Time to move forward

So, I've left the last post up for a while on purpose. A little tribute, if you will, to the old man. I gotta say, it is definitely quiet around here without him right under our feet. But as they say, there is a season for everything.... and it is time for me to move forward.

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!