blume and grow

{you} were here

2012-02-04T00:19:00.000-08:00

Week 5's digital layout holds wonderful memory's for me.....I still daydream about the lovely afternoon I spent with my Dad at Murdock Beach last Spring (you can see all the photos from that day HERE). I am still using the Photoshop Friday templates from over at Jessica Sprague, the background paper is Kitschy Digitals Watercolor Doily in Mustard, and the textured paper is also Kitschy Digitals in Wrinkled Linen. Here's the journaling:

March 28th, 2011. Murdock Beach. My Dad and I walked along the rocky beach looking for fossils. We actually ended up seeing quite a few of them without realizing it. They just looked like a rock inside a rock to us! (A favorite memory of 2011). <3 Carrie

{autumn} smiles

2012-02-01T14:38:00.000-08:00

For this week's digital layout I decided to use some of the pics I took last fall.....I was inspired by that lovely pea green color. The digital template is from the Jessica Sprague Photoshop Friday class on 1.27.12, the two papers I used are Ali Edwards For The Love Of Chevron Cream, and LiveE Designs Grassy Sky. The fonts are Angel Tears and 1942 Report. Here is the journaling:

One of my favorite things to do the beginning of each season is to enjoy a leisurely walk down quail gardens road and take photos of things that make me smile.

Autumn is a wall of ivy, streams of sunlight, and layers of yellow and green when I look up. <3 Carrie

{brothers} you & me

2012-01-25T00:00:00.000-08:00

My digital layout for week 3. It's from the view of my doggies with journaling from Gatsby:

Today Ponyo and I went for a walk at the Railroad Bridge Park with our Mamma and Aunt Lilli. Ponyo got green moss stuck to the tips of his ears from peeking through the railing. It was fun.

I used the Jessica Sprague Photoshop Friday template from 1.20.12, added in the LiveE Designs Floral Dream paper for the background, and used some paint splatter brushes to make the journaling pop. The font is Capture It. <3 Carrie

{jungle} bells

2012-01-22T16:54:00.000-08:00

Today Ryan and I are hanging out at home, watching football.....and I am playing catch-up with my digital layouts. I used the Jessica Sprague Photoshop Friday template from 1.13.12 for the layout above. It's a wonderful memory of an evening with Nely at the San Diego Zoo for their Jungle Bells (using a blurry pic I took of Nely walking in front of the camera). The background paper is Ali Edwards For The Love Of Chevron Light Purple, and the textured white paper is Liv E Designs Sun Fun Sidewalk Chalk. The font is Bebas. Here's the journaling:

Jungle Bells with Nely tonight! The lights and ambiance were magical.....

It was an exciting night.....at one point a lion was pounced on by a lioness, crashing in the fence in front of us making our hearts race!!!

Nely also giggled while telling me about some of her favorite animals. Pegasus. Unicorns. Octopus. Hippos <3

Till next time! Enjoy your week ;D Carrie

{pink} boots

2012-01-11T13:37:00.000-08:00

Today I took the time to look at some of the photos I shot back in December.....and when I came across this pic a huge smile came across my face. Such a simple photo of my niece (who is too precious for words), but I LOVE it! I hope if makes you smile today too : ) <3 Carrie

hello 2012

2012-01-06T23:05:00.000-08:00

(Digital template from Jessica Sprague's Photoshop Friday on 1/6/12.)

Well, December flew by faster than any other month last year with so many fun and exciting things to do I didn't even end up having any timeto blog. There were lots of play dates with my girlfriends, holiday shenanigans with Ryan, an early Christmas dinner with Ryan's family, my sister Amber flew down and then we all went on a road trip to be with my family in Washington for Christmas (doggies and all).....and I have to say that havingmy whole family together was more wonderful than I could have ever imagined! I didn't take a lot of photos in December, but will share thefew I took as I go back and edit them.

Ryan and I arrived home to California a couple days ago and since then I have been contemplating my plans for the year, as I'm sure alot of you are doing as well. What will my *one little word* be? I have a list of possibilities.....words that I think abouton a daily basis, but haven't been able to decide on one to signify my goal for this year. What do I want to look forward to on a regular basis? Last year I put together a 2011 album where I documented all the little things that made my life and each day a littlesweeter....it made blogging fun and more interactive in a crafty way and I loved it (plus it helped me appreciate the beauty of my life with Ryan)! How have I grown from last year, and what has changed in my life for the better and worse? When I married Ryan 16 years ago, I had no idea that I would still be so in love with him now. What can I do to be a better wife, while still being me?

The answers to these questions seem to come to me when I least expect them. I'll be driving in the car talking to Ryan about something not realizing it is even related a question I have been contemplating until it hits me like a brick wall. Then the connection is made, and it seems so simple, so natural.....like breathing. And so far I've decided on the following:

I want to focus on our home. Organizing, simplifying, purging, packing (we'll be moving in a few months). I'm not the most domestic person, but when I work on making my surroundings more comforting to the soul and pleasing to the eye, I tend to cook, clean, and smile more.....plus I know Ryan's appreciates it (except for today when I threw out some expired cooking spices he needed to make dinner.Oops :)
I want to focus on editing, printing, and scrapbooking photos/memories from the last few years that I think about on a regular basis, buthave not made the time for yet. You see, the truth is I'm lonely at home all day by myself. When I work on editing and scrapbooking photos of my family it gives me lots of joy, so I've decided to do this for myself.
I want to be brave enough to not let my health overwhelm me. To believe that it's OK when I'm in the middle of something I can't finish.
I want to have enough heart to do better at accepting good people for who they are and showing them lots of love.
I want to complete one digital layout a week for the entire year that symbolizes something current and dear to me. Right now, my plan is touse the templates from Jessica Sprague's Photoshop Fridays. Simple and fun. Perfect.
I want to make more time for my commissioned crafts at home. Little bits at a time instead of big chunks all at once this year.

And that's about it for now. I'll be back with a post once I've decided on my *one little word*, and I also have some fun photos ready to share from a walk with one of my little sister's in Washington. I won't be blogging as much as last year, but at least once a week if not more. Till next time. <3 Carrie

{december} first

2011-12-02T13:00:00.001-08:00

December first was all about wrapping presents for me. First, I woke up early and went over to a friends house for a few hours to help her wrap her presents, and then I came home and wrapped some for my friends : )

Today I was thankful for lunch with Ryan at Philly Franks, and pretty felt packaging I designed for holding my family's gifts (will share a photo of that another day). And here's the only photo I took, of some of the gifts before I wrapped them up with love for my friends.....handmade pouches by Little Octopie, scented pens, and journaling cards for scrapbooking. <3 Carrie

{favorite} holiday gifts

2011-12-01T16:38:00.001-08:00

Since I haven't blogged in a while and it's December 1st, today I thought it would be fun to share some of my favorite gifts.....stuff I've been purchasing to give and stuff that I have been just daydreaming about.....

Stuff Kara Made (I can totally imagine snuggeling up in this big sweater and drinking a hot cup of tea by the fire in my Mom's living room : )
Pink Ninja Kits (I have purchased quite a few of these to give as gifts this year.....looking forward to creating pretty paper art with my family in Washington over Christmas)
Doodle Smash Journal (Bought one of these for a friend, and have my eye on this Doodle one for myself ; )
Inspire Lovely (You can never have too much lovely craft goodies.....I bought some of these to go with the Smash Journal gift)
Red Velvet (Daydreaming about all the beautiful bows in their shop right now.....I think one would make Christmas extra special this year!)

And if I had a fortune to spend, I would give online classes to all my friends and family who are receiving Scrapbook kits this year! The Inspire Lovely Class and Classes by Kara are some of my personal favorties that I own. Have fun with your Christmas shopping!!! <3 Carrie

{cinnamon & spice} at the movies

2011-11-21T23:37:00.001-08:00

Last Friday I met Stephanie at the movies to go see Breaking Dawn. She was kind enough to take some photos of the warm spice colors I was wearing.....

I had just bought the jeans and poncho, and was excited to get a chance to wear them out. Ryan calls the ensemble my *Luke Skywalker on Tatooine* outfit : ) Stephanie showed up wearing the cutest knee high socks with her heels, jeans, a tee shirt and comfy sweater. We hung out and walked around while waiting till it was time to head into the theater.....

In the end, Steph didn't make it into the theater due to the stomach flu, but we agreed to still see it together.....so now I have another movie date with this pretty lady. Needless to say I went into the movie worried about her, and left it relieved she arrived home OK, my head swimming with happy thoughts from what I had just seen on the big screen. (photos of me by Stephanie, photoshop actions by me) <3 Carrie

{week in the life} tuesday

2011-11-20T23:37:00.000-08:00

I decided to get my butt in gear with editing more of my Week In The Life photos before Thanksgiving arrives, so here's my Tuesday, October 18th : )

One of my favorite Halloween snacks is candy corn mixed with honey roasted peanuts! And I thought that today would be the perfect day to capture some of the Halloween ambiance that adds a bit of happy to my days at home. At one point I decided to relax and watch a movie. Creature From The Black Lagoon is one of my favorite black and white monster series!!! I love all three movies!

