dependable Direct Loyal
Honest Assertive Attentive Direct
Broad-minded Committed Conscientious Dynamic
Hard Worker Persistent Mature Methodical
Motivated Objective Tenacious Sociable
Friendly Realistic Reliable Resourceful
Respectful Responsible Creative Confident
Traditional Trustworthy Unconventional Unique
Ecclectic

Picture the Holidays: Day 31

It's hard to believe that the year is really coming to an end, but hasn't it been enchanting spending the past 30 days together collecting the last images of 2010?

Today, let's shoot something that encompasses our intentions for the New Year.

Consider what you want to set into motion for the next year and try to capture something that will keep your intentions fresh in your mind.

An iconic symbol of something important to you is one way to keep yourself mindful of it.

Try to visualize a mood, thought, intention, dream and/or wish and then "picture it" for today's prompt

Scrapbooking goals and Dreams by Lain Ehmann

One of my favorite kids' movies is Up! The movie is adorable, inspiring, touching, and it brought me to tears more than once.

Central to the movie's plot is a scrapbook -- something created by one of the characters in her youth, meant to contain all the exciting adventures she has through her life. Without giving too much away, her life doesn't take the path she anticipated, and her husband worries he's let her down by not undertaking the adventures she'd dreamed of.

What hit me was the idea of unlived goals -- that life really is very short, and if we put something off indefinitely, "tomorrow" eventually becomes "never."

Scrapbooking is a fantastic way for us to not only track the dreams we've achieved, but for us to commit to the dreams that we'd like to go. In fact, I've created a list of ten dreams I'd like to achieve in the next few years and made a special album to track my progress in. Let's see how many I can achieve -- I'm certain it'll be more than if I hadn't written them down.

What about you? Do you write your dreams and goals down? Why not create a scrapbook page about your dreams? It certainly can't hurt!

Picture the Holidays: Day 30

We gave the past its due, now it's time to turn towards the future. There is so much to look forward to with new beginnings on the horizon. There's no turning back now…it's full steam ahead in the best possible way!

Today's challenge is to visually translate the idea of moving forward.

Onward ho!

Note: Turning your back on something doesn't have to be a negative. It can be a sign that the old ways of doing things are no longer needed as you embrace the new. Sometimes that kind of paradigm shift can help you move mountains. Use today's prompt to explore how you feel about the ending of one year and the start of a new one.

How to Simplify Your Stuff and Honor Your Memories

Link to blog that the following article came from:
http://www.becomingminimalist.com/2010/09/29/how-to-simplify-your-stuff-and-honor-your-memories/


By Courtney Carter, of Be More with Less

“I have memories – but only a fool stores his past in the future.” – David Gerrold

As you simplify, you will notice that the most important stuff is left. This applies to kitchenware, toy boxes, closets and even to your sentimental treasures. Often times, the most difficult stuff to get rid of, is the stuff soaked in memories. We become attached to things that remind us of our past, and our loved ones. Your great grandfather’s pocket watch, your first pair of roller skates, or your son’s artwork from kindergarten, all transport you to another time, and usually fill you with lovely memories. Unfortunately, because you don’t want to clutter your home with stuff, these treasures are buried in boxes in the garage or attic, only to be rediscovered during a move, or a trip down memory lane.

I must admit, I am a sap and a sentimental fool. I get teary driving past a wedding, hearing stories about my grandparents or cooking one of my favorite dishes from childhood. In my life, I have saved notes from the 4th grade, albums from my first rock star crush, my daughter’s first bathing suit, heart shaped rocks from hiking with my husband and jackets my dad gave me that never fit, but were so cool, because they were his.

How do you get rid of the stuff that means so much, and evokes so much emotion, in the name of minimalism and simplicity? There are several ways to simplify the sentimental. Each concept includes focusing on what is most important and honoring your history.

Share the love. Unless you are on a mission to live with less than a certain number of things, why not display some of your sentimental items? Less does not mean none. Paring down your objects of memory does not necessarily mean ridding yourself of them all. Instead, paring down your sentimental items allows you to focus on the most meaningful. Chances are, the things with all the memories are in a box in the garage or attic. Sort through those boxes and choose the things that mean most to you and your family and display them. Sometimes we hold onto things to hold onto people that have left our lives. Honor the ones you love by sharing what was theirs.

After all, a box full of memories stashed in the basement is far less meaningful than 3-4 specific items displayed proudly in your home. So go through that box of mother’s things in the basement, select the 3 that most represented her life and the influence that she had, display them proudly, and remove the rest.

Make it useful. Did you save the china that your parents received on their wedding day or a special necklace that was passed down to you? Why not use it? Donate your everyday plates and eat off the dishes that mean so much. Wear the memorable piece of jewelry every day instead of waiting for a special occasion, or forgetting about it completely. You may come across things that you can’t use and don’t want to keep, but someone else will find your sentimental items to be quite useful. Use them or pass them on.

Put it in the cloud. If you have been saving printed photographs, documents, receipts and other paperwork for years, it might be time to digitize your docs. Sort through it all and toss the trash. Scan the rest or hire someone to do it for you, and organize in folders. From there, back it up through Dropbox.

Shoot your stuff. When you are uncluttering, save the things that mean the most to you, and take a picture before letting them go. Preserve the memories inspired by stuff through photography. Group items creatively or take pictures using the things. For instance, if you saved a baseball hat from your childhood little league team, take a picture of your child wearing it. Create a digital photo book with images and descriptive text, so you can enjoy your memories without the clutter. A book like this makes a beautiful gift to someone else in the family who wants to enjoy the memories without the clutter.

Tell your story. The most powerful thing we can offer is our story. As you simplify your life, you will come to the realization that the most sentimental things aren’t things at all, but stories of the people and places we love, and how we spend our time. Write about the things you love, instead of holding onto them. Start a family blog or keep a personal journal. Your words may start out describing your mother’s watch, but turn into a beautiful story about an afternoon the two of you spent together.

Approach each area or section of your life the same when it comes to letting go, and revel in what unfolds. Not only do you make room for the good stuff, but you can clearly identify what is most meaningful to you. Instead of filling boxes with the things that define your life, spend more time creating your life, giving to others and sharing your story with actions, thoughts and gratitude.

What other ideas do you have for shedding sentimental stuff?

***

Courtney is a writer and fine art photographer. She writes about simplifying and living life on purpose at Be More with Less. You can also follow her on Twitter.

Picture the Holidays: Day 29

As the year draws to an end, we often look ahead to the New Year: making resolutions, setting intentions, eager for a fresh start. But today you are not going to toast to all that is to come, instead I'd like you to look back on the year that's passed to honor the journey.

Raise a glass (of whatever your magic elixir might be), sing a song, give yourself a hug: anything to celebrate you and where you've been.

You've come a long way baby! And you made it.

Note: Take your shot in close proximity to the subject, but shoot it wide (24mm) so you can capture the whole scene. If you have a lot of celebrating happening, try this approach. It tells a "big picture" kind of story, which is exactly what you need sometimes.

You are richer than you think.
You have friends and family,
Dreams and determination,
Potential and possibilities.

Your talents are many,
and so are your strengths.
In fact they out number any obsticles in your path.

Whatever difficulties arise,
they are no match,
for someone as creative and capable as you.

Picture the Holidays: Day 28

A slight change in it can make all the difference. Sometimes turning something on its ear is the most refreshing shift in how it's perceived. Just like with life, a photographic image isn't always as it seems. When you use a tool to alter your creative vision on purpose, the results can be surprising and illuminating.

Find something, anything, that changes the way things look today. Shoot through your water glass, a window, or even through something that's not quite as clear as you'd like it to be, just to see what happens. There is beauty in mystery. It's your job to discover it.

Note: Let light be your muse today as you shoot into a looking glass, whatever it might be and watch as your perspective is illuminated.

Picture the Holidays: Day 27

The weather outside might be frightful (I wouldn't know, I live in Northern Colorado and it's 60 degrees outside right now) but even with winter's chill, fresh air is the best medicine. After shopping malls and gathering indoors so much this month, braving the elements, even just to snap a photo can be a perfect change of pace.

Shoot one of Mother Nature's gifts today. Something that boasts of the season and showcases the splendor of the great outdoors.

Note: Give yourself a few minutes to let your spirit wander amidst the elements - experience with all your senses, being outside. Feel and smell the air. Take a deep breath and let your eyes delight in the wonder all around you. You'll know exactly what to shoot if you give yourself a little time to find it.

Picture the Holidays: Day 26

If you have a mess on your hands today, never fear. There is beauty to be found even on those days!

