My Playroom....My Happiness

CS SKETCH 105

2010-05-30T17:16:00.004+08:00

Been on a scrappin' mode a couple of days ago and tried this sketch by Kristine Davidson from Creative Scrappers:

And here's my very simple LO with my DS. Every time I ask him to smile and look at the camera, this is what I get.....hm? as if he didn't hear nor understand me. It is his own way of "lambing"! For around two years, I've been used to it, and managed to enjoy taking pictures of him with or without his smile.

TRIFECTA

2010-05-24T07:45:00.005+08:00

This time, I tried my hand on Design Dollies Trifecta:
Here's the sketch:

the Colors:

and for the Elements: Animals

And here is my take: DH really had fun chasing those crabs during low tide at Sandbar Island - Caramoan. But he made sure no one gets hurt during the process!

Taming the Bicycle

2010-04-15T07:33:00.004+08:00

Over at Page Maps' blog is an ongoing sketch challenge which is up until the 25th. This is my first time to join their challenge though not my first time to use their sketches.

Here's the sketch as well as my take:

it took me sometime to think of the appropriate title for this LO. Until I came across of the essay written by Mark Twain (1884) with the same title. Though we are of different accounts with regards to bike matters, still I find it perfect for the LO.

Pia is so eager to go biking with us around the campus. She insisted to re-paint the hand-me-down bike she got from her Kuya Soy and we decorated it with "acid free" stickers the scrapbooker way. It's so tempting to add flowers and blings, too! (LOL) DH customized and re-assembled it in accordance to Pia's own preferences. We had few sessions with her teaching her to ride the bike without the aid of the small training wheels attached at the sides of the rear wheel. We actually don't remember that we went through this way with our 2 older kids.

I'm looking forward to a fun filled "bike tour" with the whole family.

Self Portrait

2010-04-15T06:26:00.004+08:00

This is my take for Scrap-the-Girls' April 5,4,3,2,1 Challenge:
Use 5 x buttons, 4 x patterned papers, 3 x flowers, 2 x photos, 1 x alpha

My 2 DDs are fond of taking pictures of themselves, making faces, expressing varied emotions. It is mostly done either by using mobile phones or our point and shoot digicam. I'm amazed seeing these pics coz' Pia managed to strike a pose and took pictures of herself using my DSLR which is too big for her little hands and even made sure that she has a plain backdrop.

The fun memories behind the pictures inspired me a lot and it is evident of the colors I used on the layout.

TFL!

Priceless

2010-04-05T21:57:00.005+08:00

The LB Scrapaholics and Family 4th Annual Easter Egg Hunting was a blast! Each year, our family is getting bigger, the hunting gets merrier, the "bonding" is deeper, and the fun and laughter....... PRICELESS!

Quite sad that we missed Timi and Family this time but we're looking forward for the new member by next Hunting! Tons of photos were taken and some have been uploaded on FB and each others' blogs and highlights can be found at our own LBS blog But what deeply touched my heart were these pics:

We're not just FRIENDS.....WE ARE FAMILY!

Scrappin' Mode

2010-04-04T09:49:00.006+08:00

Hi Everyone! I'm still feeling "high" and in the best mood creating simple layouts. My good friend Chix suggested to try the Ad challenge over at Butterfly crafts. Challenges" force" me to go out of my comfort zone and try new things.

Here's the Ad:

And here's my entry entitled SMILE!

Quote: always remember to be happy because you never know who's falling in love with your smile! (author unknown)

Li'l by Little

2010-04-03T07:37:00.009+08:00

It's been almost a month since I last sit in my playroom. On February I managed to create 14 LOs in 11 days (thanks to Scrapmuse' Spread the Love Challenge) and on March, I made 2 LOs only, just beating the deadline for Scrap the Girls and Scrapmuse' March Challenges.

Scrap the Girls (Ad inspired Challenge)

Journaling: True Friends - are the people who brighten your smile every time you're with them!

Note: They perfectly have the brightest smiles....coz' I'm the one behind the camera! (Makati Parks and Garden, August 2009 - my birthday!)

Scrapmuse March Challenge (Use the title "Live out Loud")

Journaling: Enjoy LIFE as much and in as many ways as possible:

- smile and laugh often
- do what you want to do
- expect the unexpected
- see value in each experience
- be who you want to be

And here comes April.....The HEAT is on.....it's SUMMER!!! I have finished 3 LOs already. The first one is for a friend who's getting married next week (can't post it yet) and the other 2 is for Design Dollies.

I'm keeping my fingers crossed - I'll beat my record for February!

Design Dollies (Elements Challenge)
ingredients for this week's Elements challenge must include:

1) a Frame of sorts (My Mind's Eye Transparency Frame)
2) A stamped image (A swirl near the title)
3) The color brown (Matting and border, and the alpha chipboards, too)
4) 3 flowers (no more, no less) - (Basically I used 3 only)
5) Butterflies (I got 2)

And for the Color Challenge ( Use RED, TURQUOISE and BLACK or WHITE)

Can't Get Enough!

2010-03-24T21:32:00.003+08:00

Since Day 1 of March until the 20th, DH has been traveling a lot. He brought home tons of pictures to scrap (of course) and boxes of chocolates and cheese from Germany, Cute stuff, electronic gadgets and yummy food from Japan and white coffee, toys and little things from Singapore. But what made me happier than seeing him again (LOL!) is when he gave me a small bag filled with these "stuff"! Got 17 pcs and he actually bought all that he can find in bookstores in Japan and SG! And he got it almost twice cheaper than the regular price. Isn't he sweet and adorable?

Got it!

2010-03-24T20:24:00.007+08:00

It took around two weeks only until I got this from the local post office:

My heart was pounding when I opened the box since in the first place I was not expecting to receive "a box". Thought it's going to be just "a pouch" of goodies! I literally kept on "digging" from the box, had my table full of goodies and still can't get it done. Whew! All in all I got 41 packs of prima items from blings to flowers to embies, stamps, and mini book.

And here are the yummy stuff from Prima!

THANK YOU SO MUCH PRIMA! I'm still in search of the right words to express how grateful I am.

Ask....Believe....Receive

2010-03-06T05:13:00.003+08:00

That's what happening right now! And here's another one of the week's blessings....this time from PRIMA!

Think positive....visualize... and everything will come to you the way you want it!
Have a great day Everyone!!

Feelin' Good

2010-03-05T18:30:00.004+08:00

First week of March is quite hectic - DH left for a week trip to Germany on Day 1 and my hands are full of mommy duties and as OIC in DH's company.

Though I wasn't able to scrap even a single LO for the entire week (I think DH brought my mojo), I stll have some good news to share. And that's as far as scrapbooking is concerned.

Pia (my DD, 8 y.o.) won at Kids Can Scrap for Challenge #18. She submitted 3 LOs and no doubt her name was picked from random drawing! LOL! In fairness, she scraps well. You may view her LOs here.

I also won at Scrapmuse month long Challenge (Spread the Love) and got 2 kits coming my way!

Another one, there's a rumor that my name was picked from random drawing at Prima Live (this I need to verify first)...but on a positive note I'm visualizing it's really ME! Is there any other Liezl there who scraps?

It's Friday.... and I thank GOD for this day! Feel good everyone!