I had just planted my mums the day before and took some photos of their cheerful color.....

Ponyo and I played in the backyard, and Gatsby stopped by for a visit. Here's Ponyo giving him some love.....

For lunch I made seasoned tater tot tacos with cheese eggs and fresh salsa.....

In the evening, I fed the puppies and worked on crafts while Ryan played video games.....

Not a whole lot happened today, but I think I took more photos this day than any other during the week. I also have some really great notes that I jotted down about my day.....like my favorite memory was talking music with Ryan, and I noticed how much the puppies love to play together when Ryan is hanging out with them on the floor, and that Ryan laughed from enjoying the time he shared playing X-box Live with his cousin who lives in Seattle.....cool stuff like that. I am very thankful for this chance to remember such wonderful times. <3 Carrie

coffee & crafts

2011-11-18T22:56:00.001-08:00

Today I met up with my sweet friend named April. As a belated birthday present, I designed a mini scrapbook class for us to play with at a local coffee shop. In the photo above you can see our finished product.....a December Daily that's only 2 1/2" x 3 1/2". Each day is a two page spread with a journal card on one side to write out a favorite moment or story of the day, with the other side covered with pretty Christmas paper, the day of the month and an occasional embellishment. And guess what?!? April also surprised me with this fun Christmas project.....What a fun day <3 Carrie

Your Appointment with Friday

2011-11-04T23:42:00.000-07:00

This week has flown by for me.....up to today when I tried to slown down and soak up every bit of wonderful rain from a storm that is passing over San Diego. It was our first rainfall of the season, and I loved it!

For this week's prompt, I decided to re-do another Fall prompt from last year:

Autumn Hues

I've known I wanted this to be this week's prompt for a while, but didn't decide what to photograph for it until today. As soon as I woke up to the sound of rain, I knew that the sweet raindrops daintly perched atop my mums and pumpkins would add the perfect touch for taking my colorful photos.....

Normally I would not choose such a varied combination of colors in crysanthemum or for my Autumn Hues, but for some reason this year I am really enjoying. To me it seems very happy : ) What are your favorite Autumn Hues this year?

Love, Carrie

{guest} post

2011-11-02T14:32:00.000-07:00

Pop on over to *all things chula* to see what I'm wearing in this fun guest post today! <3 Carrie

{halloween} cards

2011-10-30T00:34:00.000-07:00

Since tomorrow's Halloween, I thought it would be fun to share some Halloween cards with you today!!! I designed them for a private class I taught last week.....

We had a lovely afternoon assembling multiples of these cards totaling up to about 20, I think. I don't have pics of it, but inside each of the cards has a little Halloween flare too! The product came from the sweet lady who commissioned me to design and teach the class.....and it was so much fun going to her bins of Halloween goodies to find these little treasures. Now I am jonesing to make my Christmas cards even more : ) Enjoy the rest of your holiday weekend!!! <3 Carrie

murdock beach

2011-10-29T01:37:00.000-07:00

Tonight I took some time to edit photos from a wonderful day trip with my Dad this past Spring. I was visiting my family in Washington, and our trip to Murdock Beach is one of my favorite memories!

There's no sign or even street name for the turn off to this beach, so finding it was a little tricky.....but we did it! And once parked, we walked over the cutest bridge and through a forest filled with bare trees covered in moss. The ground was covered in leaves, moss and all sorts of greenery, and as we walked towards where the trees opened up to the ocean, the sun streamed through some of the trees casting the coolest glow.....

The weather was perfect. Overcast, then sunny, then a bit of sprinkling just before we left. Here's the view from the forest looking across the ocean.....you can see Canada in the distance since the sun had come out for this shot.....

Once we reached the rocky beach my Dad and I walked along the water looking for fossils. This beach supposedly has more fossils than any other in this area. We ended up seeing quite a few of them withough really realizing it (hense no specific photo of them).....they looked like a rock inside a rock to us, LOL!

My bootprint in the sand.....

My my Dad took this photo of me. We had so much fun!!! I love this place! <3 Carrie

{today}

2011-10-28T16:24:00.000-07:00

Today has been a day for reflection. I woke up a little early. Did the first bit of Tai Chi in a while (which I have to admit, made me feel better later rather than sooner....I was a bit shaky). Practising Tai Chi helps me feel balanced. Both physically and emotionally.....which is desperately needed right now because I miss my family so much lately it hurts.....and feeling like this throws everything off. So today I decided was going to be different. Not necessarily better, but a day for positive change.

I'm waiting for the shakiness to wear off before I start my Friday cleaning routine and in the mean time chose to make my heart smile a bit, so I'm editing photos from this past Spring that make me happy : )

These paint splatter pics are from a sunny Springtime afternoon, and the first step in the process of designing THESE invitations. The little girl the invites were for, had picked out the paint colors and helped with the splatter out on her front lawn.....

And now here I am typing up this blog post, and daydreaming about plans, and goals for the rest of this year leading into next with my partner in crime, my Ryan. In the past couple years my personal goals and plans have always been a let down because of my health getting in the way. Today, my head is spinning from new hopes and dreams and things seem clear. It feels like I've learned a lot about what I'm capable of right now, and I hope to only become stronger with who I've become. So, for now I little therapeutic photo editing.....and in a bit I'll write out my new goals, clean the house, and make some homemade limeade from limes given to me by a dear friend. Enjoy your weekend! <3 Carrie

Your Appointment with Friday

2011-10-28T00:28:00.000-07:00

Happy almost Halloween to you! For this week's photo prompt I decided that it was finally time for.....

It's Tradition

Gloria and I enjoyed this photo prompt around the same time last year, and I thought it would be nice excuse to share another Fall tradition this October too! In general I am not a traditional kind of girl, but there's something about Autumn that draws me towards loving some of the same activities. Last year I shared my chrysanthemum planting tradition. This year I am sharing the annual *Ponyo with pumpkins photo*!!! You can see last year's photo HERE (and little Ponyo was only 13 weeks in that pic.....so sweet!). Do you have any traditions during the Fall?

Love, Carrie

Your Appointment with Friday

2011-10-21T22:02:00.000-07:00

Happy Friday everyone! This weeks photo prompt is to.....

Take a photo with a pumpkin

For this prompt you can use your tripod, have someone else take the photo, or whatever else you think sounds nice.....like the photo I took of Ryan and my feet with our pumpkin choices in between : )

Ryan was sweet enough to happily take these photos of me while we were at the pumpkin patch by our house a couple evenings ago. And he even let me take a couple pics of him with the green pumpkin (which I'll share on my Blume and Grow blog in a few days). The ambiance was pretty cool since it was starting to get dark in this place filled with all these bright orange pumpkins, hanging lights, and the typical kiddie rides.

Enjoy your pumpkin time this week!

Love, Carrie

{30 day mini} days 13,14,15

2011-10-20T00:01:00.000-07:00

I am so happy that I'm finally half way through this mini!.....which is perfect because I'm starting to get excited about making the minibook for my Week In The Life!!! Yes, right now I am a minibook making machine! I rarely take the time to make things for myself, so all these lovely Fall projects have been a real joy : ) For today's pages.....day 13, from a distance, I used a photo I took of me and my truck (taken with a timer and tripod). Flowers, was day 12 which was actually perfect because I had just received these African violets from sweet Nely! And my shoes was day 13, hence the photo of my brown boots. On this page, I was thrilled for a chance to finally use the airmail journal sheet I had created. More soon. <3 Carrie

{week in the life} monday

2011-10-18T03:14:00.000-07:00

Welcome to day one of my *week in the life*. Here's a little bit about my Monday in photos, in no particular order.

I checked Twitter and Bloglovin on my phone while laying in bed. Watered the plants.

Relaxed while drinking the most delicious maple tea with caramel creamer, and enjoyed the company of my curious little puppy who wants to be a part of everything I do.

It stayed foggy on the coast all day. It was beautiful and I LOVED it!

A patch of sun streamed trough a little further inland while I was at Home Depot hunting for mums.

I also left with a little Spanish moss, and a few more mums than I originally planned. There were so many lovely colors, I had a hard time choosing.

Home and ready for potting.

Made tacos for dinner, and stopped at this farmers market for the best salsa.

Went grocery shopping in the evening.