As you go about the big tidying, be aware of the order that rises from the chaos. There is a visual respite there waiting to be discovered. When you see it, you'll know. Your lens will know what to do.

Note: Sometimes focusing on the tiniest details (like texture or subtle color) can bring your attention to something extraordinary. Try to shoot something that draws your eye to what might normally go unseen.

Picture the Holidays: Day 25

Chances are today you'll find yourself amongst family or friends celebrating one another and this glorious season. I don't have to remind you to take your camera, that's for sure! But even while you're in documentary mode, try finding something off the beaten path.

Turn your lens toward something that sheds light on the day - a detail, angle, perspective that tells the story beyond any traditional portrait.

Note: Sometimes our favorite shots end up being those images that makes us think, contemplate, or even laugh out loud. Enjoy your day and have fun with your camera, whatever you do!

Picture the Holidays: Day 24

No matter what your background, your beliefs, your outlook, your age, there's bound to be a level of enchantment to be found. Muse on all the ways you can visually translate some sense of awe and wonder during this time of magic.

Allow yourself to get swept off your feet today and look at the world around you with the eyes of a child! Capture your shot today with wide eyes.

Note: Recently I was seeing the play Peter Pan and I recall vividly the scene where the audience was asked to help save Tinkerbell by exclaiming, "I believe, I believe!" The whole crowd was chanting it! I get chills just thinking about it. Today's prompt might be a challenge but when you go out looking for enchantment, you usually find it.

Picture the Holidays: Day 23

Ah, the sweet smell of holiday baked goods. There lies the blessing and the curse. But today, let's focus on the good stuff: the loving kindness that comes from the baking and the mouth watering satisfaction of the devouring.

Shoot a sweet treat today that you long to share and/or savor.

Note: Consider elements like texture and color of your subject for this. You're invited to play with your food today! Your challenge is to capture a shot that's mouthwatering.

Picture the Holidays: Day 22

It's around this time of year that we really need to rest.
Rest?! Now? I can't rest now…there's so much left to do…
That might be true and in fact, that's exactly why I encourage you to take a break.

I'm giving your permission to shut down today in order to properly reboot - even if only for 10 minutes at your desk during your lunch break; when you put the baby down for her nap; or even right now in the middle of what you are doing.

Because your prompt today is to capture rest, however you can manage it, I'm holding you accountable. Tricky, aren't I?

Note: Images of sweet slumber can ease our troubled minds. Let yourself enjoy the feeling of drifting off to dreamland, if only for a short visit. Sweet dreams.

Picture the Holidays: Day 21

Sometimes all you need is a little nudge to help you readjust your attitude. Today, let's show a side of you that might be last on the list of to-dos. Get silly, sassy, sexy - whatever you need to lighten the mood!

Today you're encouraged to show a little (or a lot) of "sass-itude". Get creative and show off your wild side, whatever that looks like to you.

Note: Simple gestures of your body can translate attitude. You can work the same magic with inanimate objects too. Try capturing something (yourself or otherwise) that really speaks of the attitude you want to express today.

Picture the Holidays: Day 20

Whether you've even begun to wrap presents yet is beyond me, but there is nothing more beautiful than the gifts all wrapped up in anticipation of being unwrapped and enjoyed.

Today find a gift adorned in its holiday best!

Note: Try focusing on something you might normally overlook for this one. Packages are artwork in and of themselves. Honor that idea and you'll find that what's on the surface sometimes does matter.

The movies that move

Picture the Holidays: Day 19

I don't know about you but I'm big on lists. If I don't write it down, chances are I won't remember it! Lists are for to-dos and don't forgets, but they can also be for hopes and wishes (especially in the season of giving and receiving).

Today, share your list in one way or another. Focus on the whole or on a tiny yet significant part. Give us a glimpse into what you jot down to help you remember.

Note: Humor me today; as a gesture of self-kindness, write something down somewhere on your list that will help you to keep your perspective. You don't have to shoot it for your prompt unless you want to. The object here is to whisper a sweet nothing to yourself that you will stumble upon later. It will be just what you need.

Picture the Holidays: Day 18

Chances are today will find you amidst the hustle and bustle of the crowd. All the more reason why you need to remember to recharge when you need it. A day of pre-holiday madness can really take it out of you.

Today I encourage you to tune in to your needs and when it's time to take a break, heed the call. A simple recharge is sometimes all it takes. Take a deep breath, have a seat, relax your shoulders and allow for a little downtime. It's called self-love and we all deserve it. Especially this time of year!

Note: This "break" doesn't have to involve food. I just couldn't resist this heart shaped foam! You can take a breather a number of ways so capture how you do it with a photo.

Tree Tradition

Holiday Yummy

Picture the Holidats: Day 17

Nothing beats the warm glow of candle light. There is something so sacred about lighting a candle, especially during the holiday season. I have started using candles in my every day life for a number of reasons. Each time I strike a match and burn a candle I am reminded of the power of intention and how my own attention can make such a difference in my daily life.

Today, capture the glow of a candle to signify what is meaningful in your life. Make a wish, set an intention, pray, meditate and shoot.

Note: You do not have to wait until dark to light up the dark! Candles are for anytime.

awesome for keeping track of layouts you like from all over the web

you should check out VisualizeUs.com.

It is awesome for keeping track of layouts you like from all over the web.

I love it. If you set it up right, all you have to do is click on a button in your bookmark bar and it will post it to your visualizeus account. Then when you want layout ideas later in the week, you log into that account and they are all there for you (with original links back to the site you saw it, so you can give credit). Seriously, once I learned about it, it changed my life!

Picture the Holidays: Day 16

They call this the season of lights for many reasons and there are ample opportunities to shoot light in its many shapes and shades.

There is nothing more compelling than a literal bokeh of holiday lights.

The first time I captured lights like this, I was as giddy as a kid on Christmas morning! My guess is you'll feel it too.

Note: This one takes lots of practice so be patient and have fun experimenting with focal lengths, points of focus (or lack of), aperture and shutter speeds. .

Above all else, it is about leaving a mark that I existed:
I was here.
I was hungry.
I was defeated.
I was happy.
I was sad.
I was in love.
I was afraid.
I was hopeful.

I had an idea and I had a good purpose and that's why I made works of art.

Felix Gonzalez-Torres

Picture the Holidays: Day 15

We've made it to the half way mark of the season already. Time if flying by! Since this is the season of giving, today is the day for putting some of your beautiful photos to good use. We are creating gift tags and/or mini note cards using our photos. That way, your tag will be just as special as the gift inside.

The first part of this process is to shoot an image or images that you'd like to use for tags. You can make unique tags for each gift or you can choose one images and use it on all of your tags this season. It's up to you!

Note: You don't have to tackle this whole project today if you don't have time. Feel free to shoot tag-worthy images! If you do make a tag today, feel free to shoot a photo of the tag to share. I'd love to see your handiwork!

Pause

sorry

I was updating the blog for next year and for some reason it posted today instead.

Wish

Picture the Holidays: Day 14

This is the one time of year where the near lost art of letter writing is revived. And even that might soon vanish with all the options of e-cards and email. As much as I love e-everything, nothing can replace a greeting crafted by hand.

You are encouraged to slow down a little today and appreciate all the handwritten epistles you come across. Whether they are to you, or from you, revel in the delight of letters and cards. Signed, sealed and/or delivered, capture sentiments crafted with love.

Note: If you want to infuse today's shot with a nostalgic feel, concentrate on the absence of color. The less color in the shot, the more antique the result will feel. A vintage-style photograph can be achieved even without post processing if you shoot more monochromatic subjects.

Picture the Holidays: Day 13

No matter what holiday you celebrate, chances are there is something divine about it. There is a reverie this time of year for forces far grander than ourselves. We honor our family, friends, connection, love, light and a source that makes it all possible.

Find a way today to translate the truth for you. Share the divinity in your life, whether it be through an obvious symbol or an overall feeling you carry, work on bringing it to your photography today.

Note: Capturing what's intangible can be challenging. Using the symbols that speak to us of what we cannot see, hear, or touch can help - especially in pictures. But don't be held to just objects. You can think above and beyond the box on this one. Just feel your way.

Picture the Holidays: Day 12

It's been said that smiling is contagious. I think it's true. Smile and the whole world smiles back at you. Well, maybe not always. As much as I hate to admit it, this time of year can bring out the crabby in people. But, let's not focus on that! Let's let a big ol' grin work its wonders on us so that in turn we can smile, smile, smile!

Today, wear a smile and search for the people or things that smile back and capture a happy face!

Note: Humor and happiness chase the blues away in any and every season. No matter what kind of smile you find (something literal or more figurative), let it bring out the best in you!

