Just a Girl with a Camera

lost in funk

2012-01-08T08:58:00.002-08:00

I have been MIA for a while now. I am in a funk. No creative spirit. No eye catchy work. Just plain empty. I have let almost every single aspect of my life go.. and for no particular reason. I'm not depressed. I am not locked in a room somewhere. I just lack engergy and my spunk.

The holidays came and went just like most years. I now have a little techy boy on my hands complete with an iPad and DS. (mommy is ALLOWED to borrow said iPad with permission of course!) I turned 30 without much fuss.. low key and simply stated.

I have goals to be better this year and find what REALLy makes ME happy. No more of this.. "I can't do this because----" or "i'll wait til ----". Even though a week into the new year I am slow at the process, I have a glimmer of hope I can overcome my weaknesses and find the peace I need... change WiLL happen.

Memory Works GDT!~

2011-11-03T07:50:00.003-07:00

Hey Everyone! I am trying to re-group from a few days without power here in pa....it was a looong, cold few days. I am tyring to get back on track, so stay with me!

I am happy to annouce that I have been selected as Guest Design Team Member for Memory Works this month!! I am sooo excited and CAN NOT WAIT to play with my kit!!!!

Please take some time to visit the blog and see what I've been up to! (http://www.memoryworksblog.blogspot.com/)

I will be at Craft/Shop/ Crop on Nov 12 here in the Christmas City of Bethlehem for an all day crop. I will be having a few premade cards and cash and carry items!!! Please come crop with us!

Also check out Scrapbookings Inn; Nite Owls, Naught or Nice, and All I want for Christmas classes are up!

On the Mommy home front... I would like to say congrats to the Saucon Valley Youth Sports Flag B team for a great season... Here is my favorite little linebacker at homecoming!!!!!!!

Scrappin Chics

2011-10-25T07:52:00.004-07:00

Here is my second layout for Scrappin Chics! Please stop by and enter to win some great prizes!!!!

Post #200!

2011-10-01T17:15:00.000-07:00

Today is my 200th blog posting. Yippie!!!!

As I had mentioned before, I will be doing a little giveaway!!!!! Please comment with your name and email for a chance to win a few of my favorite little things!!! (i am keeping it a surprise but i know you will love it!)

I want to share a little news with you too! I am now on the Scrappin Chics DT! How cool is that!?! (www.scrappinchicschallenge.blogspot.com)

Here is the card I made using Bo Bunny!!! Please check out the blog and enter to win some great prizes!!!

2011-08-24T09:34:00.002-07:00

Here is my most recent LO for http://www.scrappinchicschallenge.blogspot.com/. The challenge this month is banners. Oh and of course I had to use Echo Park!!!

2011-08-09T11:07:00.004-07:00

If any of you are a follower of Donna Downey's blog (http://www.donnadowney.typepad.com/) you have been seeing all the awesomeness going on with her Collage Monday. As of right now I have started a few pages in both the Collage Monday book and in my own Inspiration Journal! I also have a K and Company Smash Book on order! WOW I am going to be a busy girl! Here are the 1st 2 pages of my collage book! Look for more projects this week! I will be doing a giveaway soon when I reach my 200th post!!!

2011-07-30T10:32:00.007-07:00

I really wish I had the time to blog more. This summer is going by way to fast, and lately I have been reading and crafting more...which makes me HAPPY! Here are a few of the new projects I am working on... I did FINALLY pull out my Donna Downey Inspiration Journal. I think this is my new *bliss*

This month I was the Guest Design Team member at Scrappin Chics Challenge www.scrappinchicschallenge.blogspot.com here is one of my layouts this month... Theme Songs. I {heart} scotty for this song.This LO was for Memory Works July Challenge using Red, White and Blue! And finally look forward to next month.... well you will just have to come back and see what i am creating!!! i *might* have done a little damage at CKC!