And that's pretty much my Monday! Tomorrow I have to remember to get a couple pics of Ryan, and I want to use my Instax too!!! See ya. <3 Carrie

{30 day mini} days 10,11,12

2011-10-18T00:01:00.000-07:00

I've been working away at trying to get this minibook finished up.....so today I thought I'd share a few more pages. Day 10 was something I made, so there's a photo of some ice tea with an extra pic tucked away in it's pocket. I ended up scrapbooking with Ally*cakes for something fun on day 11. Day 12, close up, has a photo of Ponyo's sweet puppy whiskers. He is such a cutie pie.....and now I'm a little more than a 1/3 of the way done! Yay! More to come.... <3 Carrie

{30 day mini} days 7,8,9

2011-10-16T00:01:00.000-07:00

So here are pages 7,8, and 9 in my 30 day photo challenge minibook. Day 7, something new, was a photo of my laptop *maple*. Technology was day 8, when San Diego lost power, plus a photo of my camera Clem. And Day 9 was faceless self portrait, with a few extra shots tucked away in the journaling pocket. I love the mixture of yellow, orange, pink and brown in this spread.....some of my favorite Fall colors right now! And speaking of Fall, tomorrow I'm starting my Week In The Life! Ali Edwards did her week this past summer, but I decided to wait till now.....so check back daily for my photos (either starting Monday night or Tuesday morning ; ) <3 Carrie

{project} saturday

2011-10-15T18:45:00.000-07:00

I have a chunky minibook up over at Bubblegum Life today! Hope you enjoy!!! <3 Carrie

Quail Gardens Mini

2011-10-15T18:25:00.000-07:00

As a little treat to ourselves, Nely and I each created minibooks using our Quail Botanical Gardens / *Explore Nature* photos! You can click on the collage that shows each of my minibook pages to see them larger in Flickr. The design was pretty much the same for each section. The first photo has paint splatter, and Thickers/alpha sticker text for a title. Then there is a piece of Hambly with two 4x6 pages back to back, with the next page decorated with sewn paper strips and an embellishment. There also is an occasional 5x7 photo page with back to back photos thrown in. The last page is an envelope filled with a few extra 4x6 photos, and an instax. Fitting so many photos into this album was a little tricky, but the whole process was really fun!!!

I'll be back on Friday with a new photo prompt for the weekend.....until then, I hope you enjoy these lovely Fall days!

Love, Carrie

{halloween} treat bags

2011-10-13T23:37:00.000-07:00

This week I have been super busy making lots of crafts! One of the many projects that have been taking up so much of my time are these cute treat bags a friend of asked me to decorate for her daughter. And this weekend I get to design some fun Halloween cards and make some tags for more treat bags.....and then work on more Halloween cards. That being said, I have been getting better at making time for myself, so today I spent the day purging my storage bins, cleaning and putting up my Fall decorations, and tomorrow I get to hang out with Nely for a few hours so we can work on more of our 30 day photo challenge mini books!!! So, I'll have more photos of that to share soon. Have a wonderful Friday! <3 Carrie

{30 day mini} days 4,5,6

2011-10-11T00:01:00.000-07:00

(You can click on the above images to view them larger in Flickr.)

So here are days 4,5, and 6 in my 30 day photo challenge minibook! Putting this little treasure together is a blast.....I followed the same design as days 1,2, and 3, and am really liking the way it all flows together so far. More soon. <3 Carrie

Birthday Photoshoot

2011-10-10T01:31:00.000-07:00

As promised, here are more of the photos from my birthday photoshoot with Nely.....

(These photos of me were taken by Nely, all other taken by moi. All photoshop actions by me.)

Stay tuned for my Project Monday using almost all of the photos from this shoot! Have a wonderful week.....

Love, Carrie

{fall} wreath

2011-10-10T00:50:00.000-07:00

Inspired by Stephanie's beautiful Autumn wreath, I decided to make my own this weekend!.....the first of my Fall decorations to add a bit of seasonal color to my home.

To make these yarn wreaths, all I do is wrap yarn tightly around a styrofoam form. I like to secure each section of yarn with small pins in the back. When I make these for others I have always made them more decorative, but I personally like a more simplistic look most of the time, so to finish this one off, all I did was add the pink and yellow striped ribbon and an orange butterfly. It feels great to make one of these for myself.....finally. <3 Carrie

Your Appointment with Friday

2011-10-07T12:40:00.000-07:00

This week's photo prompt was super fun to shoot and perfect lighting from the cool overcast day.....just like I imagine a tropical Fall would feel! The prompt is to:

Explore Nature

(Photos of me taken by Nely)

For this prompt, sweet Nely and I visited the Quail Botanical Gardens! It is walking distance from my house, and a lovey place for exploring and snapping photos. My favorite sections were the tropical rainforest's and a whole field filled with all different types of bamboo forests. So beautiful!!! I have a few more photos to share AND a giant minibook for my Project Monday, so make sure to check back for more fun.

Love, Carrie

{farmgirl} blackout

2011-10-07T11:30:00.000-07:00

Welcome to my first official *what i wore* post! I'm not a big fashion person, but do try and dress cute most days.....so I figured why not share a bit of my half farmgirl / half san diego style : ) Back when I lived in Washington I use to wear a LOT of black, so I feel very at home in this outfit. Plus it's just the right amount of warm and cool for the weather here right now. Stephanie was kind enough to take these pics for me while we were hanging out yesterday. We got a bunch of scrapbooking done, and ate yummy yummy sushi....hmmmmm....and bonus! she gave me am amazing painted canvas that she made especially for my birthday! It's really beautiful!!! I'll take a pic with it soon to share. I was able to get more of my 30 Day Mini done too, so stay tuned for that as well. <3 Carrie

{30 day mini} days 1,2,3

2011-10-05T17:25:00.000-07:00

(You can click on the skinny images to view them larger in flickr)

So sweet Nely and I decided to make mini books to hold our 30 day photo challenge pics. Here are days 1,2, and 3 of my book. Sorry for the blurry dark photos, I picked the darkest rainiest day to take them...lol! As you can see, I haven't filled out the journaling cards yet, but plan to do that last once my book is complete....I'll just choose text from my daily posts for that. The layout is pretty much the same for every spread (every 3 days). It goes paper, paint splatter, photo, journal envelope, thickers (spelling the daily prompt), and sewing, for the left page. The middle 6x6 page is just paper, photo, sewing, and a tab. The back of the middle 6x6 is paint splatter, thickers, sewing, an embellishment, and the back side of the tab with the date. Next Hambly, and then the right page is the same design as the left. A nice simple minibook that I should be able to work on bits at a time. I'll post my progress as I go here, and I know Nely will post hers once she starts too. Tomorrow I'll be working on more of it with dear Stephanie, so I will be able to share more soon. <3 Carrie

{goodbye september} hello october

2011-10-01T00:02:00.000-07:00

Goodbye waking up every day and looking forward to taking my photo of the day for the 30 day photo challenge. Hello minibook filled with all my wonderful memories of September. Goodbye to obsessively listening to Devo's album *Something For Everybody*, and hello my new obsession the *Hanna Soundtrack*. Hello to still enjoying tons of fresh pink grapefruit everyday. Goodbye warm weather, and hello to cooler days and walks outside. Goodbye to bare legs and hello tights with my dresses. Hello to my Fall boots and goodbye my Summer slip-ons. Goodbye to homemade ice tea and hello salted caramel hot chocolate and hot maple tea with caramel cream. Hello Fall scented candles, new twinkle lights, and freshly potted mums. Hello pumpkins and goodbye summer colors. Goodbye September, hello October. <3 Carrie

{day 30} in motion

2011-09-30T23:46:00.000-07:00

(You can click on the above images to view them larger in Flickr.)

Today I am sad that it's the last day of the 30 day photo challenge. Taking these daily photos has definitely made my September more fun then I thought it was going to be. One of the reason's is that I am creating a minibook with all 30 of my photos! I only have 9 pages done so far, but there is one for each day, so at least I'm a 1/3 of the way done : ) Will share a few of the pages as soon as I figure out how I am going to photograph them. This project has also done a great job of documenting my life, my likes and what I have been up to this month. My taste for things is constantly changing, so it will be kind of cool to see how different things are in October. Anyways, for today's final *in motion* photo, the easiest thing that came to mind was the above photo(s).....Ponyo chasing a ball in the backyard. He loves to run, and jumps around like a kangaroo when he's excited! It's really cute. Thanks for stopping by today! Happy October 1st tomorrow!!! <3 Carrie

Your Appointment with Friday

2011-09-30T17:18:00.000-07:00

Happy last day of September! This week's photo prompt feels a bit darker and a little vintage.....perfect for the season changing into Fall. The prompt is:

Black & White

I took these photos at the Del Mar Racetrack. Ryan, a friend, and I spent the early evening (a few weeks ago) soaking up the glow of the setting sun while placing crazy fun bets, cheering on our horses, enjoying a beer and popcorn snack (no beer for me of course), and walking from our seats to the paddock to look at all these lovely beauties in between races.....