Prima's Secret

2010-03-04T07:18:00.003+08:00

Yes! Prima is giving away two more AMAZING prize packages in conjunction with their BIG SECRET!

Head on over to the Prima blog on how you can win!

Dollies' Sketch

2010-03-01T06:57:00.005+08:00

I'm loving sketches lately and here's another sketch challenge from Design Dollies:

and here's my take:

Journaling: The question just popped in while we were eating the yummy valentine cupcakes...
"How do you call those "SILVER" things on the cupcake?
DD1 - beads ; DS - pellets DD2 - blings and DH naughtily answered.... bolitas!!!
How about you?

TFL!

Color Challenge

2010-02-22T06:38:00.002+08:00

This one from Design Dollies was a tough one (for me)! We're required to use lavender-gray-white/ivory! Hmmm....this is supposed to be the 1st to be done from the week's challenges but it happened to be the last for me to came up with.

Here's my scrappin' buddies - the LB Scrapaholics! The pic was taken during our first ever Pajama Party held at Ritz's place. It's a "Scrap until you drop" thing. Even our DHs are encouraging us to do it again coz' they know how much fun we had!

Another One for the Dollies

2010-02-21T09:01:00.005+08:00

For the Elements Challenge- Design Dollies is asking for a project in honor of the women who have touched our lives in one way or another.
Throughout my entire life, there's a lot of wonderful women who touched and are continuously touching my life leaving HEARTPRINTS.....of love, friendship and enormous joy. And I'm grateful for them. My mom ranks No. 1 of course followed by my daughters (it's a tie)! Whatever I am today, I owe it to her. If my kids would say I'm a good mom, it is because I have the best mom!
I made this LO for her and my daughters.....they are my Beloved Women!
I used Webster's Pages (for the first time) and some ranger distress inks for the base CS. Added Prima flowers and blings!

Notes(Writer Unknown):
She gave me love as well as life, so whatever goodness I may bring to Earth began with the gift of my mother's heart!

TFL!

Design Dollies

2010-02-20T09:05:00.013+08:00

Chix recommended to visit Design Dollies for me to gather more inspirations and to keep me in the mood to scrap. And she was right! The site is indeed fabulous and the challenges are great.

Here's my take to their Sketch challenge:

Love Month

2010-02-19T16:04:00.007+08:00

February indeed is a month of LOVE. We had a pre-valentine family dinner by candlelight at the garden of Café Lina where we had so much excitement guessing what to eat next after each serving and of course a fun filled photo op.

Since scrappin’ is one of the things I love, I’m happy to say I have made 7 LOs as of last night and my mojo is still here. I’m more on clean and simple LOs.
Special thanks to Scrapmuse’ “Spread the Love” month long challenges for giving me inspirations and that certain “PUSH” for me to scrap more often.
I will upload my finished LOs here at the end of the month.

Also, Nette of My Little Attic gave us an opportunity to get a FREE class pass to Valerie Salmon’s Got Sketch 105!!!
All we have to do is make a layout based Val’s sketch and winner will be randomly chosen so everybody has an equal chance of winning.   Here’s the link to Val’s class:

And here’s the sketch and my entry:

ScrapMuse Blog HOP

2010-02-16T16:50:00.003+08:00

Hi everyone! There's something exciting happening at Scrapmuse from Feb 15-17. Check it out here

I had fun "hopping" from one blog to another. It's my first time and for sure this wouldn't be the last.
The inspirations are overwhelming and my hands are itching to scrap!

Come and enjoy the journey!

To Do List

2010-02-10T18:13:00.002+08:00

New year resolutions shouldn’t start nor end in January, right?
And for the fresh start (It’s Chinese New Year, anyway…though I’m not a Chinese) here goes my list:

1. undergo complete medical check up before March ends (I did it last year!) and was proclaimed “perfectly healthy!” I want to hear those words again!
2. keep riding my bike with DH and kids (next Saturday would be the first for 2010)
3. hone my driving skills (with DH supervision) and drive more often (the car is automatic, no excuses)
4. scrap regularly and achieve at least 4 LOs per month (got 8 in January)!
5. add few more crunches (I’m havin’ 80-100 every morning!)
6. limit my rice intake to 1 cup per meal (sigh!)
7. learn to cook MORE of family favorites! It used to be fried rice omelet and sushi only! LOL!!! Kids are getting demanding each day!
8. make “bonding time” longer on a daily basis!
9. keep on giggling and laughin! (it’s my daily dose!)
10. be happier and make others happy, too!

that's all for now! would update if something come up later!

Fresh Start in February

2010-02-10T15:59:00.002+08:00

Hi everyone! Been MIA for the longest time but i know there's always a second chance.

For January I made 8 layouts in 2 days ( Scrap Buffet Jan 30 -31). Thanks to Ritz and the rest of LB Scrapaholics for the never ending support and encouragement.

And to make the ball rolling, I joined the month long challenge ' Spread the Love" at Scrapmuse

Come and join us.... have fun and keep those LOs comin"!

2009 Layouts

2009-10-23T09:48:00.001+08:00

To Work Backward

2009-10-23T09:11:00.002+08:00

I guess it’s the best way to update my blog and share with you some of my escapades for the last few months. I’ve been too lazy to post everything but not that lazy to join few scrap challenges, to “play” with my heart’s delight and to have bonding moments with my family and friends. Yes, I am basically overloaded with office works (as DH assistant) but I see to it that as soon as I get home from the office (it’s a stone throw away only) no “office matters” shall interfere with my mommy duties and “me time”.

Little by little, I'm moving at least one step ahead everyday. I uploaded some pics (for the 1st time, hehehe) on Facebook and hoping to upload it here, too. I'm keeping my fingers, crossed!

Better Late than Never

2009-07-08T11:07:00.005+08:00

LB Scrapaholics always find ways to support Scrappin’ Moms not only because we owe them a lot but because we simply Love them and we Believe in their dreams. For three years of SM Idol, LB girls are always there – competing and having fun! This time, not everyone is available to join the weekly challenges – but it doesn’t mean we’re OFF from it. Cors challenged everyone to come up with a LAYOUT in accordance to the Idol requirements. Timi, Chix and Helga – being our official representatives will make LOs under time pressure (though it seems they’re not pressured after all), while the rest will make LOs in their own time (so unfair?), hehehe!
So for the elimination round –here’s my ad inspired LO. Done two weeks behind the deadline with 2 more challenges to make.
here's the AD:

And here's my LO - inspired with the swirls and circles:

Journaling:
It touches our hearts
Whenever we see you this way…..
Hands together, happy and at peace.
We can feel that with each other, you’ll never go astray
And life will always be
SAFE AND SECURED.....
as safe and as secured as it is
when you’re in our loving arms.
(Tatay and Nanay)

I would like to share with you my most favorite LO – very simple, very basic. But I guess you’ll agree that the picture says it all. I made this during Scrapfest 2006 (On the Spot Challenge). I was so lucky to get the grand prize then.

Journaling: BSP find happiness and draw strength from each other. As they grow under one roof, they learn about fairness, kindness and sharing. Together they laugh, cry, play, fight and love. As they hold each other's hands, I can see that life's journey will neither be too long nor too hard coz' they have someone to lean and count on. They have each other.

Comparing my 2 LOs my feelings remain the same over the years. I still have that great faith that my kids will be just fine no matter what path they take and where their journey brings them as long as they have each other and as long as they trust each other.