Picture the Holidays: Day 11

I believe that once you open yourself up to something, that something just keeps coming! Little shifts in how we look at the world around us can reveal a whole new world to us and our lenses. No matter how much I see it happen in my own life, it still delights me. I'm surprised daily at what I find.

Pay attention today, in your comings and goings, to the shape of things. See if what you find reminds you of anything else. Nature works in mysterious ways like that, have you noticed?

Note: Sometimes more than something obvious, there is something you'll find that might only speak to you. Photography is like that. That's why our unique points of view are important. What matters is that our imagery makes us happy. Why create anything unless you yourself love it? When you share your image in the classroom gallery today, be sure to share with us what it is you captured and what it resembles.

Picture the Holidays: Day 10

Twinkle lights, fantasy, wishing and whimsy; they are all a part of the season. The trick is translating the ambiance we see with our eyes and the glow we feel in our hearts into effective photographic images.

Don't be afraid to let the light in for shots that sparkle! An extra slow shutter speed (way beyond what you can normally hold by hand) can make for amazing photos that shine! Try capturing something today that twinkles!

Note: You already know I believe strongly in the power of experimentation. That goes double when you attempt the illusive shutter drag to capture a shot. The featured photo today was a happy accident (love those) shot at Disneyland. As we were riding Small World I had a great view of the exterior of the ride all lit up in holiday fashion. My flash was off, and my aperture was wide open. I clicked the shot from the ride (while in motion) and I could hear my shutter open and close soooo slowly I knew I wasn't going to get the shot I wanted. Was I wrong! This kind of shot can only happen when the power of magic (and an open mind) is on your side. Check the Tip Sheet in the Picture the Holidays classroom for more on dragging your shutter.

Picture the Holidays: Day 9

There is nothing more fun than discovering the right word at the right time. It may be meaningful and telling or it could just be something random and entertaining.

Signs can warn us, lead us, remind us or even state the obvious. Whatever the case, it's our job to interpret the signs as they pertain to our own lives. What the signs really say is up to us.

Note: Words and phrases are everywhere. We are inundated everyday with messages. Be aware of the words you take in each day. Seek out the affirmations, answers or reminders that are out there looking for you today

Act

Recall

Wish

Picture the Holidays: Day 8

Reflective surfaces can be creative muses in your photography. There is no way of knowing exactly how the reflection will translate. That's what makes it so much fun!

Have you ever looked into a mirror as a means to see things a little differently? Look around and see how unique the world around you can look in reflections. Mirrors, glass, metallic surfaces all offer us opportunities to see and shoot with a unique and often unexpected perspective.

Shoot something in a reflective surface today and see what you find. It could be you looking back at you, or it could be some other kind of seasonal magic. It's all in how you look at it.

Note: Mirrors will give you a little more of an expected shot while other surfaces could distort your subject. The more you experiment, the more you'll discover! Allow for trial and error time and be patient. The object is to have fun reflecting!

Reflect

Picture the Holidays: Day 7

Being (and staying) balanced can often be as easy as checking in with ourselves from time to time. Tuning into our own body and mind is a simple emotional gauging tool we often overlook. Today, take a few moments to be still. Breathe in and out and just allow yourself to be and to feel. (I'll wait.)

Well? How are you today? What is your body saying? How about your mind? Your heart? Listen to the shouts and the whispers, take it all in, and then exhale. Now, get your camera and interpret those feelings.

Note: This can be a self-portrait challenge if you'd like to make it that (as I did in the featured image). Use a self-timer, a mirror or hold the camera in your hand and point it back at yourself. Or express yourself in a totally different way. It's up to you. These are your feelings after all.

Picture the Holidays: Day 6

Begin this day with eyes wide open to the tiny wonders that are constantly swirling all around you. Even at the most ordinary time of day, while doing the most mundane tasks, little moments of enchantment will reveal themselves.

Find some small delight today.

Note: An overwhelming stack of holiday wrapping felt like a real chore until I found this delicate spiral in the mix. Something small like this is often all it takes to make your day!

Picture the Holidays: Day 5

Chances are it's chilly outside today, after all winter is coming. Whether you choose to brave the cold and venture outside today or you gaze just out your window, take a few moments to enjoy the view.

A picturesque landscape, falling snow, the road that stretches out before you, winter foliage: it could be anything. Take stock at what beauty Mother Nature has dished up today. With a deep breath, take it all in, and click.

Note: When we shoot a "view" we tend to shoot wide and go for the quintessential landscape shot. You can't beat that approach for sweeping vistas. But what if you're view isn't vast or grand? You can still share what you see effectively by only including select parts of the view in your frame. Your view can be either infinite or a vignette. It's up to you.

Picture the Holidays: Day 4

We all have at least one magic remedy that no matter what, will give us the perspective that we need. The key is to remember what that is and pull it out when we need it most.

Because this month is about enjoying ourselves and not letting the craze out there get the best of us, use today to remind yourself of your own soul cure so you can have it at the ready for whenever you might need it.

What helps you to slow down, take a deep breath and enjoy the moment? Capture it!

Note: Tools for peace of mind can consist of anything. I know that a walk always helps get me grounded. Or a talk with a trusted friend. Maybe it's reading a few pages of your favorite book or just some cleansing exhales that help you. Creatively capture that thing you need to soothe your soul. Use the image to draw on throughout the month.

Picture the Holidays: Day 3

Love is at the top of the list when it comes to the meaning of the holiday season. Love of family, of friends, of ourselves. Love for the Earth, love of the Devine, love for humanity, love of the ages. They say that love is all you need and in so many ways, they are exactly right!

Today, focus on love. Feel it. Be it. Capture it. Share it.

Note: Hearts are the obvious choice when visually translating love. I don't know about you but obvious or not, I cannot get enough of them! If you choose a heart today for your prompt see if you can find one that might be a little out of the ordinary. Feel free to just let yourself stumble upon something (hearts are everywhere when you start looking for them) or create a vignette of love to shoot. Either way, let your heart be your guide

Picture the Holidays: Day 2

Beginning December in a calm state of mind might seem easy (now). But, the frenzy of the holiday season can get the best of us and sometimes can come on with very little warning. There will be good days and bad but the gist is to look at this holiday season a little differently. This season, we aren't only going to 'hope' to enjoy it (amidst the chaos) we will enjoy it! It only takes a little reframing.

As a symbol of looking at things a little differently, today you'll be using a literal frame for your image. You get to decide what goes in your frame today and how you choose to capture it!

Note: Have as much creative fun with this one as you want. Use the frame with an image already in it or take the glass out and use it in a totally new way. Your point of view is what matters here. Show us what you see, framed!

If your heart has never belonged to a child that is a soldier

If you have never loved a child that is a soldier, then
-You wouldn't know how it feels to watch him leave, never knowing when you will see his face again.
-You wouldn't know the pain endured and tears shed with every good-bye.
-You wouldn't know how it feels to hope and pray he comes back.
-You wouldn't know how it feels to cry yourself to sleep for months on end, and the longing to simply touch his cheek.
-You wouldn't know the heartache after missing his long awaited call or the hint of happiness when you realize that you are now able to listen to the voicemail over and over again.
-You haven't truly felt the lack of sleep until after those long phone calls or email chats that go on until midnight his time, six A.M. yours when you have to get up for work at seven.

If you've never loved a child that is a soldier
-You wouldn't know how it feels to go to a restaurant or to the mall, attempting not to notice Parents and their Children holding hands or being together, trying to hold back tears, knowing it will be twenty seven weeks until you can look into his eyes again.

If you've never had a child who is a soldier,
-You would never be able to comprehend the immense pride that fills your smile when you wear his sweatshirt with 'ARMY' across your chest. To always keep him close to your heart.
-You wouldn't know what its like to cuddle up with his blankie and grasp the teddy bear he safely cuddle as a child, knowing that its the closest to him you can get.
-You wouldn't understand how decorating the back of your car with bumper stickers could ever be cool, and the connection you feel with another whose car wears the same emblem as your own.
-You wouldn't know the sacrifice, the willingness to let go of someone you love so much for the good of faceless strangers who would not have spared him a passing glance, had he been in his civilian clothes.
-You wouldn't know the feeling of uncertainty, never knowing where he will be sent next year, or next week.
-You would never know how it feels to be left behind with your hopes, dreams, and fears, to hold your breath for the next couple months until he comes home.

If you've never loved a child that is a soldier,
-You would never fully know the meaning of the phrase: 'HOOAH'
-You wouldnt be able to comprehend the anxiousness of waiting for the mailman, the extreme joy when a letter finally arrives, and the tears that follows as you read his quick scribbled handwriting.
-You wouldn't ever have to send a letter with its stamp upside down to a faraway camp in a land you rather not know about.
-You wouldn't understand the anticipation leading up to the day when you can once again hold him in your arms.
-You wouldn't know why that feeling of awe over a man in uniform, has suddenly become a deep longing and grief because you miss your child so much.