It was exciting and fun, made even more enjoyable by our surroundings.....the beautiful racetrack grounds. And I am so in love with color that I had to slip in a few color photos! However I originally was inspired to take black and white photos here by all the beautiful vintage B&W prints that decorates the walls of this building.....

And to top it all off, Devo played after the races (no photos of them, sorry)! Ryan and I enjoyed their show so much he bought their newest album, witch I absolutely LOVE!!!

Enjoy your black & white photo taking this week! I hope you find it as inspiring as I did : )

Love, Carrie

{xoxo} a freebie

2011-09-29T15:19:00.000-07:00

There is a gift for my lovely blog readers over at Bubblegum Life today <3

An Autumn Gift For You | New Desktop Wallpaper

2011-09-29T15:14:00.000-07:00

After taking this photo over the weekend, I ended up making it into my desktop wallpaper and thought it would be nice to share as a freebie for you to enjoy too. xoxo

Download Options:

{day 29} purchased

2011-09-29T12:51:00.000-07:00

My favorite purchases from this month! Candles from Bath & Body Works in the following scents:

Autumn
Creamy Pumpkin
Marshmallow Fireside

I am going to have a hard time deciding which one to buy in a larger size.....they all smell amazing : )

And then there's my *Hanna* DVD and CD. The CD is a score by the Chemical Brothers that I find very energetic and melodic. Perfect for running errands around town or waking up to in the morning. The DVD is beautiful to watch, has lots of exciting action, and is shot in the coolest locations. I did a post about seeing it in the theater HERE. <3 Carrie

P.S. Apparently I skipped yesterday's *daily routine* prompt.....not sure if I am going to end up taking it or not. We'll see I guess ; )

{day 27} after dark

2011-09-28T21:48:00.000-07:00

Ryan helped me with last night's *after dark* photos! He drew the pretty pumpkin and word SEPT. for me with a flashlight while I held open the shutter. I have no idea how he lines everything up in the dark.....it's nice to have an excuse to be outside on these cooler Fall evenings. <3 Carrie

The First Day of Fall

2011-09-28T01:41:00.000-07:00

The first day of Fall ended up being a lovely day, filled with fun, excitement, creativity, lots of color, good food and drink.....I could go on and on. Nely and I spent most of the daylight hours scrapbooking (working on a minibook that I will share here soon ; ), under a big blue sky filled with puffy white clouds. At one point, even though the clouds looked the way they do in my photo above, HUGE raindrops fell onto our scrapbook supplies adding a bit of extra character to our projects! It was really fun!!! We stamped, and cut, and sewed, and glued, and painted, and typed our little hearts out! Happy Fall everyone!

Love, Carrie

{day 26} something old

2011-09-27T13:54:00.000-07:00

For my *something old* photo the item above was the first thing that came to mind. It was my Grandma's tea set from when she was a girl. I have a slip of paper with her handwriting that says she had received it as a gift when she was around 10 years old (1931). I am so lucky that she chose me to leave it to, her oldest female grandchild. One day I will display it on a shelf, and maybe even get to play tea with my niece. I think some hot maple tea with caramel creamer would be perfect for Fall. <3 Carrie

{day 25} sunflare

2011-09-27T13:15:00.000-07:00

Well, I'm back after a short break and ready to share my day 25 photos of *sunflare*. I took these pics while out for a walk on Sunday, wanting to capture a bit of Fall through my camera lens. I think I'm going to make that bottom photo into my desktop wallpaper.....I just love all the different colors! There aren't many signs of the changing season here, so little bits like this are warmly welcomed. <3 Carrie

{day 24} a smile

2011-09-24T21:40:00.000-07:00

Today was a really good day, so my smile here is truly genuine (taken by yours truly at sunset). I spent the entire day with Ryan. We went to the movies, ran errands together after, chatted, talked about how he is currently obsessed with Camera Obscura and The Decemberist, how I can't wait for the Drive soundtrack to come available on CD, laughed out loud at each other's jokes while walking through Target, bought a new loofah, had soup for dinner, and now we're relaxing on the couch watching a DVD of the Pixies. Simple and perfect. <3 Carrie

{day 23} sunset

2011-09-23T23:59:00.000-07:00

There wasn't much of a sunset tonight on account of it being overcast, but you can see what little light there was shining through at the horizon line. Today was so cool though. The sky was blue with beautiful clouds that were white and glowing around the edges with dark gray the rest of the way through. I was scrapbooking outside most of the daytime with Nely, and huge raindrops fell sporadically adding bits of extra character to our paper crafting. It was fun. I took a few photos of what it looked like and you will be able to see them over at Bubblegum Life soon. A great first day of Fall! <3 Carrie

{day 22} trees

2011-09-22T23:59:00.000-07:00

So, today's all about trees.....and I'm pleased to introduce you to the giant eucalyptus tree next to my house. I didn't want to retake the shot that shows how big this tree really is, so go HERE to see it over at Bubblegum Life. I've been told that eucalyptus trees only live so many years, and most of the others close to this size on our property are dying so I thought photos of this beauty would be great! I want to remember how the bark peels away from the sides. How the branches seem to grow in different crazy directions that don't look balanced. I want to remember that there is a huge owl and pair of hawks that like to hang out here....the owl at night, and the hawks during the day. The bean shape of it's leaves, and all the different shades of green. And I love green. Green is my best, and I think makes this tree beautiful. <3 Carrie

Your Appointment with Friday

2011-09-21T17:04:00.000-07:00

So this week's photo prompt is up a couple days early because I am planning on taking my photo on the.....

First Day of Fall 2011

I just loved documenting the first day of summer so much so that I thought it would be fun to do it for fall too! So the prompt is to take photos of your day on Friday, September 23rd. You can take as many or as few photos as you like of course, but make sure to have fun!!!

The photo collage above is from fall of last year.....I had taken a walk on the first day of fall and ended up taking photos of what I saw. Things that reminded me of this wonderful season : )

Are you getting excited?!? I am!

Love, Carrie

{day 21} pretty pattern

2011-09-21T15:42:00.000-07:00

Isn't the pattern on this dress lovely?!? The colors are a little different in each photo because one was taken in the sun and the other the shade, but you get the basic idea. I think it's perfect for fall. The colors. The hand drawn looking pattern. Beautiful. I found it at Target like 3 years ago and tend to mostly wear it during this time of year.....and this year I have been pairing it was magenta tights and by brown boots. Fun! <3 Carrie

about

2011-09-21T01:53:00.000-07:00

(Photo taken by Nely on my birthday, and photoshop actions by moi.)

Hey beautiful people! I just wanted to pop in and let you know that I have a new *about me* page up and running : ) You can either click on the word *about* in the navigation bar, or HERE. And if you have any questions please feel free to shoot me an email. Enjoy! <3 Carrie

{day 20} what i read

2011-09-20T19:06:00.000-07:00

This art book is amazing! I recently purchased it at Barnes & Noble and have been soaking up every lovely page!!! Mixed media doesn't come very naturally to me, and this book is just what I've been looking for with it's step by step instructions. I'm also a very visual learner so all the pictures help a bunch too! I have plans for a project in October and this style of art will be the perfect inspiration. <3 Carrie

{day 19} where i slept

2011-09-20T18:39:00.000-07:00

So today I'm playing catch up since I forgot to take yesterdays *where i slept* photo.....and this is where we sleep. It's actually our futon in the living room. We turn it into a bed a night, and even though we have a guest bedroom we prefer this. I just love the light streaming through in the morning/afternoon! Ryan and I both sleep with two pillows. One queen and one king. I have two satin pillowcases on mine.....a purple and a silver. Ryan has a silver satin and black and white checker cotton. At night we fall asleep with pink twinkle lights on. It's VERY relaxing. What's it like where you sleep? (Today's photo post will be up tonight.) <3 Carrie

the sweet escape

2011-09-19T23:49:00.000-07:00

Well, today I was a dork and forgot to take my 30 day photo challenge pic for the day.....so instead I thought it would be the perfect time to share Nely's new *Sweet Escape* blog! Nely and I spent an entire day driving around San Diego shooting photos to use as the graphics for her new blog design.....it was a blast!!! Plus she has a really fun scrapbooking post up! I think you should go take a look.....there's lots of eye candy ; ) Enjoy! <3 Carrie

P.S. If you're interested in a new blog design or some new graphics, shoot me an email.....I loooovvee spending time with Maple!

{day 18} in my bag

2011-09-18T15:15:00.000-07:00

I've never done one of these *in my bag* posts before, so today's kinda fun : ) Here's is what's in my bag right now (minus the receipts).....