Happy 4th of July!~

2011-07-02T09:27:00.002-07:00

I've been a bad blogger, but a good scrapper!!! The Matey house is heading on vacation! I hope to hit up a couple of LSS along the way... shhh don't tell the boys, I plan on trading for ice cream!

Here is a quick card to add to my pile for OWH: I used Bo Bunny Liberty and a card sketch from their blog! Enjoy!

Winners!

2011-05-13T17:26:00.003-07:00

I have picked 2 winners for the Mother's Day Blog Hop.. sorry a little late but as most of you know, blogger was down for much of today.....

Winner #1 is number 12.... The Digi Street Stamp Shop

who wins this....

Winner #2 is.. number 36 Babe O'mara

who wins this...

Please email me your addresses. Any prizes not claimed in 1 week will be "recycled"!

I spent the afternoon at a LSS making cards for Operation Write Home! I was able to reach my personal goal of 50 cards donated this time around. I need to get on the ball and start for our next donation. I hope you all enjoyed the Mother's Day blog hop! Thanks Maryann

Mother's Day Blog Hop.. Final Day

2011-05-11T13:48:00.000-07:00

I had some unexpected work "issues" this week, therefore I have not been 100%. I did spend some time yesterday to make a few cards for our event this Friday...

Does crafting really improve your mood? I think so! Tomorrow I will be posting the winner of my giveaways, so stay tuned! Happy Day!

Blog Hop Day 2

2011-05-09T12:23:00.003-07:00

Remember those jeans that seen better days from yesterday's post?

Well I used the Accu-Cut at a LSS, sprayed with Tattered Angels Glimmer Mist and ....

Made a cut little card! This is going into my pile for Operation Write Home! We are cropping at MLPA, Quakertown PA on Friday May 13 to send cards to heros serving overseas! I personally hope to send 50 cards this time around! I hope you are enjoying the blog hop as much as I am!

Jen R- www.memorieswithjen.blogspot.com
Theresa ~ www.thescrapbookingqueen.com
Anita- - www.anitaandbugs.blogspot.com
Kathy - http://kathyand3kids.blogspot.com/
Debbie Wilson http://craftydeb-ddscrafts.blogspot.com/
Tanya www.ScrappyScavenger.blogspot.com
Linda: http://www.thefruitofmyhands.blogspot.com/
Nancy Owen http://www.fancywithnancy.blogspot.com/
Maryann www.justagirlwithacamera-mm.blogspot.com <---- you are here!
Martha Galvez http://pattisscrapingtime.blogspot.com/ <--- Go say HI to Martha!
Kimmarie Baker http://kimmarieskorner.blogspot.com/
Carlene www.misspinkcricut.blogspot.com
Amy http://www.lovetocrop.com/

Mother's Day Blog Hop!

2011-05-07T18:41:00.008-07:00

Welcome to the Mother's Day Blog Hop and Happy Mother's Day to all you Mom's!!!

I actually have a few projects and challenges/ ideas to share with you over the next few days...

First, my challenge to you is to "Scraplift" yourself! I notice that I do this WAY too often LOL! In fact, I have used the same sketch several times...but I just love it way too much!

like...

Stay tune for tomorrow when I use THESE...on a page! It's going to SUPER cute!

I am also giving away a RAK AND a little Blog Candy (I will reveal your treat on Tuesday!) So please become a follower of my blog and comment each day for your chance to WIN!

Blog Hoppers:

Jen R- www.memorieswithjen.blogspot.com <------- start

Shannon-- www.purplelionpaper.com/blog

Theresa ~ www.thescrapbookingqueen.com

Anita-- www.anitaandbugs.blogspot.com

Kathy - http://kathyand3kids.blogspot.com/

Debbie Wilson http://craftydeb-ddscrafts.blogspot.com/

Tanya www.ScrappyScavenger.blogspot.com

Linda: http://www.thefruitofmyhands.blogspot.com/

Nancy Owen http://www.fancywithnancy.blogspot.com/

Maryann www.justagirlwithacamera-mm.blogspot.com <---- hey that's me

Martha Galvez http://pattisscrapingtime.blogspot.com/ <----- go see Martha next

Kimmarie Baker http://kimmarieskorner.blogspot.com/

Carlene www.misspinkcricut.blogspot.com

Amy http://www.lovetocrop.com/ <------finish

Have a Great Mother's Day!