TFL!

Best Award

2009-05-14T14:45:00.003+08:00

Last Sunday is Mothers' Day and yes, I was expecting for a gift from kids and DH. And they didn’t disappoint me. I got scented colored pen, a pair of slippers, tote bag and a lovely wooden clock.
After lunch, they handed me another gift. It’s a small envelope and inside is another wooden thing. It’s small and simple, yet very meaningful.
I’m proud to show this to everyone and I can’t help but smile whenever I look at it (the truth is I laughed hard when I saw it the 1st time).

To Alden, Bea, Soy and Pia – Thank You very much for this award. - for appreciating my efforts, and for making me smile and even laugh everyday! You’re the best “Amo”! hehehe!

Meeting Friends Across the Miles

2009-05-11T17:33:00.002+08:00

I am lucky to have many good friends from way back to first grade (hey, I was 7, then) until this time. Even luckier that most of them are just a stone throw away from me (plus the fact that my BFF happened to be my DH). Others are reachable via skype, ym, phonecalls and SMS.
Meeting people “online” (hobby or business related) is a different thing. Basically, it’s a sort of “Hi and Hello” especially if they are from other countries. Exchanging ideas and stories, sharing traditions and beliefs and other stuff deepens the acquaintance. You’ll wake up one day and regard them as “friends”!
I am blessed to finally meet in person my friends in Singapore and Malaysia when our family spent our “summer” vacation there.
The first one is Wati. She is lovelier and sweeter than I thought. I was deeply touched when she took time to accompany me and my DDs to shop at Laine’s Scrapbook Store (I felt I was a li’l girl, brought to an extremely huge candy store). The next one is Mich - so elegant , very accommodating and as generous as ever. She spent time visiting us at the hotel with her equally nice kids. We were supposed to shop till we drop, too but my DD was not feeling well, then. Both Ladies, are new found friends from scrapbooking world.
I also had the chance to meet Rashidah and Charlene. They are from Science related companies which we are dealing with for the past several years. When we finally able to put faces in each names… it’s like as if we’ve been together so many times before. Hugging each other came so naturally.
In Malacca, My family also met my DH’s friend back in college – Avi – who spent time driving us around town, had dinner with us (and made sure we’ll have a taste for some of “the best” of Malacca) and still the one who brought us back to the bus station on our departure.
In KL, aside from Mich, we have Sam and his wife Rajani. We had a sumptuous dinner at their lovely home with their kids and other members of the family. Pia had a great time playing with Rowena (their DD).
All these people are busy and occupied with lots of things that need to be done…. yet they took time to see us, chat with us, and have fun with us. And indeed, we’re grateful. Our vacation will never be as wonderful as it was, if not for these people…. whom we call as FRIENDS!

Will post pics soon! Promise!

Extended Love

2009-03-11T14:44:00.005+08:00

I am deeply touched by the people who are so passionate for this craft (scrapbooking) that they even extend their love to my DD who at a very young age is more passionate and addicted than me.
At first it was only the LB Scrapaholics who are fond of giving stuff to her, then came Joan Yap of Scrappin Moms who is so fond of giving away "goodies" whenever we visit her at her home. Next is Master Iris Uy when DD insisted to have an autographed copy of MM Mag where Iris' LO was featured. Even Ms. Nette of MLA shared her generosity to Pia when she met her at the Attic. This time, even our good friends from Scrappinkids are also sending her scrapbook goodies to encourage her to scrap more.
She's down with fever now for almost 3 days due to Tonsilitis, but this doesn't stop her to scrap. She made one 12x12 LO on Sunday night as entry to Kidscanscrap.com , and an altered item on Monday night. She's up for a mini album but still conceptualizing on the theme.
She's so excited to use all the RAKs she received. And mind you, what belongs to her is HERS, and what belongs to me is OURS! Very clever, isn't she? One thing we don't share is scissors coz she's left-handed!

They're Here!

2009-03-11T14:22:00.005+08:00

Emily of Manhandled is so sweet! She sent the twilight buttons via USPS since UPS requires a lot more paper works. Knowing I'm afraid that it might get lost somewhere she said she's willing to replace it then if it happens. Good thing, the buttons arrived safe and sound! My DDs are so excited (so do I) and don't know which to use first! Here it is!

While this one was handcarried by DH from Singapore....

Soaking Wet!!!

2009-02-24T17:46:00.002+08:00

It was a mixture of emotions – fear, disappointment and grief. I was busy last Sunday editing pics of our lanterns for SK when DS on a “panic mode” said “your scrapbook is wet!” The message didn’t sink in at once because there’s no reason for my scrapbook/s to get wet! The sun is up (definitely, there’s no rain) and they are secured in my playroom (drinking/eating is not allowed). I went to our playroom and lo and behold!... it’s not the scrapbook…. but the scraproom! Everything is dripping wet. Words didn’t come out in my mouth but the tears flowed unstoppably. I don’t know which one to touch first, to dry up and to save. I keep on crying as I wipe each pack of PPs, embies, tools. My AMM tote has water in it. My trolley and carry along bag were not spared, too. DD and DS used bath towels in drying up anything they can touch. DH is the one mopping the floor and giving instructions to my kids. I guess, we're all shocked! Where did the water come from? Our garden hose was left hanging by the fence and its nozzle facing the playroom’s windows. Maybe a street kid got thirsty, used the garden hose to drink some water and most likely don’t know how to turn it off. The water pressure was at its peak since the water hose was used in cleaning the car that morning (that explains why in just few minutes the playroom is soaking wet). Whoever could have seen me in that particular moment would be amused as to why this “girl” is crying over those wet stuff! Only a scrapbooker will surely understand!

This Kid Can Scrap!

2009-02-24T13:34:00.006+08:00

Yes, she can… and I’m proud of her. She showed interest in this craft when she was barely 4 yo only. In 2007 , she joined her first online challenge (actually it’s for adult scrappers only) at “my scrapworks” (Valerie Salmon’s sketch and scrap challenge). What amazed me is her enthusiasm to scrap. She even encouraged her siblings and her father, too to join the challenge. You can view her entry here:
She’s always in the mood to scrap and she’s the one who never gets tired of “pushing” me to scrap. She’s fondly referred as “honorary member” of LB Scrapaholics coz’ she’s always present in our crop sessions (whether we like it or not!) LOL! She even joined some of online crops and recently an online tutorial at Scrappinkids. She actually had received several RAKs from wonderful scrappers whom she idolized (LB Scrapaholics (of course), Master Iris Uy, Wati and Michelle of Scrappinkids).
Finally, Chix and Issa recommended one site that caters to kid scrappers! And look here....

SK's Online Tutorial

2009-02-24T12:58:00.008+08:00

Last Saturday, Pia and I joined the online tutorial over at Scrappinkids! It was Jessy who patiently gave us the instructions. It was a blast, and we had so much fun. It's a worthwhile experience made even better with my DD's presence.
Here's our finished Lanterns!

This is Pia's creation. I did all the cuttings (since she isn't allowed yet to "play" with the craft knife). The next one is mine!

One More Luck, One more RAK!

