This week we celebrated Valentine's Day! My mom's birthday is also Valentine's Day, so growing up, it wasn't really about Valentine's for us, but celebrating Mom's birthday. This year was a 'biggie' for her - 60. Yes, my beautiful, youthful mom turned 60 Thursday. And she's had quite a difficult time with it! Most anyone that sees a picture of her can't believe she would have a problem, as she looks so great. But anyone that actually knows her, understands. So let's just leave it at that. Here is a photo of her from the wedding (with Brooks, Ben and me). Doesn't she look fab???
We threw her a surprise party on Friday the 8th at Jeff Ruby's. It was so good, I can't even describe it! And we totally got her! She had no idea, and the first words out of her mouth were "if I had known there was going to be a party for me I would have worn something different. I need to go home and change!" That's my mom!
Ben and I had a lovely dinner at Bonefish. At the eleventh hour I finished his gift! I had received a heart-shaped chipboard box with heart-shaped 3-ring mini album inside from my Scrapologie kit that I knew would be perfect for Valentine's Day! Inspired tremendously by Ranjini's project peeks (and please check out her blog link to the right), I started the box about 3 weeks ago. I made my mom a small album for her birthday, and had to switch gears mid-project, and was only able to get back to work on his gift just this week. Nothing like having a deadline to get me in super-motion!
I also helped out with Peyton's Valentine's party at school, and I raced to be there on time. While I waited for two of the girls to dance at school, I managed to make a punched heart art piece inspired by AliE's blog. It was last-minute, but I like how it turned out so much I am planning to make one for spring, fall and Christmas.
Here are some photos of the projects...
I am really loving mini-albums lately. There is just something immensely satisfying to me to have a completed project. I've made 4 or 5 since last summer, and I have several ideas swimming in my head, not to mention 5 more album projects in the works. If only I could scrap all day everyday!
Despite being so 'into' the mini-albums, I have completed 2 regular layouts this month as well.... one is of Madelyn with Max - such adorable photos! - and the other is of the kittens. I had wanted to do a tribute to the old man cat, but realized the photo I wanted is at my office. So I did these other two instead.
I am also considering another online photography course. The 2nd phase of BPS's 4 Experts is about kicking your photography skills up a notch, with composition being a main focus. I am certainly not a whiz in my Photoshop skills, but I do think I know enough to get alot out of her class in spite of that fact. Since taking the online basic photography class last summer, I do know how to use the Manual settings, I am just not sure what settings to use for different situations. I think this class addresses that. The $250 price tag is the only things that has me hesitating. That and our travel schedule for April and May. It seems we are gone quite a bit for those two months.
I am enjoying my renewed scrapping mojo lately! I am incredibly motivated, but have been super busy. I did some major (belated) cleaning, so I should hopefully have time next week for playing with my scrap stuff. I also need to start the scrapbook I am making for Cathie for her anniversary this summer. Whew! Lots to keep me busy, that's for sure.
Better go GET BUSY!