NSD!

2011-05-07T09:02:00.004-07:00

Happy National Scrapbooking Day!!!

I am crafting between the screams here at the house... 3 little monsters running around being silly! I hope you can take a few minutes to scrap today!

I wanted to do a little giveaway here on my blog, for every project you complete, comment on the location or link (ie your blog, facebook) and I will put your name for a little RAK from me!

Happy Scrapping!

Stop by tomorrow for the Mother's Day Blog Hop!!!

Happy Inspirational Scrappin

2011-05-01T13:23:00.002-07:00

Here is my Layout for the month of April at HIS. I LOVE Echo Park...

and this little boy!

Rebirth

2011-04-23T18:28:00.003-07:00

I have started to think alot lately about who I want to be. I think with Easter, spring and flowers growing there is hope that things will change. I want to be better; to grow as a person and for my family; but sometimes it means setting boundries, using the "n" word.. NO, and putting myself first. I want to be better. My husband said something the other day that hit... "if momma ain't happy, no bodies happy".. I'm pretty sure he was being a wise ass but... I'll take it. I am excited to celebrate Easter this year and have spent some time speaking with Raymond's preschool teacher about God and Jesus... and how Raymond wants to be Catholic because he associates that with church. I feel bad that he has not been to church and vow that soon I will take him to OUR church. I want him to know Gods love, to go to Sunday school like I did and have those feelings of peace. I have faith that things are looking up.. the clouds just have to pass.... and this is life.

Now truthfully all this babble maybe the glass or two of wine I've had this evening.. but its much needed. Easter is in full swing here! I can't wait for tomorrow!

Join Us!

2011-04-07T10:10:00.001-07:00

I will be joining a great bunch of crafty ladies for this hop! Maybe even a RAK or blog candy coming your way!!!

Back at it!

2011-03-24T10:39:00.004-07:00

Ok this week I really wanted to spend some time in the craft room.. I was on blogs looking for ideas/challenges ect...

Here is a card for Bo Bunny:

And a Layout for them:

And for Memory Works:

I hope to keep up the scrappin.. life has just taken over right now!!!

Snow days = craft days!

2011-01-31T17:09:00.008-08:00

Ok it seems every week we are getting a snow storm here in PA.. therefore I have had no desire to go anywhere.. hense alot of free time scrapping! Here are a few of the layouts and cards I have created!!

These projects are part of my Layouts with Maryann at Scrapbookings Inn. Please call the store to sign up!!!

Memory Works Resolution Challenge... Warning no Victoria Secret bikini girls were harmed in the making of this Layout! LOL

I hope everyone is having fun scrapping!!

2011-01-11T12:12:00.004-08:00

After a busy holiday, I am ready to get rolling on blogging again. Christmas was wonderful, birthday.. well just another year older.. and the New Year.. It's time to be productive again. I had a Thirty One party on Friday and I am super excited to get all my goodies in! Thanks to Taryn for being our I.C. !

I have been trying to get back into scrapbooking and crafting in general. I feels like work to me these days. Maybe its winter.. who knows. I did finish one layout so far for MLPA's layout of the month contest... maybe I will get around to making a few more soon.

SNOW is making its' way to PA tonight! I went to the dollar store and stocked up on spray bottles... yes spray bottles... add water and food coloring and ... Instant snow paint!!! My yard is multicolored! Working for the next several hours.. I hope I don't have a code white!