If your heart has never belonged to a child that is a soldier
-You wouldn't know what its like to become ecstatic when you see a man in dress blues across a billboard, freak out when you watch the commercial on T.V., and feel your chest tighten when you read a sign that says Support our Troops, Bring Them Home!
-You wouldn't understand why I just bought that young soldier his meal, cup of coffee, or just simply said "Thank You."
-You wouldn't understand this because you do not realize that he wanted to fight, and as much as you want him to be home where it is safe, you know our country needed him more.
-You'll never understand the strength you have to muster up to be strong and put on a smile for the world, even though you feel so weak inside.

Unless you've loved a child that is a soldier,
-You wouldn't know that the meaning behind my smile is heartache and longing, pride and joy, willingness and uncertainty, and a love great enough to cross oceans, encompass deserts, transcend mountains, and overcome anything that comes between.

Picture the Holidays: Day 1

So, it's December 1st which means the holiday season is officially upon us (insert exhale here).

With the giving of thanks still fresh in our hearts and minds, let's start off our month from the best place possible: a place of gratitude.

Take a few minutes to focus on all the things you have to be grateful for today and then, choose a perspective in which to capture at least one of those things in a photograph.

Note: You can be as literal or abstract as you want here. If you are just happy to have a warm cup of tea at this point, then shoot that! If you're thankful for a feeling or a state of mind, then challenge yourself to translate it visually. There is no right or wrong way to capture what you're thankful for as long as you shoot with a grateful heart.

Picture the Holidays - Photography Insights and Tip Sheet

Light
Considering photography revolves around light, there is a lot to talk about in regards to the subject! It’s one thing when you’re shooting outside in the bright sun of summer and a whole other situation when you’re spending time indoors with limited natural light. The winter months can be brutal for photographers that rely on natural light as their muse. Shorter days and inclement weather can make shooting more difficult and sometimes a lot less fun. You’ll be encouraged to focus your attention to the subtleties of light in a whole new way. There is a lot of practice, trial and error and experimentation you’ll want to toy with. I’ll cover a few of the basics that might pertain.

Ambient Light
Trying to work with existing light when indoors can be challenging – especially at night. Working without a flash challenges our preconceived ideas on what is possible. Because I choose to shoot without a flash when I can get away with it, I have learned to understand what is possible (and what’s not) when it comes to my camera and the available light I can find (especially in my own home).
Ambient Light (or existing light) is the light surrounding an environment or subject. When pulling out as much of it as possible, you will usually need the help of your ISO, a wide open aperture and/or a slower shutter speed. All of these key topics (I call them the magic trio*) are covered in detail in the tip sheets from my past classes and can be found in the Picture the Holidays classroom. Even still, I am often amazed at how well my camera will do in poor lighting situations. I encourage you to test out your camera’s ability to shoot in lower light settings to see what it’s capable of.

bigtip:
Often when shooting indoors in low light (during the holidays it can happen a lot) the ambient light casts a yellow tone to your shots. Sometimes this is lovely and sometimes it’s not what you’re after. Remember that you can experiment with the custom white balance of your digital SLR to get better results. The other option is to color correct in a photo-editing program. Even the simplest editing software will offer a way to dial down the yellow and/or dial up the blue hues.

Artificial Light
Sometimes the flash is needed when it’s just too dark to shoot without any additional light. The key is to think of your flash as a secondary light source, not a primary. The ambient light should be considered the main light source as it’s the most “natural” to your environment – whether it’s window light or a light that’s turned on. You want to capture the ambient light when you shoot, even when using a flash. You’ll get the most visually appealing shots this way, but it’s not always easy. I encourage you to set some time aside to test and try your camera’s flash when you’re not under pressure or at an important event. Point and shoot cameras have all kinds of settings that make the flash act in different ways that will hopefully work for you, but you should learn how to turn off your flash because if you leave it up to the auto mode, your flash will be popping up all the time, whether you like it or not. This goes for some of the modes on your SLR too. Just remember that your camera’s modes and auto features are there to “attempt” to give you optimum results. That doesn’t mean it’s always right.

For more about optimizing your flash’s potential and improving your flash photography, visit Digital Photography School and read the article 7 Strategies for Avoiding Flash Blow Out. It’s super helpful!

bokeh
Strange sounding but oh, so dreamy, bokeh is a Japanese word meaning blur or haze that is best described at Wikipedia as “the way the lens renders out of focus points of light”. There is soft and creamy, dreamy bokeh and there is the bokeh where lights translate as circles or circle-like shapes. There are ample opportunities to include the light as circles type of bokeh in your photography. Throwing holiday lights out of focus creates the seeming magic circles that appear in photographs. Depending on your aperture setting and how far you are away from the points of light will dictate how big, little, defined or undefined your circles will be.

Check out the holiday light bokeh tutorial at the Roberts Donovan blog for some how-to help.

Quick & Simple Review of the Magic Trio of ISO, Aperture & Shutter Speed

ISO
The lower your ISO number the more light you need, the higher your ISO number, the less light you need. Shooting indoors means you’ll most likely be setting your ISO to a higher number.

Aperture
The lower the number of your aperture, the wider your lens is open, the less light you need. The higher the number of your aperture, the more closed (or “stopped down”) your lens is, the more light you need. Shooting indoors means you’ll most likely want to set your aperture to a lower number. Just be mindful of your depth of field. For more on DoF, see the Picture Fall tip sheet.

Shutter Speed
The lower the number of your shutter speed, the slower your lens will open and close, the less light you need. The higher the number of your shutter speed the faster the lens will open and close, the more light you need. Remember that the slower the shutter speed is (60, 30, 15, etc) the more chance for blur you have. Hand holding your camera when the shutter is set lower (and slower) makes it difficult to get non-blurry shots. This is when people use tripods or makeshift tripods (coffee tables for example).

Dragging the Shutter
Although our instincts tell us that we don’t want blurry photos, sometimes the blur can work to our advantage in creating a compelling shot. Dragging the shutter means that you set your shutter speed slow enough (low number) to capture blur on purpose. When the sound of your shutter gives you a slow sounding “click click” you know you’ve set it to drag.

Why would you want to drag the shutter? To get as much ambient light as possible, to create a feeling of motion or to get ghost-like effects. There are many techniques that will help you maximize the effect of the drag. One is to drag it so that the only subjects that are blurred are those that are moving.

Here are my favorite ways to do it:
1. If you set the camera on a flat surface (or a tripod) and shoot someone walking past, the person will be moving across the frame of the image while all other parts of the frame will be still.
2. If you drag the shutter and use a flash, you will pick up tons of ambient light in the shot but the flash will stop the movement. You can still achieve a ghosting of your moving images if your shutter is set slow enough. I have used this shooting wedding receptions and it gives an awesome party effect. It’s great for holiday shots too. It picks up the warm glow of the candles or tree lights but also captures your subjects. Again, trial and error and experimentation!

How to Apply Edible Art to Food

There are many edible cake art images available for cake decorating, that will make your cakes stand alone in excellence.

You must follow the directions carefully for best result and ease in application.

Tips to Apply Edible Cake Art:
- Make sure you have clean, dry hands before touching the image. If you are working with a frozen cake, let it thaw a bit before applying the icing. Edible Image(r) cake decorations need a bit of moisture to blend into the icing.
- If the cake is dry, spray it with a light mist of water, brush on light karo syrup, or add a thin layer of icing before you apply the image so it will stick to the cake. If your cake is moist, don’t add water or moisture to the cake. Too much water will cause the colors to run.
- Once the image is applied, it cannot be removed or moved. Know exactly where you plan to place the image. Using care apply the image to your cake, face up. Once the image has been applied, tap the image down gently with your fingertips. Start from the center of the image and work toward the edges.
- If the image should become moist or hard to remove from the backing, it can be placed in the freezer for a couple of minutes, the image should peel off easily.
- If the image should bubble after it is applied, gently tap and DO NOT RUB the image.
-If the cake is still frozen after application, it should be placed in the refrigerator to thaw slowly.
-Avoid exposing the image to ultraviolet light. The image may fade over time, as with any food coloring.
- If the image bubbles during freezing, again you can gently tap the image.


Handling and Storage of the Image
- Edible Image(r) decorations should be stored in the silver bag it came in, and kept in a cool, dry place.
- Make sure to reseal the original bag after you remove an image.
- You will need to use the image immediately after it is removed from the bag.
- Once you have finished decorating with Edible Image(r) decorations. You can store your product as you normally would. The images are freezer, shelf, and refrigerator friendly.