My non-planner datebook (right now I'm using it to track the 30 day photo prompts)
A strawberry scented pen (that reminds me of the Strawberry Shortcake doll I had when I was a girl....when you squeezed her belly strawberry scent came out of her mouth)
A little fabric owl pouch that holds my change and extra Keys
Green wallet
Blackberry
Rice paper
Neutrogena chap stick
A tin that holds some of the supplements I take (like fish oil and vitamin D)
Goody pick (cuz I don't like tangled hair)
Keys
And last my Alice In Wonderland bag that I bought at Disneyland years ago and still love!

Usually my camera is in my bag too, but I used it to take this photo. Happy Sunday! <3 Carrie

{day 17} on the shelf

2011-09-17T23:25:00.000-07:00

Some of the goodies in my craft space. I like to have them out so I can see and remember they're there.....plus they are pretty to look at (even though dusting them is a pain ; ). I keep baker's twine and clothes pins in the gray swans, the yarn I use for my wreathes, and the spray paint and fabric are both for scrapbooking and various crafts. I also have a shelf (now shown) that is just different punches stored in metal bins. I find that I use these specific items more by having them out *on the shelf* to add to my crafting fun! I have been editing photos almost all day and into the night today, and have scrapbooking planned for tomorrow. I love the weekends!!! Have a beautiful day. <3 Carrie

{day 16} what i ate

2011-09-16T23:31:00.000-07:00

For lunch today:

4 deviled eggs
baked ruffles potato chips
lots of pink grapefruit

And this really is a typical lunch for me.....except usually I eat nuts too (but I'm all out right now). This, and a big glass of ice tea (because it's still not quite warm enough for warm drinks here yet). Keeping my fingers crossed, though ; ) What's a typical lunch for you like? <3 Carrie

Your Appointment with Friday

2011-09-16T13:32:00.000-07:00

Hello lovely people and happy Friday to you! This week's photo prompt is to.....

Go to a coffee shop(and take photos of what you see).

Hmmmm.....I think I will always love amaretto cappuccinos! They are the BEST during cool weather!!!

The Pannikin is one of our favorite outdoor coffee shops. The atmosphere is light and happy. The building looks like a two story beach house washed with light yellow paint. The second story balcony (where we usually sit) get a wonderful breeze and feels very open. Honestly, I don't make time to go to coffee shops like I use to, but when I do it is a real treat.....and today was no exception. Ryan and I had a wonderful time.

I know I'm a bit behind on my Project Monday's but hope to get caught up some time next week. This month has been busy and LOTS of fun so far! Have the best day today!!!

Love, Carrie

{day 15} my shoes

2011-09-15T23:26:00.000-07:00

Today's photo prompt was to take a photo of *my shoes*. Ahhhh....boots are probably my favorite kind of shoe. I just love the soft leather, mostly waterproof, comfortable for being on your feet all day durability. And these are one of my favorite pair of boots.....I think they're pretty : ) I can't wait to wear more of my dress, tights, boots combos. Yay for Fall! <3 Carrie

{day 14} flowers

2011-09-14T23:54:00.000-07:00

These pretty little African violets were a birthday present from the lovely Nely.....and I just LOVE them : ) Right now they are sitting on my kitchen windowsill cheering the place up with their pale magenta color. Potting flowers is one of my fall traditions, so this sweet bundle of joy is the perfect start! I love that they bloom all year round. So pretty. <3 Carrie

{day 13} from a distance

2011-09-13T22:40:00.000-07:00

At first I had a hard time figuring out what to shoot for today's *from a distance* photo prompt. But then I remembered I've never taken a photo of my truck before, so this pic ended up being kinda special for me. I think she's pretty, and makes my driving around town super comfy. To get this shot, I set Clem up on a ladder so I could use the tree leaves for natural framing.....and then to get myself in the photo I sprinted over to my truck just in time. Interactive and fun. Done. <3 Carrie

P.S. Today I have a guest post up on My Creative Brightside! It's the skeleton of a Week In The Life book I handmade as a gift : )

{day 12} close-up

2011-09-12T23:52:00.000-07:00

Here is our sweet puppy Ponyo. I have been waiting for a prompt that was right for capturing this cutie, and thought today's *close-up* photo prompt might be perfect. He has the cutest little whiskers and makes the silliest lovey faces. Ryan and I sure love this little guy. <3 Carrie

{day 11} something fun

2011-09-11T22:53:00.000-07:00

With today being the 10 year anniversary of 9/11, it was really nice to take some time to enjoy one of the things that helps make me feel strong.....the company of a sweet friend. I was lucky enough to spend a few hours this afternoon with Ally*Cakes. We chatted and scrapbooked, listened to happy music and ate dinner out on her patio. Perfect for the *something fun* prompt for today. <3 Carrie

{day 9} faceless self portrait

2011-09-10T23:53:00.000-07:00

For yesterday's *faceless self portrait* photos I decided to have them say something specific about myself, hence the sunflower. It represents my love for bouquets. I prefer to have a fresh bouquet next to my bed, however, is just so happens that my bed is in the middle of a room so isn't not really an option for when I'm at home (it is when I travel though ; ). Usually you'll find potted flowers on my kitchen windowsill and a bouquet on my kitchen table, and I love it! If there was more light in my house I would have plants too!!! <3 Carrie

P.S. To see {day 10} something i made, go to My Creative Brightside for my guest post!

Your Appointment with Saturday

2011-09-10T23:21:00.000-07:00

For this week's photo prompt I wanted to focus on summer as it begins to come to a close. The prompt is to capture something that has become.....

A New Summer Tradition

(These photos also happen to be my day 10 *something I made* photos for the 30 day photo challenge I'm doing this month over on my personal blog, Blume & Grow. Fun!)

I have never really been a big ice tea fan, but this summer I started mixing homemade ice tea with different things like lemonade or flavored sparkling water.....and it's stuck. I love it!!! I've tried quite a few different mixtures and here are some of my favorites:

Tazo Rest (rose petals, valerian root and citrusy herbs) mixed with Simply Limeade (pictured above). This one tastes like you're drinking a flower.....it's floral and refreshing.

Tazo Refresh (mint with a pinch of tarragon) mixed with Simply Raspberry Lemonade. Mint and raspberry's are so great together, and this is no exception!

Celestial Seasonings Black Cherry Berry mixed with Simply Raspberry Lemonade. This ice tea is sweet and tart.....and so delicious.

If you're interested in the actual recipe I use, you can find it HERE on a guest post for My Creative Brightside. I use the same steps and ratios for each one, so all you have to do is replace the corresponding ingredients with ones of your choice. It's really easy, and a real treat to have at home or to throw into a travel mug for the road.

What's a new tradition that you've started this summer?

Have a wonderful day!

Love, Carrie

Project Friday

2011-09-09T13:47:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I had these photos taken and ready to go, but we lost power till early this morning, and haven't been able to post them until this afternoon. So now I am happy to finally get to share with you my project from last week's photo prompt. A new 8 1/2x11 layout.....

The Hambly transparency, fabric, and baker's twine are all from Color Me Miki : )

I did a little layering and sewing, and was excited for a chance to use these leaf pins.....

This shade of mint green is a favorite right now, and I even pulled out my typewriter to write little notes on the tags.....

I hope to be back tonight with a new photo prompt, but may not make it happen till tomorrow (I try not to stress about stuff anymore). Hooray for the weekend!

Love, Carrie

{day 8} technology

2011-09-09T13:06:00.000-07:00

Originally, I took the above photo for yesterday's *technology* photo prompt with the thought in mind that sweet Clementine deserved a spotlight in this month long project. She is very dear to me and posed nicely while also taking a photo of herself in a mirror (I used a self timer). However, late in the afternoon something unexpected happened. All of San Diego lost power. No intersection lights, no gas pumps, no groceries, no fan, no TV, no Internet. And it lasted through most of the night until the early morning hours. To keep from getting bored in our dark house solely lit with candles, I set my my tripod and decided to try and get a photo of what it felt like to be there.....

This is definitely not a traditional photo representative of technology, but since technology was lost for the night I think it still is in it's own way.....at least to me. Last night I enjoyed how peaceful and simple it was, but was also reminded of how much I do LOVE technology. <3 Carrie

{day 7} something new

2011-09-08T00:49:00.000-07:00

This is *Maple*. I named her this for two reasons. One, is because my last laptop was named Pumpkin and I knew I wanted to use another plant name, but honestly the deciding factor was that my sister, Amber told me a maple tree is also known as an acer. Kinda cool, huh?!? Maple was one of my lovely birthday presents this year, and something new I am very excited about!!! She sits on my fold out TV tray, and almost every day we have quality time together. <3 Carrie

Nely's Sweet Escape

2011-09-07T23:59:00.000-07:00

I almost forgot to share these today : ) Here are more of the photos from the shoot I did for Nely's new blog design. She wanted them to be bright and colorful.....