2009-02-17T15:26:00.001+08:00

This time from Scrappinkids. My name was picked (again) by Aniza’s DS as one of the 2 winners for the V-Day Card challenge. The other one is also a Filipina, Mia Castrillo – a member of Scrappin’ Moms. Wati Basri (owner of SK) is the one who will send out the RAK for me, while Aniza will send the RAK to Mia. Thank you Scrappinkids!

Happy Valentine!

2009-02-13T16:58:00.003+08:00

Hello! Here's my take to Aniza's Card Challenge (Scrappinkids). The felt flower is handmade. Chix shared me a link to You tube on how to mimick Maya Road's felt flowers. I enjoyed doing it and actually made four pieces in one sitting.

Have a healthy heart, too! TFL!

Valentine Treats

2009-02-10T09:39:00.006+08:00

This monogram block has been standing in my playroom for more than 2 years now. Thanks to Wati of Scrappinkids for coming up with a Valentine inspired challenge. I was able to use it, as well as my old stash. The Keepsake bracelet features the whole family. And to make valentine complete, a box of dark chocolate comes with this monogram block!
Happy Valentine!

A is for Arellano, my family whom I Adore.... we are Affectionate and Attached to one another. Bound by Love we will Always be there for each other.

TFL!

Bite Me!

2009-02-06T13:42:00.002+08:00

Yes, please bite me and tell me I’m not dreaming……. I won, ooops , it should be WE WON! WE WON! Yeah, we’re so lucky to be picked as the winner for Twilight Challenge#1. Please see the announcement here:
and look at these lovely buttons courtesy of Manhandled

Aren’t they adorable? My DD just can’t wait for the package to come. Seems I can’t even touch them, huh! She wants all the 25 pcs. My very supportive DH immediately gave his UPS account to ensure that the buttons will reach us safe and fast, (LOL!)
Once again, Thank you to Jessica of anappleinhand.blogspot.com for coming up with twilight challenges ( #2 is up now, come on give it a try!) , to Manhandled who sponsored the RAK, to LB Scrapaholics for that extra PUSH, to Lee and Candy for the encouragement and of course, to my DH and kids who never cease to believe in what I can do and always give me reasons to scrap. Love you all!

Twilight Challenge #1

2009-02-02T11:45:00.005+08:00

Thanks to Jessica for coming up with this challenge and to Candy for informing us about this. Yes, Candy – the same person who infected Lee and subsequently infected me with the Twilight Fever.
Here are two Los I made on Sunday afternoon. Both are inspired by the colors of the book itself, and I also used some quotes from the book. This is my DD who in some ways resembles Bella.
Just like Bella she’s serious, shy, and intelligent person, with a very dry sense of humor, non- athletic, also stubborn though not as clumsy as she is. She also has a very private mind and not good in lying.

Twilight Obsessed!

2009-02-02T10:11:00.003+08:00

Yes, I’m one of them. At first it was DD who requested me to buy the book. I thought it’s simply a fad, because everyone in school has it. When I found out that co-scrapper Lee and Candy (whom I admire and idolize for being good in almost everything) are both hooked in Twilight, I started reading it, too! And as expected, I fell in love, and immediately bought the whole set. I gave it as a birthday gift to my DD and partly a gift to myself, (LOL!) Not only that, DH also bought the movie’s soundtrack and the Complete Illustrated Movie Companion! We also watched the movie (DH,DD and I) and all these things happened in December 2008. Yes, it’s true, scrapbooking took a backseat due to Twilight obsession. But the good news is, twilight also helped in bringing back my mojo! Watch out for it!

2009 – A Better Year…. A better ME….

2009-01-16T11:47:00.002+08:00

That’s my goal. I want some changes not only to myself but to everything around me.
I enjoyed the long vacation last December by just being HOME with DH and kids. Since my ‘yayas’ were on vacation I was full time on household and mommy chores and literally off from office workloads.

For 1st half of January, here are some of my “achievements”:

1. dispose old stuff – clothes, bags, toys, household items (not through yet)
2. do several crunches before breakfast (temporarily stop from biking due to weather condition)
3. limit my intake of rice to 1 cup each meal and maintain a balance diet
4. make my “playroom” clutter free!!!!
5. Bedtime at 9pm

I also had my Routinary Check up and Complete Blood Test. My Internist said I’m perfectly healthy as far as PE and blood tests are concerned. My Orthopedic Surgeon said there’s nothing to worry about my foot (Achilles Tendonitis) and true to his word I’m fine in just a week time. Well, my ENT won’t definitely give me a passing grade – my allergic rhinitis is at its peak. I’m going to see my OB-Gyne this weekend for annual pap smear and would ask about mammogram, too.

My health (as well as my kids' and DH's) is on top of my List – I believe that if we are healthy we can do more things together each day of our lives.
Scrapbooking temporarily took a backseat and hopefully my mojo will be back before this month ends.

Happy New Year to all!

Angels

2008-11-12T15:30:00.002+08:00

DH volunteered to take product shots of these “work of art” made by boys with Autism. The Autism Society of the Phils (Los Baños Chapter) is within the neighborhood and it’s a pleasant thing to learn about them being productive and creative as well.

They’re pretty excited about the Ad/poster/flyer which will be used in an international bazaar to be held at PICC. Yes, they’re participating and will showcase their products there. I’m really proud of them. I personally don’t know them, but upon seeing their finished projects I am deeply touched and I admire their parents who patiently guide them through life’s challenges.

Be an angel to someone else whenever you can, as a way of thanking God for the help your angel has given you. ~Quoted in The Angels' Little Instruction Book by Eileen Elias Freeman, 1994

I'm Tagged (again!)

2008-11-11T18:26:00.004+08:00

The Rules:
1. Link to the person who tagged you: Lee
2. Post the rules on your blog (this is what you are now reading).
3. List 6 random things about yourself.
4. Tag 6 people at the end of your post.
5. Let each person know they have been tagged and leave a comment on their blog.
6. Let the tagger know when your entry is up!

What’s up for me now? Well, here are 6 random facts:

1. I’m back to biking (with hubby) on weekends (at least 7kms within UPLB)
2. I’m learning how to drive!!! My hubby is indeed a very patient instructor.
3. I still can’t “scrap” due to heavy workloads, but my creativity is still in good use. (LOL)
4. I’m watching Prison Break Season 4 with hubby every Tuesday at CS9;
and Betty La Fea with my youngest DD every night (hehehe)
5. I have to read Twilight Series (ASAP) otherwise my eldest DD will “kill” me.
6. It’s heaven whenever I hear my DS play his classic guitar!

I'm tagging Cors, Timi, Issa, Chix, Ytet, Helga

Ola!!!

2008-11-11T18:18:00.002+08:00

From my last post, I was “hibernating” for 40 days. This time I “progressed”(????) for additional hundred days making it to 140 days of hibernation, lurking, etc. One thing though, my heart never stops loving.

Anyway, as what I’ve read from Lee’s blog (a fellow scrapper, and a new found friend)

“if it happened yesterday, it's old news. If it happened, two months ago, it's history.”

I guess, this is enough excuse for me not to go over those months I’ve been missing in action. Just find some time to visit LB Scrapaholics’ blog and it will give you a glimpse of what life has been for me in the past several months.

At least for now I was able to post this message and got a new background for my blog courtesy of thecutestblogontheblock.com

Hey, I still exist!!!