A Dozen Days to Christmas, Day 3

2010-12-15T17:56:00.006-08:00

Ok so today we went to my mom's (Oma's house) to make cookies. She had premade sugar cookie dough.. and she is not sharing the recipe... for us to cut out. Then we made pretzels with M&M's on top. Now don't judge here.. but I didn't know the bowl sitting on the table was for our recipe.. so I ate them while we were cutting.. and ate them all! I rushed to Rite Aide to pick up more. LOL No wonder I am wearing a MoMo until after the holidays. Then we finished up with Peanut Chocolate Chip cookies. I was covered in flour by the end of this cookie bake! I had a blast and can't wait until next time we bake at Oma's!

A Dozen Days to Christmas, Days 1&2 !

2010-12-14T10:29:00.006-08:00

I wanted to start a tradition in our home so... A Dozen Days to Christmas was born... and we sure do love cookies! I started yesterday and I hope to make a batch of treats everyday until Christmas.

Day 1

Yesterday was Potato Chip Cookies.. Thanks to Patti for the recipe!

Day 2

Today was my ALL TIME FAVORTIE, No Bake Oats! I am sure another batch or 2 will surface before the end of the month! I don't think I can save some for Gee Gee... might have to make her a special batch!

I hope everyone is taking time to enjoy their holiday season!

Facebook Contest!

2010-12-03T10:18:00.003-08:00

Hey to all you facebookers out there! Please go to Echo Park Paper and "like" them. Place my name (Maryann Matey) in the comment section for a chance for me to win some great prizes!!!

Echo park has become one of my new favorties!!!

here:

( yes infinity is spelled wrong, but i fixed it.. can you tell i was scrappin at 2am again)

Thanks Everyone!!!

Gobble Gobble!

2010-11-25T05:16:00.002-08:00

Happy Thanksgiving! I am truely blessed! I love sitting here knowing that my two boys are safe in their warm beds (snooring) and that I have the best little family a gal could ask for! Be safe! Happy Thanksgiving and Happy Black Friday shopping!

Christmas Pictures!~

2010-11-21T09:16:00.003-08:00

I LOVE how our family Christmas pictures turned out this year!!! Thanks To Beth Ravier for some awesome shoots of our little family!

Class Monday Night!

2010-11-16T07:11:00.005-08:00

Hey everyone! I am teaching Fall Layouts at Scrapbookings Inn this Monday night at 6pm. $18 for (1) 1 page LO and (1) 2 page layout. * you will have extra paper for a card or another LO!

Hope to see you there!

Donna Downey would be proud!

2010-11-02T10:56:00.003-07:00

Ok I was looking at this tote for AWHILE! I finally just "did it".. I am SO happy with the results!!! Lots of paint, glimmer mist, gesso went into this project!!! I might just have to make another..

Happy Halloween!

2010-10-31T18:14:00.001-07:00

horrible blogger

2010-10-25T08:56:00.007-07:00

Ok i've been a horrible blogger lately... I have not felt the urge to craft recently.. all the projects have felt "forced." Maybe my printer having no ink for pictures is the problem... who knows. I HAVE been enjoying fall!!! He are some of our favorites! which will end up on layouts when i feel like it..

now nothing says fall like Pumpkin Ice cream right? I was doubtful.. however this brave little boy got me HOOKED! I think I see a trip to Confetti Cafe this week (Main St Bethlehem) It literally is one of the best ice creams I have ever tasted!

Girl Time

2010-10-11T18:22:00.002-07:00

The past few nights, I have had some great conversations with some awesome ladies. First, Saturday night I went out with a friend to a movie and to grab a quick drink. We have alot in common (Looooong story haha) and talked about who we used to be. Young women trying to please men, rather than please our selves. We allowed them to "control", if you will, us. We wanted them to "love us" rather than loving ourselves. Not that these men didn't have good qualities, but maybe they were young too and lacked knowlege of how love is supposed to be too. As we grew, so did what love meant to each of us, and those relationships didn't last. Now, we both have come to understand that love does take work and trust, and without that you are doomed and set up to fail. That being said, we laughed, gossiped and did what girls do.. cause trouble! On Sunday night I taught a class at Scrapbookings Inn. It was a small class with young hot mommies! HAHA (we all have kids under 4) We talked about our bodies and how we gotta rock what we got. Our hubby's don't care so why should we! Not that loosing few wouldn't be nice, but is a FEW extra pounds really that big of a deal? I mean I am not about to stop my Starbucks to fit into a smaller size nor will I give up cupcakes, ice cream ect ect ect.... We have come to terms with the fact that if you are happy then by all hell eat your damn ice cream and be happy with it. If you want to be a size 6 and starve yourself or work out early in the morning instead of sleeping... then by all hell go for it. *by the way we all chose ice cream*