How to apply the Images to other products

- Ice Cream:
-To apply the image to a cake frosted with ice cream or non-dairy whipped topping, do not add any additional water. If you are applying the image directly on ice cream, you should let the ice cream melt just a bit before application. When you are working with soft serve ice cream, you will get better results if you apply the image while the ice cream is soft and then freeze it.


Buttercream icing
- Apply the image immediately after icing the cake. Buttercream will form a crust about an hour after they have been applied. If this has happened, spray the icing with a fine mist of water before you apply the image.


Frozen Cakes
- Thaw a bit before icing to avoid cracks forming in the cake, then you can apply the image. If the decorated cake is frozen, you will need to let it thaw slowly in the refrigerator, uncovered, so the cake will not sweat and the colors will stay true.


Royal Icing
- Make sure you add a good mist of water over a cake iced with royal icing before you apply the image


Non Dairy Whipped Topping
- When working with this medium, do not add any extra water before you apply the image. Keep the finished cake in the refrigerator to maintain the integrity of the image and the topping.


Rolled Fondant or Sugar Paste
- When placing an image over sugar paste or fondant, plan where you will put the image. With a small paintbrush, apply a good amount of plain water. Brush water only where the image will be. Any water outside the image will leave a mark on the fondant or sugar paste. Although you must be sure to apply enough water, or the image will not stick.
- Edges can be tapped down with a very small, slightly moist paintbrush.


Poured White Chocolate, or other poured icings
- Apply the image while the icing is wet. Be sure your cake is on a flat surface or the image may slide. Standard Instruction for Application

Scrapbooker's Appointment Book for 2011

I am always looking for a new calendar, one that might keep me better organized.
And honestly, it needs to be kinda fun too!

The very talented Kristin Rutten, owner and writer behind Log Your Memory, has come up with the perfect solution for scrapbookers everywhere!

The Memory Logbook 2011:
- Half-Year Combo Set (first half of the year pictured above) is perfect for jotting quick notes, keeping track of important appointments (scrapbooking- and non-scrapbooking-related), sketching designs, writing shopping lists, and more.
-Also available as a Memory Logbook 2011: Full Year Download (so you can print and bind your own) or as a Memory Logbook 2011: Full Year Print Edition. 8-1/2×11″ sizes available as well!

The website link is: http://logyourmemory.corecommerce.com/cart.html

Here’s what I love about the Memory Logbook 2011: Half-Year Combo Set:

•The small, 6×8″ format, perfect for perfect for taking with you or stashing in the car!

•Variety of calendar options inside the book itself (month-at-a-glance or weekly spreads)

•Questionnaires and page prompts for lots of journaling ideas (“Today’s Prices,” “Birthday Memories,” “Monthly Check-up” all include a dozen or more questions to capture the details of the event)

•Weekly challenges section for going deeper in your scrapbooking

Here’s what I wasn’t so crazy about:

•I’d prefer the paper to be bright white as I’m a big color person (I take notes on my calendar and in my notebooks in vivid felt-tip hues!), so the off-white color of the paper throws me a bit. I could bypass this issue by downloading and printing my own Memory Logbook 2011: Full Year Download on my choice of paper.

•I’d prefer a few more blank pages in each weekly section so I could add my own ideas, stories, and sketches (I’m a prolific doodler!). Again, I can sidestep this minor issue by printing my own.


Whether you want to download and print your own, or order one ready for action, I encourage you to check out Log Your Memory for tons of great resources to assist in your scrapbook storytelling.

From a book of lists to the year-long logbooks, there’s plenty for a scrapbooker to fall in love with! Kristin obviously knows first-hand what scrappers want and need.

Tutorial: Orgami Boxes

Check out the link below to make cute boxes out of book pages.


http://www.creaturecomfortsblog.com/home/2009/12/16/diy-origami-box-ornaments-by-samantha-miller.html

Text Message Poem

In a pushed-back chair in a crowded room,
Unaware of her surroundings, many assume Sits a middle-aged mother, phone in hand
Quietly texting as fast as she can.

She had waited all week without a word;
Had cried many times til her vision was blurred.
Then the message “Just want u to know I’m OK”
Appeared on her screen as she sat in the café.

Her friends had smiled as she snatched up her phone
They knew who it was by the sound of its tone
And the relieved expression that washed over her face
Their voices grew hushed as they gave her some space.

Now strangers nearby give a puzzled glance And are wondering why she grabs this chance. Why she first smiles, and then wipes a tear And seems so oblivious to all who are near.

But her time is precious and her minutes are few
To send back her replies
“I luv & miss u
“Do u need anything?”
“R ur buddies OK?”
And “Did u have a nice day 2day?”

In no time at all it comes to an end
As she writes one more message and presses “send”.
For her soldier must leave now and be on his way
Where he’s going, he cannot say.

She longs and prays for the day he comes home
But today her love must be sent through her phone.

poem by Cynthia Gibbs

How do you choose a scrapbook page title?

Are your scrapbook layout titles taking their toll on you? In the past week, I’ve gotten a couple of questions about titles, specifically, how to come up with good ones.

Titles are important for several reasons:

•They set the tone for your layout
•They serve as an entry point for your scrapbook page, telling readers where to begin
•They can play a design role, adding to the overall look and feel of the page
Before I jump into a discussion of titles, let’s talk about not having a title at all on a page. This is certainly an option, but not one I recommend for general purposes. Think about going to the bookstore and browsing the shelves. A beautifully designed cover catches your eye, so what do you do next? You look for the title. If there is no title, you might be intrigued enough to open the book and leaf through, but in general, if there’s no title, you’ll just move on to the next book.

Think about your scrapbook layouts. If someone is leafing through your album, they might glance at a page with no title, but they won’t give it the same level of attention as they would if there were a strong title to pull their interest and get them engaged.

Here are some elements of good titles:

•Engaging — makes the reader want to know more
•Introduction to the page (you don’t want to make a “promise” that you don’t deliver on with the rest of your layout)
•Related design-wise to the rest of the page (it doesn’t stick out awkwardly; looks like it’s supposed to be there)
Whew! That’s a lot to do with just a few words!

There are different styles of titles, just as there are different styles of pages.

What title styles or inspirations do you like to use most?


Song, book or movie Titles
Punny
Just the Facts

Tips: Painting on Canvas, flowers or tags

Ideas to keep in mind when painting:

• Use stamps in your acrylic paint.
• Use a spray bottle of water to make the paint thinner, and remove brush strokes.
• Paint from the outsides in, creating a “frame” on the page.
• Dry brush.

Paint your flowers.
• Take the acrylic, and go around the edges with a loaded brush.
• Spray water on the flower, and you’re going to see it literally paints itself.
• Repeat with the second flower.
• Allow to dry.

Paint your tag in a similar way.
• Take some paint & simply brush it on, going around the edges put a dark coat.
• Spray with water
• Allow to dry.

The tag will curl when you paint it because it’s only a one-ply canvas.
You can just uncurl it or you can put something on it like a couple bottles of paint.

Cutting the Crazy Out of Christmas

Remember that a change of attitude can be as effective as a change of action. This week we are going to talk a little bit about ATTITUDE. This is an important part of the philosophy of Cut the Crazy out of Christmas.

Obligations: Much of what we do at Christmastime we have no choice on. (Now, we know we’ve told you several times, “Only do the things you love,” but remember we also said, “within reason.”) So yes, we have control over many things, but other things we just have to do whether we like them or not.

If we can’t control certain situations, we can control how we react to those situations. This is a basic ‘positive attitude’ principle, but it is especially relevant at Christmas time. So, pretend you’re on your way to a party that you don’t want to attend. You’d rather be scrapbooking or doing just about anything else. But you have no choice, you have to go. Decide in advance how you’re going to act. You can be cheerful and pleasant or grumpy and ornery. You will make that choice and it will determine how you feel the rest of the evening. Instead of focusing on your miserable self, try to forget yourself and reach out to someone else. Hey, maybe they’re even less happy than you. Consider that how you act can be your gift to the people you interact with. Just decide to be pleasant. Teach your children this principle, and it will pay off in years to come.

Expectations: Most of the time, we go along with our lives accepting our circumstances and coping as best we can. Some women are in difficult circumstances – emotionally, financially, health-wise, or relationship-wise. It’s amazing how strong and resilient women are as they deal with the challenges life hands to them.
BUT – for some reason at Christmas, some women expect some kind of magic to happen and things to be better or different. We encourage you to TRY to have realistic expectations. We want you to BE AWARE if you are having unrealistic expectations. If you can be realistic, you can control your reactions and disappointments during the holidays.