Driving Force

2008-06-27T16:55:00.000+08:00

Within the last 40 days, I was literally busy with my work and with my family. I seldom scrap, I don't even bother to organize my stuff from the scrapfest. But almost every single day my DD never failed to encourage me to scrap with her plus the "nagging" - "Hello! Were you able to make a layout?" or like this " Come on, let's join this contest!" from my co LB Scrapaholics. They are really my driving forces, they know when to push me! With all these things, I was able to make 7 LOs - 4 of which were entered into online challenges, 2 as output for our June mini EB, 1 made during scrapfest. I'll post the pics later. Not bad after all, isn't it!

Glad to be Back!

2008-06-27T16:31:00.000+08:00

Hi Everyone! Its been almost 40 days since I last posted here. I almost forgot my username and my password as well. Same holds true with my webshot account that I needed to request for my new password. Good thing there's no cobwebs here, yet! hehehe

Anyway, to get started, here's my latest LO (I'll post backwards to make things easier for me). I made this a couple of days ago in memory of my late sister - Ate Karen who died of cancer (Lymphoma) at the age of 29 in June 1993. I also entered this to Buzy Bee's Fancy Pants Challenge wherein as a requirement we need to incorporate the word "First" in the title and use FP papers, etc. I'm hesitant at first since I'm remembering my Ate and ironically used the FP PP Celebrate and About a Boy! Kaloka ba? Here's my LO:

Journaling: FIRST and foremost...
She’s my sister …. (by chance!)….
partner –in-crime, loyal roommate, accomplice, best bud, sidekick;
Then she became my friend (by heart!)…
confidant, a shoulder to cry on, mentor, somebody to turn to;
And finally she’s my angel (by fate)… for 15 years now.
When she died of cancer in 1993, I realized…
that life is short, but sweet for certain,
that love leaves a memory no one can steal,
that faith can withstand all pains,
and grief knits hearts in closer bonds than happiness ever can.
Until this day, I draw strength from her, ask for her guidance, and shares joy with her.
She will always be my precious Ate, my dearest Ayen.

I do thank God for she lived and had been a part of me.

Tagged Again!

2008-05-20T11:53:00.000+08:00

This time by Yvette and Candy. Here it goes...

Guidelines —

Link back to the person that tagged you.
Post these rules in your blog.
Share six unimportant things about yourself.
Tag six (6) people at the end of your entry.

1. I love to eat eggs - sunny side up, soft boiled, scrambled
2. I exercise only because I have to, not because I want to.
3. I always have a small bottle of rubbing alcohol and a pack of tissue in my bag
4. I'm basically shy (LOL!)
5. I'm makulit as in super kulet!
6. I don't really "explore" much.

Now, I am tagging Cors, Ritz, Helga, Ytet, Tam and Noy

Sanctuary

2008-05-15T06:45:00.000+08:00

My family and SIL's family went to La Luz in Laiya, San Juan, Batangas on May 12-13 to unwind and bond with each other. The kids (total of 8, aged 2-14) ) aren't only close with each other but real Bestfriends. We really had fun and picture taking almost take a backseat (very ironic for us) because the MARINE SANCTUARY was really beautiful, enchanting and exciting. I actually don't know exactly how to describe it. The kids identified each fish based on the movie "Finding Nemo". You would hear them saying, "Hey, here's Dory! and there's Gill!" We all had a wonderful "under the sea" experience - a memory to last a lifetime. Though I wasn't able to capture it in photos, it is captured in our hearts. Here are some of the pics we had. TFL!

Super NANAY

2008-05-11T12:52:00.000+08:00

Kung Super mom man ako, ito ay dahil may SUPER INAY ako. Kung anuman ako ngayon, ito ay dahil sa kanya. Tunay na walang katumbas ang halaga ng isang Ina - at totoo rin na kahit na maging gaano man katanda ang yong mga anak, ikaw pa rin ang nanay na patuloy na mag-aaruga sa kanila. Walang katapusang pagmamahal, pag-aalala maging sa mga apo.

SALAMAT po aking Inay- dahil sa inyo, ako ay naging mabuti ring ina. Di man ako mangalahati sa mga nagawa nyo para sa akin at sa aking pamilya alam ko na alam nyo na MAHAL na MAHAL ko kayo.

God Bless us all!

with my siblings

with her Apo/s

Have a Great Day SUPER MOMS

2008-05-11T08:19:00.000+08:00

Nanay, Inay, Mommy, Mama, Ma-der, Ma, Mie, Nay - any which way you are called still it's the sweetest word to hear. I'm fondly called 'NAY and Nanay by my kids. One time my kid asked, bakit ba "nanay"? Sa school kasi ako lang tumatawag ng "nanay"! I replied- it makes you UNIQUE!

I made a layout last week for the SK Challenge - "describe yourself".... which made me ponder for hours. Ang hirap pala! Here's what I made and I would like to dedicate this to all the moms i know. Only one characteristic wouldn't apply to all - SCRAPAHOLIC but it can be replaced as CREATIVE - because i believe all mothers are - from tying shoe laces, putting hair accesories, mixing n matching tops and shorts/pants, and putting kids in bed and preparing food!

reads:
a FULL TIME mother with no regular time off, works 24/7 and receives the highest salary - pure love!
with TENDER arms that hush my kids to sleep
with SLENDER body but an EXTRA LARGE heart always ready to forgive and understand
with GENTLE breast, once filled with the best milk in town
MOST AUTOMATED "appliance" in our household ( no need to push the buttons, no batteries required)
STRONG enough to bear all the pain
funny, witty, fabulous, cool... in the eyes of my youngest child -(LOL!)
a LOVING wife to hubby
a certified SCRAPAHOLIC whose ultimate stressbusters are pair of scissors, double adhesives, patterned papers and a good pic and finally,
someone who can take the place of all others for the sake of my family.

HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY!

SK Ultimate Scrapper Challenge

2008-05-06T22:14:00.000+08:00

I joined this contest at Scrappinkids together with other LB Scrapaholics with no idea on how the challenges will be conducted. They said, it will run for 3 days (May 2-4). I never thought that there will be more than 1 challenge in every single day. I ranked 5th out of 14 original challengers.

Day 1: Challenge #1: No photos (my weakness), coz I draw my inspiration from the picture, itself.
#2: multi-photo (another weakness) as in 10 photos (in sequence), 12x12 spread
Day 2: #1: mini album - since I made my 1st mini (simply B), I'm a li'l confident this time.
#2: 8 pps, 8 flowers, 8 buttons and the toughest part 8 word title. Whew! my title? LB Scrapaholics: Scrapbooking Beyond Dreams and Passion
#3: scraplifting (i'm not good at this) - my fastest LO ever - 20 mins + 10 mins uploading
#4: Blue/hubby - been carried away doing the LO, and was eliminated being the last to upload.

Honestly, I had fun! I was able to participate inspite of the fact that I'm working on Day 1, and hosting a birthday party for hubby on Day 2. The challenges tested my limits and it brought me out of my comfort zone. Once more, I received that same support from my family and co-LB Scrapaholics. Our motto lives on - one for all and all for one!

Here are my entries: 1 mini album, 6 12x12 in approximately 12 hours of scrapping. (I can't believe I've done it!) I'm also cleaning my mess in between challenges, (LOL!)