I hope that each of you is as lucky as I am to have some awesome friends, both old and new, who challenge you, who love you, and who know when to tell you to shut the hell up!

Fall is here class!

2010-10-03T18:14:00.006-07:00

Hey local scrappers! Oct 10 at 6pm come to my Fall is Here class ($15) at Scrapbookings Inn. We will make the following: a treat bag, a card and this CUTE mummy box!

I am also taking orders if you are interested in Mummy boxes. $4 a piece and can be customized with handles, bows and eye colors if interested!!!

Where did this month go??

2010-09-25T17:46:00.005-07:00

It seems like this month is just flying by! Preschool, EMS, Crisis, family time .. when does it end! HA!

Here are some of the crafty goodness I have made in the past few weeks with all the new Memory Works goodies! I will be teaching 2 classes at Scrapbookings Inn so check their website for info as well as make n takes and vendoring at their all day crop Oct 2!

"The beautiful thing about learning is that no one can take it away from you." B.B. King

2010-09-07T18:08:00.002-07:00

Up for a challenge? Head over to Happy Inspiration Scrappin, www.happyinspirationalscrappin.com to participate!

my end of summer..

2010-09-06T12:25:00.012-07:00

i have been a horrible blogger lately.. i have been trying to squeeze all of those end of summer memories in!

like...

and of course the allentown fair to see yummy keith urban...

and our last iron pigs game (my new favorite picture)...

plus we had to be reneck... demolition cars and lawn mowers @ the west end fair

we also went to Watkins Glen NY apple picking... and i made some crafty goodies.. but that will have to wait for my next post!

2010-08-30T11:52:00.002-07:00

Aug Sketch Challenge at Memory Works... :LOVE: how it turned out!!!

join me!

2010-08-19T11:34:00.002-07:00

Hey to all you locals! If you are free this Saturday, stop by the Saucon Valley Community Day from 9a-1p to join me in a FREE make n take! Might even have a little gift for anyone signing up to hold a Memory Works class!!!!

on sale today!!!

2010-08-13T08:27:00.001-07:00

please check out the website www.mysimplestories.com this is a wonderful new product line!!!! GREAT for back to school!!

Glimmer Book

2010-08-05T12:31:00.005-07:00

I am SO in love with this idea!!! I always seem to fall in love with products I already own, and I can NEVER remember what colors I have of anything... SO....Glimmer Mist Book! I have my Making Memories and Stickles books drying now!!! Oh the possibilites!

working like a dog...

2010-07-28T06:15:00.002-07:00

I think I have met my quota at work the last 4 days to fill a year with of people with mental health/ substance abuse problems! I love my job and I am so blessed to work with a great bunch of ladies... and Chuck. Thanks to them it makes our jobs easier.

CKC this week.... and a date with the husband this weekend... can't wait!

getting crafty with my bad self!

2010-07-20T13:48:00.004-07:00

I made a few things today...

The July Challenge 2 for MW creative studio. The sketch is base off July's PageMaps!!!

And a Card for a sketch at BoBunny's Blog....

I just ordered 244 pictures from www.scrapbookpictures.com! I am so excited to use them all for a benefit crop at MLPA Aug 7. Call the store for info! 215 529 9194!

New Simple Stories!

2010-07-18T18:16:00.003-07:00

I am so excited for this new line!!! Before I know it, Raymond will be starting kintergarden!!! CRY!!!! Please take a minute to visit www.mysimplestories.com to get more sneak peeks! Email me if you are interested in a kit for your favorite student!!

oops!