IDEAS AND HINTS:
In this section of your planner, file any magazine or internet articles you find that are of personal interest to you. Maybe the magazine has a list of “Quick and Easy Dinner ideas for December,” or an article about how to set up a gift wrapping center in your home. Just tear the article out and put it in your binder! This is also the section where you put the downloaded page titled “Suggestions for a Simple and Joyful Christmas.”

“The Suggestions page is my favorite page in the planner. I don’t need any hints when I start my holiday planning other than the ten suggestions on this page. I complied this list from all my reading and talking about Christmas over the past several years.

Actually, doing the suggestions takes discipline. Suggestion #5 says to take care of ourselves by eating right, exercising during the holidays, and getting enough sleep. Lack of sleep seems to be a universal problem. One December I wrote an entry in my journal titled, “People Are Yawning.” I had noticed as I stood in a long line in the grocery store that all around me people were yawning. Christmas is a time when we often stay up later and get up earlier. It’s hard to maintain our seasonal jolliness if we’re exhausted. SO read through the suggestions and take heed!”

CHARITY & HELPING OTHERS:
For many of us, helping others is one of our top priorities during the Christmas season, but it often ends up at the bottom of the to-do list. To have a meaningful holiday season, most of us we want to reach out to others, yet the busy-ness of the season seems to make it more difficult than usual. How many times have you walked through a department store during the week before Christmas and noticed that there are still Sub-for-Santa ornaments hanging on the tree waiting to be picked?

If you long to do more acts of charity during the holidays, but are simply out of time, we encourage you to do something on the spur of the moment – a random act of kindness. Keep some cash in your wallet that you specifically saved to give away. Leave an extra big tip when eating at a restaurant – I mean a tip that will move your waitress to tears. And if it’s a waiter or waitress who “doesn’t deserve a tip,” leave a big one anyway. Your charity doesn’t have to involve money. Have you ever been in a line at a store cash register and had to wait while the cashier requested a price check? Have you ever smiled and said to the cashier, “That must be so frustrating for you to have a long line of customers staring at you while you wait for help from management. I feel for you and hope your day goes better.” That alone can be a kind of charitable gift. Hint: be kindest to the grumpiest cashiers and waiters.

GIFT LISTS:
This is also our week to start making gift lists. We have conveniently divided your gift lists into one list for your immediate family and one for everyone else. Even though it may be stressful to list every gift you have to give, it will help you be realistic and motivate you get started sooner. There’s nothing like crossing something off your list!

And now, our BEST HINT of all. Put an envelope to hold your receipts in the back of your binder. Just get a manila envelope (the 6” x 9” size works great), punch two holes in it, and place it in the back of your binder. As you shop, place your receipts in the envelope.

They will be there when you need to make returns or exchanges or when you need a receipt for a warranty. Make this a habit and you will be organized through the season and after Christmas as well. Remember as you make your gift lists that it’s important to be a “smart shopper,” but it’s even more important, especially at Christmas, to be a “heart shopper.” In other words, the loving message behind the gift is as important as the gift itself.

Sometimes we get so caught up in creating a “perfect” layout that we forget to just have fun with it. What if you sat down with a story you lvoed and a photo you loved and some products you loved and just created a page, not worrying about design, your handwriting, getting a great title, or anything else?

What if you scrapbooked just for the fun of it?

UHS Poms peerformance at the Patriot League Competition 11/19/10

The Squad took top points.
Too bad it was an exhibition and not a competion.
They were amazing and am very proud of how hard they have worked over the last few weeks.

Scrapbook Sketch to try

Does your Holidays cause your Scrapbooking to take a back seat?

Is your scrapbooking going to have to take a back seat to all the holiday festivities soon to be raining down on your home like a giant vat of candy corn? No way! Even if you only have 15 minutes here and there, you can still get your scrapping "fix" through the upcoming months. Through years of experience, I've honed my fast scrapbooking skills to the point where I have a list of tasks I can accomplish, even if I only have a break between the turkey and the pie. Here are 10 things you can do to keep on scrapbooking, even during the harried holidays:

Photos: You can't scrapbook if you don't have photos, so here are five to take this season:

1. Take photos of your ornaments. Later you can create a mini-album with the story behind each precious decoration.

2. Take photos of your favorite dishes. Use these when the house has calmed down to create a cookbook scrapbook of all your family's best recipes, with a photo of each.

3. Take photos of holiday outfits. Do your little ones have special duds they'll be wearing on the big day? Does Uncle Ed always wear that horrid reindeer sweater? Grab your camera and capture it.

4. Take photos of your wrapping process. Are you an organized type with everything in one place, and all the boxes wrapped by November 1? Or do you pull an all-nighter on Christmas Eve? Document your process.

5. Take photos of your Christmas or holiday cards. If you send all your cards and letters to others, how are you going to remember what YOUR annual card looked like? I have a mini-album just for each year's Christmas card, letter, and photo.

Preparation: Preparation is the better part of scrapbooking. Or something like that. Get ready so when you have a few minutes, you can scrapbook, fast!

1. Make page kits. Pull complementary patterned paper, cardstock, and embellishments together into a large-size plastic bag. Then add photos, and you're ready to scrap.

2. Make a list. Go through your supplies and write down what you're running low on. You don't want to finally sit down to scrapbook, only to discover that you're out of adhesive and kraft cardstock!

3. Purge your supplies. Take a few minutes and weed out old supplies that you don't think you'll be using again. Everything you get rid of makes it easier (and quicker) to find the stuff you will use in the future.

4. Clean. No one likes to spend their precious scrapping time cleaning, so grab a few minutes now to straighten your scrapbook space so you're ready to go when the family all falls asleep watching "It's a Wonderful Life."

5. Sort. Only have 60 seconds on the way to the bathroom? Grab the next three photos you want to scrapbook, and set them out on your scrapbook table. Start mulling over products, titles, journaling, etc., so when you can scrapbook, you'll be ready to hit the ground running!

The "What" in creating your scrapbook page

The next time you’re creating a scrapbook layout and want to work on the “What,” think about:

What do these pictures mean to me?

What am I trying to convey?

What do I want my readers to know about this event?

“If you don’t like something, change it. If you can’t change it, change your attitude.” -Maya Angelou

Multi-Task by Lain Ehmann

M – M stands for "Making things too hard."
Not only are we too hard on ourselves,we often look for the hardest way to do something instead of finding the easiest. For instance, if we have to bring treats for our daughter's soccer team, which I had to do last weekend, we immediately envision cupcakes baked from scratch, hand-decorated withsoccer ball icing made from rolled fondant and then inscripted with each girl's name and jersey number. Some days, we might be able to do that. But most of the time, we don't HAVE the time. And the good news is that most of the time, just getting it done is more than enough.

Woody Allen said that 80 percent of success is just showing up. That is so true! If we just get what we're supposed to do, done, and on time, usually, that's more than most people are doing. Then we can save our energy for the times that a little extra is going to go a long way – the times that are special for our families. So when we have treats to pull together for the team, instead of envisioning this wonderful handcrafted masterpiece, just go to the grocery store. Buy the little pre-packaged packs of goldfish crackers or Oreo cookies, and the juice boxes or water bottles or Gatorade, whatever is appropriate for your family, and go with it. That is enough! It doesn't have to be a masterpiece. You just need to get it done. And again there are some times when masterpieces are called for, or really are going to make a big difference. But most of the time, we don't get extra points for folding the clothes perfectly. We don't get extra points for sorting the laundry perfectly, or for making sure the edges of the dishes are lined up in the kitchen cabinet, or for saving three minutes when we drive our kids in carpool, or for making sure we have the "right" music on the radio when the kids are in the car. There aren't extra points for that. So just get it done. And that is enough.

U – is "Underusing technology."
We're linked to our email and computers, but are we using them to our best advantage? We need to find ways for technology to help us save time and use it more effectively, not to spend more time. And this goes for everything from creating reusable shopping lists on our computers, to recording TV shows on our Tivos or DVRs, to creating a blog for our extended family members to stay in better contact, to using Google Docs and Google calendars to keep track of our comings and goings as a family. So I have some ways here where you can save big time, without investing a lot of time up front. None of these is very complicated, but they will pay off in big time savings:

Create folders in your inbox. I get 100-plus emails a day. And there is no way I can read them all immediately. I sort them into folders so I can keep track of what's going on, what's the highest priority, and to make it easy to track down the information I need, when I need it. Instead of sorting through 5000 emails in my inbox, I've got them already sorted so I can quickly track down what I needed to find, and I've got it at my fingertips. An example of this is that I've created a file for each of my children. When I get the email for, for instance, the soccer snack schedule, I just file it in the email folder for that child. If I've got directions to an away game for my son's baseball team, I file it in his folder. I also make note of any dates on my calendar as I file them away, but then they're there if I need them, and I can access them quickly. I've also created a "To Read" folder in my in-box. I am signed up for a ton of different email lists, and again, there's no way I could read each one immediately. So what I do is, the ones I want to save for later, I just stick them in the in box in the "To Read" file, and when I have a couple of minutes, I can go to that folder, pull up the latest edition of my recipes newsletter or whatever, and peruse it, and read the articles I want to. I've got it all right there, and I've got it out of the in box.