Welcome to My Playroom

2008-05-06T15:44:00.000+08:00

Issa Tagged me, and it took a while before I was able to respond. This is literally our playroom- with lots of toys, a place to have fun. You're free to make a mess while "playing" provided you'll clean it up afterwards and be sure to return all things back to its proper places. Eating is strictly prohibited.

Take a peek!

Notice that li'l table? It belongs to my youngest daughter-Pia, 6 yo. She "scraps", when I'm scrappin' (mostly 12x12), she suggests which paper/s to use, what color is more appealing, and even make sketches for me. (Sad to note, I'm not good in following sketches). She basically knows my stuff - where to find it and how to use it properly. At least, I know that when I'm gone my scrapbooks will be in good hands and the legacy lives on. I'll soon post her finished LOs.

This time I'm tagging: RITZ, HELGA and YTET

2 weeks = 2 LOs

2008-04-16T15:21:00.000+08:00

Been very busy with my job as hubby's assistant, but as I said before, scrappin' will never take a backseat. I'm sharing today my two LOs for the 1st half of April.
This is my entry to Lasting Impression's Cosmo Cricket Challenge. The title is courtesy of Cors.
Journaling: You both have the power to extract happiness from anything and laughin' out loud happens on a daily basis!
(Soy and Pia 2007)
The 2nd one is scraplifted from Pam (IttyBitty Gallery). Issa send me the link to her LO and asked me to make my own version. It was love at first sight (because I'm so fond of flowers) and I can't resist Issa's "request"! But I must say, Pam did it so well that I can't make it as beautiful as hers.

2008-04-05T20:40:00.001+08:00

I had fun trying this with my kids. Thanks Gaye, I got the link from your blog.

33 words

Speed test

My eldest daughter (12) and my son (11) are both faster than me. My youngest however, is proud to say that she only has 1 incorrect word. By the way, her speed? well she can type nine (9) words per minute and she's only six years old.

Proud Nanay & Tatay

2008-04-03T06:29:00.000+08:00

We neither push nor force our kids to excel in their studies. But we instill in their minds the value of education and the importance of giving their best shot, and maximizing their full potentials. We want them to enjoy school. They study their lessons not on specified time but in their own time, provided they will do whatever need to be done. They can play, surf the net, ym, right after arriving from school (but only for an hour or two) because we believe in the old adage "all work without play, makes you dull"! On Fridays and Saturdays they have unlimited time using the computers, playing with friends, or simply lying in their bed. Comes Sunday afternoon, we are all set for another week of studies and work and a li'l play, too. And look what we've got at the end of schoolyear.... ACADEMIC ACHIEVERS!

Simply B

2008-04-02T19:25:00.000+08:00

A Bagful of B for Bea

the cover was made in black and white materials to emphasize the current trend Bea is fond of as a tweener ("emo" )
pink bag chain - for innocence
multicolor edges - signify her colorful life and wonderful being

1. Best Foot Forward (EK Phrase Cafe)
Wondering what you will be when you grow up is something that every child has pondered at one time or another. My answer is simple: whatever you decide to do, i know that you will do it well. Some professions have more glamour than others and some don't pay a lot of money. But if you take pride in your work and commit to doing it right, you will be respected by your peers and you will be a success.

2. Bundle of Joy
cuddles, kisses, hugs, snuggles and love.... that'swhat baby girls are made of!

3. B is for Best
friend - who's always there to listen
playmate - who's happy to be with
schoolmate - to lean on and make learning a joyful journey
keeper of secrets - whom you can trust with all your heart

4. Bad Traits
which you somehow possess ('coz you aren't perfect anyway)... but need not be mentioned because we your family - acccepts you the way you are!

5. Big sister
that your siblings can look up to!

6. Butterfly
that signifies your transformation from baby to tweener.

7. experience BLISS ; BLOOM where you are planted and BELIEVE in yourself.

8. Bea (Random Facts)

lola's girl
sagittarian
consistent honor student
always in solitude
in search of good hair
seldom talks but texts at high speed

9. Best wishes

I made these wishes:

that your life is always full of the people you love
that your dreams are realized to their full potential
that your heart finds its way to your soulmate
that your eyes see all the things you wish to see
that your feet lead you down the right roads
that your hands make the world a better place
that your arms embrace all the world has to offer
that your mind always continue learning.

(author unknown)

This minibook is lovingly dedicated to my daughter Bea, on her graduation day (Elementary, 29 march 2008).

Special THANKS to Issa for taking good pics of the whole album. I gave this to my daughter few hours before grad rites and ask her to leave it at home. During graduation, Issa managed to take pics and presto, I was able to send it as an entry to Rekindled's Challenge.

I'm still here....

2008-04-02T19:04:00.000+08:00

Whew! It's been a month since I last posted. I almost forgot my password. It has been a very busy month for me. But inspite of that, scrapbooking didn't take a backseat. It's my ultimate way to de-stress, full body massage runs second only.

Anyway, for the last few weeks I was able to contribute 5 cards to Carmelite's fund raising acivity, 2 10x12 job orders, 1 12x12 for Scrapbytes challenge and a mini album (my 1st) for Rekindled Moments Challenge and at the same time my graduation gift to my eldest child and some simple tokens for their teachers.

Here they are:

My grad pic....almost two decades ago. No heavy make-up, just an eyeliner, baby powder and light lipstick. Sabi ko kasi, black and white naman di na makikita eyeshadow and blush-on, hahaha! If not for the scrapbytes challenge, di ko to magagawan ng LO. Thanks, Scrappinmoms! I used October afternoon papers here which I got from Master Iris' RAK.

BF's Prize

2008-04-02T19:00:00.000+08:00

Here's what "My Bestfriend" got from Scrapbukan.... my MM package is still on its way to the Philippines.

Thanks again, Ms. Sahrie!

Loot from Scrapbooks Hawaii

2008-03-02T15:41:00.000+08:00

These are the items "The Wave" caught from the sea of Hawaii (via Ayala Alabang)..... Once again, my sincerest thanks to Ms. Marissa for her generosity and also to Ms. Nette of My Little Attic for her warmth in accomodating us to her Attic so that I can carefully choose my bounty. Your kindness and unending support are highly appreciated.

The Real Thing

2008-02-29T07:54:00.000+08:00

Like the usual story - nagsa Batman na naman po si Inday. I made my LO for the Webster's Page Challenge of Lasting Impression just last night (around 3 hrs before the deadline). Like what Ria have said, pag nakita mo mga entries sa gallery, mag second thought ka talaga if mag upload ka pa ba. Ang gagaling talaga and you just cant imagine how could they have thought using those PP that way! But anyway, sabi ko nga ang main purpose ko is to scrap any pics that I want and preserve the memories behind it. So I uploaded my entry entitled "Play"! Tulad din ng dati- simple walang masyadong technique. And right after uploading, I sat on my scrap table again and revised my LO. This is what I really wanted it to be....entitled "Tampisaw sa Baha....(with consent!) . It was my hubby who gave the title since the time he took the pic (Sept 2006) but which I wasn't able to scrap. I also considered using "Rated PG or Parental Guidance"! Here is my entry:

and here's the real thing:

After Typhoon "Milenyo" we went around UPLB Campus. We felt so bad when we saw the damages - fallen trees (remember Acacia?), flashfloods running vigorously, broken footbridge, etc. But on the lighter side, my kids had fun seeing the running water along the road - it's clear, cold and inviting! and they asked me.... "Nay pwede ba magbangka bangkaan sa baha? Ang simple ng request di ba? Eh praning kasi ako sa dumi o possible disease they could get from there. But how can I resist a request for an opportunity to have fun and which I have enjoyed many times during my childhood days? So pumayag ang Nanay sa isang kondisyon.... Ako muna! If feel ko okay naman at di makati sa balat - GO GO GO! and our slippers go.... nagbangka bangkaan kami at nagsaya sa pag tampisaw sa baha! Another memory to last a lifetime!