Nely is super easy to photography, and I just love the way she did her hair and makeup for this shoot. We had so much fun!

Tonight I am working away so I can mostly finish up next my layout using some of these pics. I hope to photograph and share it tomorrow.....so stay tuned.

Have the best day!!!

Love, Carrie

{day 6} childhood memory

2011-09-06T20:50:00.000-07:00

One of my most vivid and favorite childhood memories is eating golden raspberries. We would play outside building forts, exploring the woods, and just messing around during those wonderful summer months up in Washington. When it was time for a break, I would head over to our garden where golden raspberries grew on a wire and wood fence. The afternoon sun would warm them up so when you popped them in your mouth the sweet juice was amazing! This summer raspberries have been my favorite fruit, so I thought it would be perfect to take a photo of the ones in my fridge for today's *childhood memory* prompt. Delicious. <3 Carrie

{day 5} favorite color

2011-09-05T23:59:00.000-07:00

Today I woke up to My Sweetie covering my face with kisses and saying "Happy Birthday!". It was the best wake up EVER. Then I was lucky enough to spend the day with dear Nely. A major highlight was our walk to the Quail Botanical Gardens so we could take lots of photos with our twin cameras.....and that's where I ended up taking my pics for today's prompt. I just looovve the color green!!! I was in heaven walking around their rainforest and bamboo gardens! It was a wonderful birthday. <3 Carrie

{day 4} someone i love

2011-09-04T23:35:00.000-07:00

Today I decided to switch day 4 and day 5's photo prompts just because it made more sense for me. So, My Sweetie, Ryan is the subject of my photo for today.....he is someone I dearly love <3 Carrie

{day 3} clouds

2011-09-03T23:59:00.000-07:00

Today started out foggy with the sky completely covered in white as Ryan drove us to the Brockton Villa for brunch. Right now it's my favorite spot for a relaxing afternoon with yummy food. The atmosphere is light and beachy....and the actual restaurant is a cute white washed looking beach house right across the street from the ocean. You can see we ended up on their balcony with the best view, if you look in the reflection of Ryan's sunglasses.....

The food was wonderful, so much so I think I was actually making hmmnnn noises in-between each bite! And their Mexican mochas are divine.....perfect for sipping in the cool late morning weather we had today. Here I am enjoying my mocha....

After eating, we went for a little walk along the water, stopping every once in a while to watch the sea lions play and big waves crash against the rocks...

As we were heading back towards the car, the fog lifted allowing a bit of blue sky to peak through. Large birds were flying all around, and that's when I looked up to realize I finally had a chance at snapping my *clouds* photo prompt for today. Perfect. My day ended up being so lovely. I feel really blessed right now......and happy. <3 Carrie

{day 2} what i wore

2011-09-02T23:14:00.000-07:00

Set up my tripod and took this blurry photo for today's *what i wore* photo prompt. With the weather being so warm the last few weeks I have been wearing a lot of dresses, so it only seemed fit that a good bit of twirling was in order <3 Carrie

Your Appointment with Friday

2011-09-02T00:01:00.000-07:00

I may have chose this week's photo prompt because I'm feeling sentimental and have awesome plans with this girl on my birthday, but whatever the reason I think it helps you feel thankful. The photo prompt is to.....

Take a photo of a friend.

This pretty girl had asked me to do a new blog design for her recently and for the graphics we decided to do an urban themed photoshoot. I love how it all turned out (her blog is done but private right now) and can't wait to share!!! We had the best day traveling all over San Diego to get a variety of shots, but I think the two photos above are at my favorite locations. And now I'm excited to do a layout of her which I'll share on Monday, and then the rest of the pics from this shoot on Wednesday!

Enjoy your holiday weekend!!!

Love, Carrie

{day 1} self portrait

2011-09-01T23:46:00.000-07:00

I am excited that September has begun! My birthday is in a few days, I'm turning 33, I have this great 30 Day Photo Challenge to look forward to, many fun artsy dates with friends, coffee dates, many projects planned, new ice tea mixtures to try, lots of time with My Sweetie, the first day of Fall (which I am totally jonesing for), and I even touched up my hair last week which helped it get a bit lighter....Yay, finally! These things may be simple, and there are more important things going on in my life at the same time, but it's really nice to have them add just a bit of sparkle. I hope you find lots of sparkle this month. <3 Carrie

PRETTY PINK

2011-08-31T00:01:00.000-07:00

These are the flowers growing on our farm right now. The pink is such a nice contrast to the bright white.....

I had a big bouquet on my kitchen table for a while and they smelled amazing! After these I bought some pale pink tulips (that reminded me of the country), and now I have yellow and burgundy sunflowers (that remind me of fall). Sigh.....I find flowers so cheerful as of late. I even found a pretty copper vase for $3 so I could have a flower to brighten up my craft table. Love it. What type of flower do you think I should get next? <3 Carrie

SPORTING A SIDEBUN

2011-08-30T15:32:00.000-07:00

The beginning of August, I started adding this little hairdo into my weekly mixture. I came across it accidentally while I was trying to do a side braid (which I still can't seem to figure out), and have been loving it ever since! It's super fast and easy and stays all day. Perfect.

The thing is, I only wash my hair every other day.....BUT I have very oily hair, so the day I wash it I enjoy wearing it down (and love that it is getting so long) and the second day I like to put it up. So, it's nice to have a little variety with my up-dos. Any suggestions?

Also, as a side note, my dear friend Nely and I have decided to join along in the 30 day photo challenge on Oh So Lovely. Nely told me about it last night, and we are starting on September 1st! And honestly I am excited to have this to look forward to. Interested? <3 Carrie

A PRESENT

2011-08-29T23:38:00.000-07:00

For Allycakes! This beautiful girl had a birthday in August, so I spray painted a t-rex pink, added a colorful floral rub-on, and gave it to her as a gift. I though a little pink dinosaur would be a nice companion for her craft desk. Earlier this month, I made one a bit different for myself HERE, and then a layout with a photo of it HERE (if you haven't already seem them). Apparently dinosaurs are my thing right now : )

Oh, and sorry for the cricket's.....I was having computer problems, but now I have a new Pumpkin so we're good. Have an excellent week! <3 Carrie

Project Monday

2011-08-29T15:56:00.000-07:00

Sorry for the crickets : ) I was having technical diffuculties....otherwise known as issues with my laptop. But we are fixed now that I have a new Pumpkin. Yay! And so now I am finally able to share with you my layout using the last photo prompt.....

And here are some of the details.....

To create my layout I used prompts from Kara's This & That class, which I am still loving! I cut out a large gold frame from an Anthro catalogue, and layered a piece of pink vellum over the top, sewed it together, and then layered my photo, more paper, the embellishments and added my title with more layered paper. Fun.

Have a great week!

Love, Carrie

Your Appointment with Monday

2011-08-15T00:01:00.000-07:00

Happy Monday Bubblegum Life friends! I am a little behind schedule sharing my Friday photo prompt today, but I wanted my photo to be just right so it took a little extra work this week. This photo prompt can be as interactive or simple as you'd like it to be.....the prompt is to:

Tell a story with something handmade.

My photo tells a tale of a sweet little dinosaur named Stella that goes out on an adventure following a yellow brick road.

It all started with me wanting to spray paint my dinosaur pink. Then I decided that she needed a little embellishment, so I added some floral rub-ons. Just this simple process took a bit of a learning curve for me to figure out how to come as close as I could to the way I had pictured her in my head. And note to self: remember to spray sealer over the spray paint before using the rub-ons....otherwise you rub off the paint! Once I had her finished I knew that she would be the perfect handmade subject for my photo, and now she is hanging out on my craft table ready for more fun : )

When you go to take your photo, you can use any handmade item as your subject.....maybe it's a scrapbook you created for your daughter and you shoot a pic of her looking through it.....you can really do anything you want, but I think when you are done you will have a wonderful memory to do with as you please.

Have the best week!!!

Love, Carrie

Giveaway Winner!!!

2011-08-13T23:50:00.000-07:00

And the winner is.....

Congratulations Sweet Escape! You are the lucky winner!!! Please email me at carrieelias(at)yahoo(dot)com to claim your prize : )

Love, Carrie

Project Monday & A Giveaway!

2011-08-08T15:59:00.000-07:00

Today I am excited to share with you both my project and Kara's *This and That* class giveaway!!! First off, here is my layout using last Friday's photo prompt, and two prompts from Kara's upcoming class.....

The stamped background is one of Kara's fun technique prompts using an acrylic Prima stamp, and my title an easy journaling prompt using different colored thickers.....

And then all I did was add some sewing, paint splatter, a rub-on, mount my photo on chipboard, and round the corners. I am really loving how fun and easy Kara's prompts have made my last two layouts......so, now for the good stuff. Kara's *This and That* class giveaway!