-Speaking of food, my second suggestion is to use your Crockpot! This can save you HOURS a week and a ton of stress. Just by throwing a couple of frozen chicken breasts and a can of cream of tomato or cream of broccoli soup in, and even some noodles, and plugging it in on Low, you can have dinner ready and waiting for you. There are tons of great websites and cookbooks and using your Crockpot is really, really simple. I've included a list of some of my favorite sources for recipes in the resources PDF.

-My next suggestion might be a little controversial, especially with your husband, but it's a big one. It's getting rid of your TV. We've actually done this twice in our life. About four years ago we decided we were just spending way too much time on the TV set, so we decided to get rid of our cable service. Immediately we found we had more time in the day, to connect with each other, to get things done around the house, it was so productive. So we lived without cable quite happily for several years. And then last year we moved across the country and we ended up with cable TV as part of our package with our Internet service and our phone service. So we thought, Our kids are several years older, let's see if we can handle this. And wouldn't you know, within a couple months, the same thing was happening. We were just getting sucked into the TV and watching way more of it than we planned to, so we unplugged the TV. So we still technically have TV, but the cable is not hooked up to it. And I have to say, it is the best thing that we have ever done.

-My next suggestion is to create reusable worksheets and lists for chores, kids' schedules and activities, and so on. For instance, create a reusable grocery list on your computer, and hang it inside the kitchen cabinet or on the fridge. Check off things you need to buy. If there's something you need that isn’t on the list, just add it to the bottom, and the next time you print the list, you can add the things that weren't on there before. It's also a great way to get your family involved in keeping track of what you need, instead of just relying on you to make sure you have pancake syrup when you need it.

-Another suggestion is to get rid of your cookbooks. Now, I am a cookbook-aholic. I adore cookbooks. I had probably close to 40 of them if not more. And I found that when it was time to actually cook, I would go to Google, Google the recipe, and find it on a site like AllRecipes.com and use the recipe off the site, because I found it was much easier to find it online than it was to go through 40 cookbooks, looking for a particular recipe for pork tenderloin or chicken a la king or something like that. So what I did was I went through my cookbooks and tossed out over half of them. And now I have a few that I just adore and use frequently and know where the favorite recipes are, but for everything else, I just Google it online and find it really easily. There's usually a photo of the finished recipe, there's tips from other people who have tried it out, there are ratings, there's a shopping list, sometimes there's even a downloadable shopping list, and it's just much more efficient and easy. And actually a lot of fun, too.

-My final suggestion for this category is to get a GPS navigator! A lot of you have them already, or have cars with a GPS built in. But if you don't have one, it is the best $100 you could ever spend if you are a carpool mom or you drive your kids to a lot of sports activities. As I mentioned, we moved here about a year ago. My son is involved in travel baseball, and I was often traveling to areas I'd never been to before, and probably never would be again. And I have never been so stressed in all my life. I remember being in tears, driving my son with all his equipment in the back of the car, on a road that wasn't marked, trying to get to a baseball game, and we were late. And I'd be on my phone with my husband, and he was trying to find it on Yahoo maps. And even if you print the directions out online, sometimes the streets aren't labeled as you're driving on them, and it's just a nightmare. So I highly suggest getting a GPS navigator.

L is for "Letting things pile up."
Whether it's laundry or chores or errands or things to talk about with your spouse, our tendency is to ignore the little things until they become debilitating or huge obstacles. So my recommendation is to try to address things in the moment – or to schedule regular times to get to them if you can't do them right away. So for instance, set a time with your husband to go through household paperwork on a weekly or monthly basis, put all the dry cleaning items in a bag hanging on the back of the door, and set a regular time every week to drop it off. Do a daily walk-through of the main rooms of your house and corral all the toys and other objects that belong elsewhere. Just carry a basket or a bag and scoop up all those little pieces of Lego and books and toys and clothes, and get them in one spot. Make that appointment to go to the doctor to get your knee checked out, and to the dentist. We often put off these things, especially when they have to do with us alone, or our health. The problem is, those things do pile up over time, and then they end up taking up MORE time. One thing I do is, if any one thing doesn't require more than about a minute of my time, I take care of it immediately and get it done. So that might be rinsing out the dishes that are in the sink and putting them in the dishwasher. It only takes 30 seconds, but if I let them pile up, it becomes a big hassle and the stuff gets caked on, and it ends up taking more time. Or if I have an email I receive from a mom at my daughter's school asking me for information for a new doctor or a new class or something like that, I'll send it right away instead of leaving it in the in box to be taken care of later. The problem with leaving thins is that even when you just set them there to be taken care of at a later time, or you put the paper in a drawer to deal with later, it's still sucking energy from you – your subconscious knows it's there. It keeps in on kind of that front burner pile where it's still simmering away, because you don't have a place to park it for later. So what you do is you set up a regular time or you set it in a specific spot, and you know there's a time you're going to get back to it. Your brain will stop mulling it over and over, and it'll allow you to have more energy for other things.

T is for "Taking things personally."
Let's face it, we're women and we can be emotional. Even me, who rates as a "T" on the Myers-Briggs personality inventory – it's a personality test and one of the items that it judges is whether you're a thinker or a feeler. And I'm a T, which means that when I'm presented with a new situation or a new set of information, my inclination is to think it through and respond logically, rather than responding emotionally. Most women are F's, or feelers, and tend to be more emotional. But even I, as a thinker, I can still get my feelings hurt easily. The kids don't tell me they liked dinner, my husband forgets to hug me first thing when he comes home, the neighbor takes three days to return my call… all these can send me into a funk if I start dwelling on them! But a while ago I made a conscious decision to stop LOOKING for ways people were slighting me and insulting me. You know you'll find them if you look for them! So instead of interpreting everything as something negative against me or saying something negative about my personality, I decided I was just going to let it go and not interpret everything negatively. If you take every little thing to heart, you can easily become derailed, sidetracked, and overwhelmed. Yes, I still get little prickles when something happens. But I usually can either brush it off, or check in with a friend to confirm or challenge my perception of what occurred. Let's say I'm at drop-off at school and I've just gotten my hair cut, and somebody says, "Oh, THAT's interesting. When did you get that done?" Instead of immediately assuming they mean it in a negative way, I'll just assume that it came out wrong for them, that they didn't mean to say something that could be interpreted in negatively. Then if it's still kind of irking me, I might go to another friend and say, "Hey, did you hear what Sally said about my hair? What do you think?" and either she'll say, "Don't be ridiculous, your hair looks great," and I can let it go, or she'll say, "Oh my gosh, Sally just found out her mom's sick. And then I know it was probably something in Sally's life that was impacting the way she was responding to me. Then if it's something that I need to address, maybe a comment that came out really wrong and I need to get more information about, I can address it immediately. I do it sooner rather than later (refer back to L – letting things pile up!). If I let it just go, it could build and build in my brain until a small comment has become this huge problem. So address it immediately if it's something that needs to be addressed. Taking things personally is, to put it bluntly, a waste of time. And we just don't have time to waste.

I is for "Ignoring warning signs." And I'm going to tell you a little story here. As I mentioned, we recently moved to a new town, and we moved to a new house. It wasn't technically a new house. It was a converted barn, over 100 years old. It was charming and rustic and we loved it – for about two months. Then the mice came. First, just a mouse or two here and there, then a veritable onslaught of mice, ending with us having caught over 50 mice in a period of two months. There were other issues, too – there was no insulation in the house, no air conditioning,
no double-paned windows. And these were things we had just taken for granted, coming
from California where most of the housing is much, much younger than it is here in New England. We didn't even think to ask about the air conditioning or the insulation. We also discovered that we were in the flight path for the local air force base, which meant there were no regulations on how early – or late—planes could fly over. So we were awakened at 4 AM every morning by a fighter jet coming in for a landing at the air force base less than a mile away. And then when it started to rain, we discovered the leaks. Of course, the landlord hadn't disclosed any of this – and by the time we decided that we'd had enough, it was winter. That meant we found ourselves locating a new rental house and moving the contents of our home across town the week before Christmas. It wasn't our fault that the landlord failed to disclose some critical elements of the house. But it was our fault that we chose to ignore the warning signs until it was a desperate situation. We should have acted much more quickly and dealt with it earlier. But we didn’t want to admit there was a problem, or that we'd made a bad decision. This is something that we all face. We want to ignore the warning signs because we don't want to face up to the fact that we might have to make some significant changes. But ignoring warning signs doesn't make them go away. I recently read an essay by the mother of one of the boys involved in the Columbine school shooting. She says she didn't pick up on many of the signs that her son was in trouble – his moodiness, his secretiveness. She did notice, but she didn't want to admit that there might be a problem. But when we ignore warning signs with our kids, our spouses, or even our own bodies, thinking we might be able to get them later when we have more time, or that the problem will just go away, we do so at our peril. We can make some really dangerous decisions by choosing to ignore things.