Just got Lucky!!!!

2008-02-18T20:00:00.000+08:00

Maybe I was just so lucky that day and (last month, too!)....

Feb 16 - It was Issa who sent me an SMS telling "The Wave" won in SBH's AL Challenge. I was so happy. It's my first ever "spread" and I'm really not that confident yet with stamping ( I almost cried when i failed to do some heat embossing). My hubby immediately offered to drop by at MLA before proceeding to the airport because he knew how much I wanted to attend the EB but instead chose to stay with him on that day. I declined to his offer, and settled for texting Issa and Timi to give some more updates. Mahirap na, baka pag nakita ko goodies sa MLA malimutan ko na kasama ko nga pala si DH or worse magpaiwan ako at di na sya maihatid sa airport. hahaha!

On our way home from the airport, Issa called up and said " Congrats ate Liezl" sabi ko "Hello? kanina pa yan ah!"
"Ate, nanalo ka ulit! Saan? Sa Scrapbukan's Noteworthy Challenge! Whaaaat? "My Bestfriend" took the grand prize.

That time di ko na talaga ma explain feelings ko! I wish hubby was beside me! He's always been the first to know! Tapos ayun sunud-sunod na SMS from the rest of LB girls - blowout daw kasi I won P1500 and P2000 worth of goodies + MM package in just one day. Well, sabagay, nabubusog talaga kami sa papel, buttons,flowers, rub-ons, inkpads etc etc. hehehe

Thank you Ms. Marisa of Scrapbooks Hawaii and Ms. Sahrie of Scrapbukan for your generosity, for your unending support to the Pinay Scrappers and for giving us the chance to take part in the challenges.

Small but....

2008-02-12T17:36:00.000+08:00

Just finished my cards as entries to MLA Card Challenge using one KI Lace Cardstock only. I never thought it would be that hard! The cards are small so I said it would be easy and won't take much time to do. For several times I sat on my scrap table, started working on it then stand and left it undone. Naku! naluma si Batman! di kinaya ng powers ko. Halos nawalan na ko ng pag-asa na matatapos ko pa. But the interest, the urge and the "challenge' were all there. I admire the MDs (Chix and Ritz) kasi nung pinakita nila sa akin mga entries nila ang gaganda, very intricate ang designs at parang ang dali lang gawin. So I waited for the right time, yung totally relax ako at wala ni katiting na pressure to finish them. And here they are.... small, simple but made with my heart in it.

I used metallic water colors and MM scrapbook shimmer in birthday and thank you cards respectively. For The V-card I just put some blings and add the ATB brads (love) mounted on a metal plate. TFL!

Feel the Love

2008-02-10T15:09:00.000+08:00

It's really the month of love as in " I'm head over heels! " I've been scrappin' (one of the things I love most) since day 1 and from my last post I was able to make my entries to some challenges. Joining challenges make me scrap better, give me chance to try something else and at the same time lessen my "backlogs"! I basically scrap only the pictures that has memorable stories behind it. If nothing fits or If I think it will only stress me instead of making me happy and will consume much of my spare time, I automatically drop the idea of joining. I always prefer to scrap at my heart's delight! Here are my entries to scrapbookshawaii's autumn leaves challenge and scrapbukan's noteworthy challenge:

Soy and Pia never had a dull moment. Both of them find joy in all they do no matter how simple or complicated it could be. As I watch them play, giggle and laugh I wish that they continuously enjoy each other's company through the years.

If you love someone...set her free! Easier
said than done, right?
She's my first born, and now at her pre-teen's stage
there's a lot more things to learn for both of us.
her music is noise to me,
her hairstyle is not what I wanted,
her fashion sense is.....
and the list goes on...

Yes, she's mine.... but she isn't me! She has her own identity and she is entitled to a certain freedom. As her mom, I should be there only to support, to guide and to help.
I learned that letting go doesn't require strength, it simply needs deeper understanding.
I love her, the same way I undestand her and I must let her go!

" This day I'll marry my friend,
the one I laugh with,
dream with,
live for,
love...
Our friendship we so cherish,
our love we so treasure;
be it forever, a path that knows no end."

These were written in our wedding invitation and these remain to be true until now, 13 years after. Looking forward to a lovelier friendship ahead.

Stressbuster!

2008-02-02T13:11:00.000+08:00

Hello everyone! Hi! February. When Doc Ritz dropped by our house last night, we're both exhausted from the day's work. And we both feel we need to unwind. We talked about our favorite topic - scrapbooking, of course. When she left, I was in scrapping mode already. I get my latest LO in 12x12 acrylic and started doing the other side. In minutes, I'm done (after all, it's a matter of cut and paste only). When I texted Doc Ritz that I'm done, she replied - "Batman strikes again!" Looking at my finished LO, I felt better and refreshed.

By the way, I want to thank Dianne Miraballes. My kids' pic is actually a digital layout made by her. She's really good at this and I admire her. Actually I envy her. I wish I can digiscrap, too. TFL!

Comfort Zone

2008-02-01T07:03:00.000+08:00

Clean, simple and "rushed" - well, I guess this is my scrapbooking style. I know I have to try something else, but most of the time I ended up with my comfort zone. My creativity ignites only when time is of the essence.... a typical "Bahala na si Batman"! Just like yesterday, I made my entries for Rekindled Moments (early morning after preparing my kids to school) and the other one for Scrappinkids (after kids' bedtime). These end my January.... 2 LOs for us to keep, 11 as gifts, 20 invitation cards and 1 birthday card.

Title and Journalling: Take note... she's too shy...and it's ironic for Pia, 'coz she's basically confident, assertive and always ready to "show-off"!

For this one, the hardest part is taking pic of the LO due to the acrylic sheet. Thank GOD I have hubby around. Though he's too busy, he made extra effort to help me with this. TFL!

January Output

2008-01-28T19:33:00.000+08:00

It has been a very busy month for me - a lot of paperworks and beating the deadlines (businesswise). BUT, Yes, I was able to sneak in to my playroom and do some scrappin'. Yet I was not able to make a single LO as my own. All were given away as a gift. But at least I'm happy and the recipients were happy, too. On Jan 1st I made 0ne 10x12 for my in laws and few days after a 12x12 acrylic for my hubby's bestfriend/kumpare. I wasn't able to take pictures of it. As of this time, here are my finished LOs.... all were simple ones since I'm always running out of time.

8x8 for our business colleagues based in Singapore, 6x6 acrylic for my former officemates/friends' birthdays (all in 1 day), invitation cards for my daughter's 6th birthday and another card for Doc Ritz. I used metallic watercolor here.