This & That is a three week online class jam-packed with challenges, journaling prompts, and techniques designed to get you scrapbooking again. Mix and match and use this and that to create thirty plus pages! Choose one journaling prompt and one technique idea from the pool and combining ideas to get excited about creating again.

The class runs from August 15th-September 2nd, where you will receive access to a private blog, 30 journaling prompts, 30 technique prompts and ideas, a tutorial for creating vintage handkerchief albums, a printable embellishment sheet, 2 instructor videos, email access to Kara, Giveaways, and a PDF of the entirety of the class.

How to enter for a chance to win: Link the *This and That* class info using this link on your twitter, facebook, blog, etc. Then leave me a comment below with your name and the link to where you shared it!

For additional entries: Play along with any Bubblegum Life photo prompt!!! Then leave me a comment with your name and a link to your photo.....and don't forget to add your photo to our Bubblegum Life Flickr Group (if you have a Flickr account) so everyone else can see it too!

This giveaway is open through Friday, August 12th. A winner will be selected at random and announced over the weekend. Good luck!!!

Have the best week!

Love, Carrie

Your Appointment with Friday

2011-08-05T00:01:00.000-07:00

Happy Friday to you! This week's photo prompt is sure to brighten your day, it is to make time to.....

Paint your nails a favorite color combo.

One of my favorite color combo's right now is red, pink and yellow....I think they are soooo pretty together! I set up my tripod, grabbed a bunch of yarn and squeezed them with love for my photos. Of course at first, I wasn't quite sure how to photograph my freshly painted nails, but all it took was a little imagination and now I have a couple crafty photos in addition to pretty colors at the end of my fingers.

This week, if you find yourself asking, "What is something fun I can do for myself today?", I would recommend this. Paint your nails a favorite color combo and then take a photo of them. It feels great : )

Have a lovely weekend!

Love, Carrie

A SUNSHINE PHOTOSHOOT

2011-08-02T17:57:00.000-07:00

These photos are from a photoshoot with Stephanie on the cliffs at La Jolla Shores. (There are more over at Bubblegum Life that I took specifically for this week's photo prompt.) Orignially we had just planned on taking a couple photos together, but our day ended up turning into a whole afternoon of fun! I set up my tripod for the photos of us together (which you can see over at Bubblegum Life), and then we took turns goofing off while the other snapped away. The weather was heavenly, there was a cool breeze, and it felt like everything was glowing that afternoon.....hence the soft and colorful photoshop editing. It was a happy time! I love how time with friends can be so special . <3 Carrie

Project Monday & This and That

2011-08-02T02:51:00.000-07:00

Hello lovely people! This week's project is extra special. I am excited to say it is brought to you courtesy of Kara Haupt's new online class called "This and That". And so before I share my layout, here's a little about this fun upcoming class.....

Haven’t scrapbooked in awhile? Feeling uninspired with your current supplies and same old photos? Want to try scrap booking or art journaling but don’t where to start?

Price: $35 USD

Dates: August 15th-September 2nd

Included:

Access to private blog

30 journaling prompts

30 technique prompts and ideas

Tutorial for creating vintage handkerchief albums

Printable embellishment sheet

2 instructor videos

Email access to Kara

Giveaways!

PDF of the entirety of the class

Doesn't it look like so much fun?!? This lovely class goes on sale August 5th, and here will be the link to purchase:

http://www.classesbykara.com/thisandthat_/

And now for my project using two of the awesome prompts from this class.....

The paper in the background are the written photoshop actions I used for editing my photo prompt photos, and all the pretty kites and colorful rick rack are Martha Stewart.....I love my title which was a journaling prompt.....And I am thrilled with how easily this layout came together! Piece of cake!!! Now I can't wait for more : )

Have the best week <3

Love, Carrie

P.S. I will be sharing one more layout from Kara's class as well as a giveaway, so stay tuned for more!

Your Appointment with Friday

2011-07-29T02:23:00.000-07:00

This week's photo prompt brought with it a super fun photoshoot for me and my friend Stephanie (love that). The photo prompt is to.....

Take a photo with a friend

We had an awesome afternoon at the La Jolla shores.....taking photos.....

The weather was just right, so we crafted on a giant quilt under a huge tree on the soft grass next to the ocean, took a stroll on the boardwalk, soaked up art at the Mangelson Gallery, and ate yummy gilato. It was the perfect treat after my productive work week!

We specifically took instant camera themed photos since we both have a love for photography in common, and on Tuesday when I share my Project Monday you'll see why.....it's a really cool surprise!!!

I hope your weekend is full of creativity and happy times.

Love, Carrie

Project Monday

2011-07-27T01:52:00.000-07:00

Hello, lovely people : ) Today I finally made time to snap a couple photos of my 2011 album so you could take a peek.....

As you can see I really like using the different size page protectors to share my projects as well as any additional photos from that day.....

Originally I was also going to add in some of the text from my blog posts that coordinates with the photos, but I started at the beginning of the year without keeping it up. And I am totally OK with that. The main thing is that I personally have found this specific project probably the most rewarding project I do for myself. There is something about having photos from my posts over at Blume & Grow, along with my Bubblegum Life photo prompts and projects all printed up and seeing them together that really feels great! I can honestly say that it has made a major difference in the enjoyment of my photo, project and blog activity.....I love that I have this fun to look forward to every week <3

Love, Carrie

P.S. This Friday and coming Tuesday I have an extra special photo prompt and Project Monday to share so stay tuned.....

Your Appointment with Friday

2011-07-22T15:13:00.000-07:00

Happy Friday everyone! This week's photo prompt is to.....

Go on a picnic.

Ryan and I spent a wonderful afternoon relaxing on our soft quilt (handmade by his Grandma) last Sunday. These photos are of what I saw from the quilt.....the palm tree view above us (witch also provided our shade), the ocean view at our feet, our yummy lunch, and little goofing off.....

I actually have a whole sequence of us making silly faces that I still need to edit. The photo above is one of the only shots I got of us just being happy : )

Your assignment this week is to go on a picnic and take as many or as few photos as you like of what you see while you're there. And honestly it doesn't have to be a big ordeal.....for our picnic I just grabbed a couple dishes from the cupboard, some travel mugs, napkins, silverware and food, and it was perfect!

Enjoy your weekend!

Love, Carrie

P.S. I am planning on sharing a peek into my 2011 Album for my Project Monday.....it will probably be up sometime later in the day on Monday <3

HARRY POTTER AT MIDNIGHT....

2011-07-20T17:18:00.000-07:00

So I ended up going to midnight showing of Harry Potter last week with a sweet friend. It was totally last minute, due to babysitting issues and we had a blast!

Here's a couple things I want to remember from that night:

Standing in line, and later walking through the theater I thought all the Hogwarts looking ties that people wore were really fun
Popcorn and cherry coke for dinner was yummy (I actually forgot to eat a real dinner on accident)
A late night filled with lots of people and excitment in the air was a thrill
I tried to take photos while I was standing in line outside, but they all came out blurry because I couldn't focus on what I was doing
I'd never shown up to a midnight movie this late before...I think I got there at like 10:15pm (it felt a little hectic till I settled in)
Chatting with April before the movie started was nice.....she hadn't seen Part 1, so I tried to remember all the good stuff to help get her caught up.....I think talking about it added to the anticipation
Being able to see the midnight showing of the LAST Harry Potter movie is something I think I will never forget
And last but not least, the theater gave us super cool Harry Potter looking 3D glasses which I LOVE!

It was a good night <3 Carrie

Summer Muse

2011-07-20T15:50:00.000-07:00

Here's a little bouquet.....I hope it adds some cheer to your day.....
Love, Carrie

Your Appointment with Friday

2011-07-16T23:05:00.000-07:00

Since summertime means warm weather, fans, AC, cold drinks, smoothies, swimming, evening dinners outside and all the other things we do help us enjoy the warmer temperatures.......this week's photo prompt is:

Keep it Cool

I asked Ryan to take this photo of me with my iced Starbucks, a special treat that has been helping me say cool during the heat wave we've been having here in San Diego. Raspberries are my favorite fruit this summer, so lately I have been enjoying my iced raspberry vanilla latte (with a little cream)! Hmmmmm....soooo good!!! Oh, and right now I also really love my trusty Starbucks mug.....it often holds yummy lattes (pictured above), ice water, ice tea, or cherry coke zero with a little cinnamon. It's kinda like icing on the cake for me <3

What have you been doing to keep cool?