T is for "Talking instead of acting."
Oh my goodness, this has got to be my pet peeve! People often ask me how I get so much done. I usually give them some silly answer like, "Oh, I don't take a shower," or "my house is a mess," or, "I feed my kids Kentucky Fried Chicken every night." But that's not true – I do take pride in personal hygiene! Our house is actually pretty clean, and we have not had KFC in over a year. So my real secret is that I take action. I don't just think about things – I do them. It could be an idea for a new business, or thinking I should write a thank you note. I don't just mull it over and set it aside for later – I go do something immediately, or I'll schedule a time to do something later. I try not to waste time thinking over and over, "I really need to call so and so about a playdate," or, "I've got to file that paperwork for Callie to start kindergarten." We can spend way more time worrying about or thinking about or planning to do something than it would actually take to just DO it! So when I think of something, I make it a habit to do it and do it right away. And if I can't do it right then, I write it down in my notebook or my calendar so the idea is there for later. We all have the same 24 hours, and none of us is NOT busy. The only difference between all of us is that some of us take action and some of us just think about it. So train yourself to be an action-taker.

A is for "Aiming for perfection."
You've probably read the tagline on my site, "Life doesn't have to be perfect to be good." We can get so hung up on making everything "just so" that we don't have any time to enjoy it, or we stress ourselves (and our families) out about it! Or we don't get ANYTHING done because we can't do it all perfectly so we just give up.
I want you to redefine "perfect." Replace it with "good." Aim to create a good family, a good life. Then appreciate what you have! This is the one I battle with over and over again with myself. I have very high standards, for myself and for others. But I remind myself of the 80/20 rule… if you're not familiar with it, it basically says that 80 percent of the value from any activity comes from 20 percent of the effort. To get that last 20 percent of value, you have to invest tons of effort. Economists call this the law of diminishing returns. Think about cleaning the house. You can do a pretty good job doing a quick sweep through, getting most of the clutter and dirt and stuff out of the way, wiping off the counter tops and throwing junk out. But to really get it to the spic-and-span, eat-off-the-floor level, you'd need to invest hours on your hands and knees, scrubbing the corners, getting an old toothbrush and getting behind the sink and the faucet, and dusting the Venetian blinds one at a time. There are times when you want that level of cleanliness – or perfection. Like when your mother-in-law is coming for a visit! But most of the time, the quick-and-easy level is good enough. Did you hear what I said? ENOUGH! We need to learn to live in the place of "good enough," learning that most of the time, "enough" is GOOD ENOUGH. Then we have energy to make the things that are most important to us really magical. Or we can just take a nap. That's okay, too!

S stands for "Shoving too much in."
Have you ever been bagging your groceries at the Stop-and-Shop, with those flimsy little plastic bags? You put in two cans of corn and a bag of egg noodles, and you give it a test lift and think, "I can get some more in there!" So you add a six-pack of juice boxes and put it in your cart to take out to your car. And then when you get home and are getting it out of the car, the whole thing rips open and your cans of corn roll down the driveway and the six-pack of juice boxes explodes and you accidentally step on the bag of egg noodles and then you start swearing and yelling at the kids? Or maybe that just happens to me! The point is, you thought you could fit more in that bag that you could. It looked like there was some room, but the bag just couldn't hold it all. So you ended up with a mess on your hands. This happens to multitasking moms all the time! We think we can fit in one more obligation, or one more errand, or one more committee. Then we find ourselves perpetually late, cranky, and overcommitted. Any one thing isn't that big a deal. It isn't that the six-pack of juice boxes was too heavy, it just didn't fit with everything else. It
wasn't that stopping by the library to return the books made us late for school pick-up – it was the combination of the library with the traffic with the long lines at carpool. My solution is that when I start telling myself I can fit one more thing in, I stop. I just don't do it. I don't make that trip to the library before carpool. I don't add the juiceboxes to the grocery bag. I don't say "yes" to being on the planning committee for teachers' appreciation day at the preschool. I may end up being to pickup five minutes early, but that's much better than being five minutes late. Or having a mess in the driveway to clean up!

K stand for "Killing yourself."
The biggest mistake we make as multitasking moms is simply wringing ourselves dry. We give and give and give and do and do and do and plan and plan and plan, and before you know it, your grey roots have grown in, your rear end is permanently shaped to the bucket seat of your car, and you can't remember the last time you read a book that wasn't an assignment for one of your kids' classes. This doesn’t work. It's no fun! You have to take time and room for you, even if it's insisting that you listen to YOUR music station in the car, or that you get 15 minutes after dinner, uninterrupted, to sit and read your latest Real Simple magazine. I know, it's hard.
There are always more things to do than you could ever accomplish. But this is life, right now. It's around us. It's in this moment. It's not in our to-do list or in our planner. If you aren't enjoying life NOW, you have some adjustments to make.

!
And that brings me to the number 10. The tenth biggest mistake multitasking moms
make is Forgetting to add the ! What I mean by "!" is the excitement, the fun, the
personality – adding a little bit of you to whatever you do. I often quote the title of a book by Cheri Huber. It's called, "How You Do Anything Is How You Do Everything." While the book itself wasn't all that life-shattering, I do think
of the title all the time. It goes back to my last point – this is life, now. If I want a happy life, I need to be happy, now. If I want to be a person known for positive energy, I need to be positive in what I'm doing, right now. If I want to build a life of connection, I need to be connecting, right now. No, life is not always fun. No, life sometimes sucks. Kids get sick, jobs go away, friends go away. But we need to make up our minds what we want to stand for. Is it compassion? Fun? Giving? Whatever it is, there are a million opportunities to build it into your
everyday life. That's your "!" Add it wherever you are. Bloom where you're planted. This is the life you signed up for! Now go enjoy it.

This has been Lain Ehmann with Multitasking-Moms.

Mini Album with Pockets using one piece of 12x12 cardstock

Found this wonderful tutorial today as I was blog hopping.
So easy, thought Iwould share with everyone.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I-AAaGQwDB0&feature=player_embedded

Fall Tri-shutter card

Back Pack

I found a video on how to create the back pack!!! Here is the link: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UYjMeGj95xU
Also, here is a link to her template!! http://www.stamphappens.com/stamp_happens/instructions/

Votive candle holder

Directions:

(1) piece of 8.5 x 11 cardstock

(4) pieces of cardstock that is cut 2.5 x 4. use these as frames

(4) pieces of 1.75 x 3.25 stamped vellum .

To make the card fold the 8.5 x 11 cardstock in half lengthwise.

Open it and fold the cardstock in half again this time crosswise.

Then while it is still in this fold, fold the left top flap back to meet the center,

turn paper over and fold right top flap back to meet the center.

Open fully and you should have 8 equal rectangles that measure 2.75 x 4.25.

Turn paper lenghtwise-

cut on center fold line from 1st crosswise fold line to 3rd crosswise fold line.

Cut out an opening in the center of each of the 4 center panels by measuring 5/8 inch all the way around each panel and using craft knife or your trimmer.

To prepare the 2 1/2 x 4 frames- cut out opening in the center of each measuring 0.5 inch all the way around each panel and cut with craft knife and trimmer.

Stamp vellum, I used Juniper ink and the Treasure Life (Sept. SOM)

Let dry a few minutes and then glue to the 4 frames.

I used Tombow you will not see this adhesive.

Then adhere the completed vellum frame pieces to the inside of the votive card making sure you line up the two openings.

Decorate the 4 outer flaps, I used Blooming Flourishes and paper flowers, ivory ribbon.

Fold down the flaps and adhere them together front to back.

The card folds flat, but stands up nicely on it's own.

I use a battery operated votive candle which I purchased in a pack of 2 at the $tree for safety. These do not get hot and last for about 60 hours and use a hearing aid battery which is replaceable.