"Fruits" of Acacia

2008-01-28T19:18:00.000+08:00

These are the "goodies" I got from Jane of Rekindled Moments as prize for the Scrapbytes Challenge (my entry was entitled Acacia). Cors and I picked up the items in San Pablo City (also in Laguna) before visiting our orthodontist. We were so excited because we didn't expect to receive a lot of nice stuff. Jane was so generous indeed. We even have second thought if we'll push through with our appointment with Dr. Juris Tiu or we'll go back home and start scrapping, hahaha! Thanks again.

The Bounties

2008-01-04T15:08:00.000+08:00

Scrapbytes - April (from april Lim herself)

Scrapfest -from the ever Supportive Store Owners:

These are the material things I earned from joining Scrappin' Moms Challenges. But these are just the icing on the cake.... what count most are the layouts I made for my family a treasure to keep for all time, friendship that is more than a blessing, the realization that I have that certain skills to do something that other's would recognize, and the wisdom that God has given me to appreciate all these GIFTS.

Thank You so much.

Give credits where it's due

2008-01-04T12:33:00.001+08:00

My world of scrapbooking expanded when LB Scrapaholics attended the 1st Scrapfest in May 2006. It was the first time I learned about the "acid-free" thing. Joanne Yap welcomed us with warmth and even invited us to her house with open arms (pls. take note it's our first meeting). From then on, the hobby turned into passion, the stuff keep on piling and my pocket became empty and empty and empty, hehehe! On top of these things, I developed my craft, tried joining other contests and made a lot of friends. And most of all, my numerous layouts which my family will cherish forever.

I wish to express my gratitude to Scrappin' Moms - for appreciating my work and for believing in my capacity to do simple yet somehow impressive layouts. Allow me to present my winning LOs as far as Scrappin' Moms is concerned and some of the prizes I have received. May in one way or another, these serves as an inspiration to others to keep on doing layouts to their heart's delight (without pressure, of course). I joined contests not to win but to test my capabilities and to be able to finish one layout at a time. As I have always been saying, winning is just an added bonus.

Here are my entries to Scrapfest - Siblings (Sept 2006 - Grand Prize) and Bliss (May 2007- 3rd prize)

Scrapbytes - Simply Irresistible (April 2007) and Acacia (Nov 2007) - please take note I have a co-winner to both challenges:

and for the Prizes????? Please wait for my next post.....

Hello 2008

2008-01-02T16:08:00.000+08:00

Praise God....2007 has been a great year for us and we look forward to 2008. May God continue to give us strenght, wisdom and serenity. I thank Him for making my family healthy and happy. May we always be worthy of His love. God Bless us all.

Btw, I was able to "scrap" on Jan 1st (after breakfast) ... one simple layout (10x12) for my in-laws but it made my day. Hope this is an indication that I will be able to make more los this year. Happy New Year!!!

A New Baby for Us

2007-12-26T22:41:00.000+08:00

Finally, after a long wait..... Big Bro has a new sister.....

Alden handed me a white envelope and ask everyone of us to guess what's inside. A chocolate bar? , scrap materials?, hankies? No.... belt???? ooops..... a strap? What for? He led us to the other corner and there I found a box...inside the box is something that exactly looks like this,

Yes, Alden's Nikon D70 now has D40x as its sibling cum partner in capturing memories that our family will treasure forever. I was overwhelmed and I don't know what to say. All that I know, there'll be more pictures, more layouts and more happiness for us.

UPLB Nativity

2007-12-25T09:16:00.000+08:00

Upon entering the University of the Philippines at Los Baños (Laguna) you'll see this lifesize nativity set.... and it is indeed a sight to behold..... You can feel warmth and tranquility just by staring at those wood carvings (haven't confirmed if it was made in Paete, Laguna).

Maligayang Pasko muli!

Christmas Countdown

2007-12-21T22:16:00.000+08:00

On Dec 18 my kids started opening our christmas presents for them, with hopes that some of the items on their wishlist will be realized. We inculcate in their young minds that not all wishes do come true....some are not given because it's not meant for them and most of the time there's something better than what they wished for. Other times, we intended not to give in to their desires because we believe it's not worth the money and we can find better alternatives for the same price. But there are times, we follow their heart's desire but it is thoroughly discussed and "package" includes some certain rules and/or conditions. If it's a gadget, the do's and dont's + the responsibilities that goes along with it are explained and agreed upon.

They excitedly opened their 1st gift..... only to find out it's not on their wishlist...... but look at the smile on their faces ....

Maligayang Pasko

2007-12-20T06:06:00.000+08:00

May the true spirit of Christmas dwell in our hearts. Love, Peace and Joy to everyone from my family to yours.

CCX 07

2007-12-17T18:19:00.000+08:00

For SE's christmas card exchange, here's what I have made for Julie Kelly (USA). The post office personnel told me that delivery will take 10 days (classified as "special delivery"). So I'm expecting it to arrive at Julie's mailbox by this week. I'm planning to send this also via e-mail just to be sure that Julie will receive at least the pictures of the card especially made for her on Christmas Day.

2007-12-17T14:29:00.000+08:00

Classy and Fabulous...

Bea at 12, is as shy as ever. For us to have a good
pic of her, it needs to be a stolen shot or a candid
one. It's always a challenge for her father on how to
trick her and have a picture taken. Nevertheless,
she's beautiful. And it will always be a pleasant
endeavor to have a classy and fabulous shot like this
one.

Humdrum

2007-12-17T13:35:00.000+08:00

Been idle, passionless and uninspired for almost a month. I realized that my "magic" is my hubby. I was'nt able to create even a single LO while he was away for 3 weeks (1st time na ganun katagal since we've been married for more than 12 years). Frequent ym and phonecalls didn't suffice. But when he was about to be home, I was able to make my entry to Scrapbytes and on the following morning another entry for ATB challenge. Both were submitted few minutes before the deadline. Few days after, I made the card for CCX 07. Here's the first one:

Hidden Journaling: This Acacia tree can be found at the entrance of UPLB. For centuries, it towers with might and strength. On September 28, 2006 this tree was uprooted due to super typhoon Milenyo that hit our country.

It crushed our hearts to see the acacia devastated and almost lifeless, kissing the ground. Every time we passed by, we pay it a tribute and little by little it started to gain his life back again. Leaves started to grow. My kids were so excited – “Buhay na ulit sya!”

Now a year after, it is mighty and strong again. It tried to renew its life and live the best it can right there from the ground where it was lying down.

The Acacia will always be a significant reminder especially to my children that no matter what life brings you it can be carried well. That as long as there’s life, hope will also be there. As long as you believe, with faith in your heart – miracles will happen.

Late Bloomer

2007-11-20T13:55:00.000+08:00

Among the LB Scrapaholics, I'm the late bloomer as far as blogging is concerned. For more than two months, Issa and the rest of the group keep on "nagging" me to give it a try until one day Issa "lose" her patience and personally made this blog for me. But being so preoccupied by other duties, it took almost a month to finally post an article . I apologized for those who paid time to visit my blog and read nothing from me. Wag po sana kayo madadala na muling dumalaw sa blog ko.

Salamat Issa sa walang sawa na "pangungulit at pangungumusta" - "how's your blog?, nag post ka na?" and for spending time to make it a blog worth to be visited by my "kalaro". Now I am proud to call it mine.

My first ever blog!

2007-11-19T19:17:00.000+08:00

This is my first time to blog and i want to share my latest layout...