Love, Carrie

P.S. I've decided to skip most of my Project Monday's for the month of July to give myself a short break. However, I do plan on sharing a little peek into my 2011 album in it's place either this Monday or next. xoxo

Summer Muse

2011-07-13T23:52:00.000-07:00

I think a lot of us are ready to feel like this right now : )

Love, Carrie

2011-07-11T20:31:00.000-07:00

(Serves 3)

Ingredients

• 1 cups uncooked white rice

• 1 1/2 cups good-quality coconut milk, plus a dash more

• 1 1/4 cups water

• 1/2 tsp. coconut oil, OR vegetable oil

• 3 tablespoons soy sauce

• 2 tablespoons creamy peanut butter

• 2 teaspoons white wine vinegar

• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper

• 3 tablespoons olive oil

• 2 skinless, boneless chicken breast halves - cut into thin strips

• 1 1/2 tablespoons chopped garlic

• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh ginger root

• 1/2 cup chopped green onions

• ½ of a sliced red bell pepper

• 1 cup of chopped cabbage

• ½ cup of shredded carrots

• ½ cup of sugar snap peas

• 1/4 cup unsalted dry-roasted peanuts chopped into small pieces

Directions

1. Start with preparing the coconut rice. Rub oil over the bottom of a deep-sided pot. You will also need a tight-fitting lid.

Place rice, coconut milk, water, shredded coconut, and salt in the pot and set over medium-high to high heat. Stir occasionally to keep rice from sticking to the bottom of the pot and burning.
Once the coconut-water has begun to gently bubble, stop stirring and reduce heat to low (just above minimum). Cover tightly with a lid and let simmer 15-20 minutes, or until most of the liquid has been absorbed by the rice. To check, pull rice aside with a fork. If most of the coconut milk-water is gone, go on to the next step.

2. While waiting for rice to simmer start prepping your chopped ingredients.

3. Check rice after about 10 minutes…..

To check, pull rice aside with a fork. If most of the coconut milk-water is gone, go on to the next step.
Replace the lid and turn off the heat, but leave the covered pot on the burner to steam another 5-10 minutes, or until you're ready to eat. Tip: Your Coconut Rice will stay warm this way for up to 1 hour or more, great for when you're expecting company!
When ready to serve, remove the lid and fluff rice with a fork or chopsticks.

4. Once your chopped ingredients are ready, in a small bowl, stir together the soy sauce, peanut butter, vinegar, dash of coconut milk and cayenne pepper. Set aside.

5. Heat oil in a skillet or wok over high heat. Add chicken, garlic and ginger, and cook, stirring constantly, until chicken is golden on the outside, about 5 minutes.

6. Reduce heat to medium, and add green onion, cabbage, carrots, red bell pepper, sugar snap peas, peanuts, and the peanut butter mixture. Cook, stirring frequently, for 5 minutes, or until vegetables are tender, and chicken is cooked through. Serve over coconut rice.

I have been really enjoying Thai food lately, so I decided to make one of my favorite dishes at home last week. It's recipe I modified from allrecipies.com. It was soooo yummy (sorry I had trouble getting a good photo.....this one doesn't do it justice)!!! If you decide to try it, I hope you like <3 Carrie

SOMEONE TURNED 1 TODAY

2011-07-09T22:09:00.000-07:00

Happy birthday to my sweet little puppy Ponyo....xoxo <3 Carrie

Your Appointment with Friday

2011-07-09T10:13:00.000-07:00

This week I thought it would be fun to go out and take a photo during your favorite summer time of day.....

Your Magic Hour

My favorite time is just before sunset, so these photos were taken between 6:30 and 7:30 pm. I love the way the sun makes everything light up.....

Plus, this summer has been pretty warm the past week, so evening hours have been heavenly. What's your favorite summer time of day?

Have a wonderful weekend!

Love, Carrie

INTRIGUING

2011-07-07T23:08:00.000-07:00

( source, source, source, source, source, source )

Today I thought it would be fun to share the most captivating movies I've seen so far this summer. You know, the kind that stay with you for a while, and know you'll enjoy watching again and again.....I find it comforting to relax in bed on a warm summer evening and enjoy a good movie. So from top to bottom, here they are:

The Illusionist (2010) - new to DVD, this movie is so charming there is no need for dialog.....plus it's beautifully illustrated
Midnight in Paris (2011) - still in some theaters, Woody Allen's most recent movie is intoxicating.....the characters, the dialog.....I didn't want it to end
The King's Speech (2010) - I'm a bit late watching this gem seeing as how almost everyone else I know has seen it by now, but I love it just the same.....beautiful to look at, it is only enhanced by how interesting the story and characters are.....the humanity in it is uplifting : )

What movies are you enjoying this summer? <3 Carrie

Summer Muse

2011-07-06T14:25:00.000-07:00

I hope you are having a wonderful summertime!

Love, Carrie

HAPPY JULY!

2011-07-01T02:30:00.000-07:00

There is a special photo prompt up over at Bubblegum Life to add to your fun holiday weekend. Have a wonderful 4th of July! Lots of love, Carrie

Your Appointment with Friday

2011-07-01T02:11:00.000-07:00

Happy 4th of July weekend to you! For this week's photo prompt I though it would be festive to try a little experiment with.....

Light bokeh shapes.

Bokeh is the pretty light that is out of focus in the background of your photo. You can make this light turn into a shape by creating your own lens hood. Cool, huh?!? This is my first try, so my shapes aren't perfect.....but it shure was fun taking my pictures. They are from the fair. There were so many pretty lights on all the rides : )

Also, I have to say that I first learned about bokeh photos last summer while taking Kara Haupt's awesome "Summer of Love" class (if you haven't bought the class pdf yet, you should).....ever since then I'm always amazed with how much beauty they add to a photo!!! Thank you Kara for introducing me to this lovely effect! I learned a lot from your class while having a blast <3

And now back to our photo prompt. For my bokeh heart shape I used this tutorial to make my lens hood. I hadn't figured out the exact ratio of the size that my shape should be before taking these photos, so I improvised. However, later I did find these instructions so when I try again it will be easier to be more accurate. One thing I would like to mention though, is that I found it is really important to keep your aperture as low as it will go, and then looking at your light meter to just under expose a little. It will help keep your shape crisp. And just as a reminder, don't forget to turn your lens to manual focus so you can blur your background.

If you have an extra 5 minutes to make your own lens hood, you won't regret it.....it will make your holiday photos extra special. Have a fantastic holiday weekend!!!

Love, Carrie

Summer Muse

2011-06-29T12:01:00.000-07:00

Here's to new discoveries!
Love, Carrie

TACOS AT THE BEACH

2011-06-28T12:01:00.000-07:00

On Sunday Ryan and I spent an impromptu afternoon at the beach.....It happened like this: We had planned on getting a couple tacos and eating them at the beach. Well, as we were getting ready to head out the door, Ryan starts to change. I asked him what he was doing and he said that he was putting on his swimming trunks (which was completely unexpected). So, that's when I got excited and put on my bathing suit, we found a couple towels, grabbed our tacos and spent some enjoyable time sitting in our beach chairs. Eating lunch (and the best potato tacos EVER). People watching. Chatting. And even cooling off from the hot sun in the ocean.....the water felt so refreshing, splashing up against my shoulders as I stood waist deep.

At one point I was evaluating all the ugly beach umbrellas, wondering why there were no pretty ones until this beauty caught me eye.....

I think it's just perfect.....so I snapped a photo of course ; )

Happy summertime lovelies!!! <3 Carrie

Project Monday

2011-06-28T11:22:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone! Happy Tuesday to you!!! For this week's project I'm sharing a layout I finally got around to creating using my colorful fair photos (from week before last).....

This layout ended up being very simple, but I think fun to look at.....just how I feel about that day : ) I really wanted the photos to stand out, and since there were so many, each one is layered with a raffle ticket to give it a little bit of uniformity and add some quirky character.....

The raffle tickets and glittered thickers are from the lovely Color Me Miki shop, and I think are perfect for summer scrapbooking!

As far as last week's photos, I have decided to print up the collage I made to add to my 2011 album, so that's why there's no project with them today <3

I hope you're having a great summer.....see ya tomorrow!

Love, Carrie

WHAT'S FOR LUNCH

2011-06-27T15:32:00.000-07:00

Today I thought it would be fun to share what a typical weekday lunch looks like for me:

Lots of fresh fruit (raspberries are my favorite this summer)
Seasoned nuts
A sausage beef stick
Cheese

That's pretty much it other than something refreshing to drink like ice tea or a cherry coke zero. And today it just so happens that I have this movie on while working on my projects/Pumpkin.....Bringing Up Baby.....

(source)

I like to have movies on while I work. The background noise, and looking up here and there to see something pretty on the TV, seems to work really well for me.....

(source)

This movie in particular is very sweet, beautiful to look at, and makes me laugh out loud quite a bit. Katharine Hepburn is adorable and very quirky. Plus, having a real leopard as one of the main characters is really fun.

Well, I'm off to get stuff done. Have a lovely week!!! <3 Carrie