2010-07-07T10:59:00.000-07:00

oops! i forgot to post a LO i did the other day! i can not get over how big my little boy is getting!

HOT! HOT! HOT!

2010-07-07T10:49:00.003-07:00

we are suffering through a heat wave here in PA. we are setting records! i like it hot, but this is too hot! i feel as if i must retreat to the basement and create something.... but all 3 kids are sleeping (mine+ 2 nieces). mackenzie came to my house dressed in her bikini and flip flops on the wrong feet "mam lets go water swimming. i so pretty.." so off to the kiddie pool by 830. poptarts had to come first.. since her mommy FORGOT my iced coffee from dunkin...

2010-07-05T16:29:00.002-07:00

Home from a great 4th of July Weekend in Hershey... and playing in our yard! It is HOT here in Pa. My car is saying 102!

Now for a winner for my giveaway! Random number generator told me 17! Terri~ please email me your address (faceoffreckles@rcn.com) and I will mail you your minibook!

It's Christmas In July!

2010-07-02T07:43:00.010-07:00

Welcome to my blog for the Memory Works Christmas in July Blog Hop! I am so excited that we are half way to Christmas! I keep telling poor Raymond that Santa is watching him.... I think he is a skeptic...

For my giveaway project, I made a mini book using Creative Imaginations! (These products were still available for purchase last time I checked!) To win this prize, leave your name and email address in a comment and become a follower. I only ship in the U.S.

I chose not to title this book, because I thought the winner might want to add their own title.

I hope you take the time to visit all the other blogs on this hop!

The next blog is Luisa at http://www.creativedesignsbyluisa.com/.

If you get lost along the way (like me!) head back to Sue's at http://www.scribblelittlepaperthings.blogspot.com/.

While you are blog hopping, stop over at the Memory Works blog http://www.memoryworksblog.blogspot.com/ and the Simple Stories Blog at http://www.mysimplestories.typepad.com/

Enjoy your 4th of July weekend and stay safe!

Get ready!

2010-07-01T09:03:00.001-07:00

Get ready everyone for tomorrows Memory Works Christmas in July blog hop! I can't wait!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

In the mean time, I will be dealing with one cranky little one who needs a nap already.. its only noon! Mine you he got up at 945~

i scrapped?

2010-06-25T16:28:00.005-07:00

I have not had the time to do much crafting lately :( Today I took the time to work on my mini book for the MW July Blog Hop, did a couple of pages and TRIED to clean up my corner of the basement... Raymond even made Daddy go to CVS to get candy for my basket (peanut butter cups are a MUST when i scrap!) bc it was empty! I am so happy that I took some ME time!

its looking alot like summer!

2010-06-22T19:35:00.006-07:00

Now that Raymond is out of preschool we:

Set up his pool...

Took Daddy to Bushkill Falls for Fathers Day...

Last week we went to the Please Touch Museum with BoBo and the girls....

And we went to MLPA for Crop for Heros...

and made some CUTE cards....

And finally... he "left" me for Summer Camp at The Little Gym! Whatever will Mommy do while he is away all day ? (well 9-1 is a big deal!)

2010-06-15T19:32:00.002-07:00

Join me for the blog hop!!!! I can't wait!

I'm back....

2010-06-09T20:03:00.002-07:00

to the real world!! My computer arrived today while I was at work! I almost wanted to leave early to set her up! She is so pretty!!! I have started adding the things I know I will need. I just added all of May/ June 2010 photos... so here is a little teaser of DISNEY!!!!

A GREAT blog hop!

2010-06-01T09:04:00.002-07:00

Thank you to everyone who took the time to stop at my blog during the blog hop!!!! There are SO many talented scrappers out there! My new computer is being shipped NOW! I am SUPER excited!

The winners of my giveaways are:

for the mini book~ shelly!
for the alpha stickers ~ gina!

send me an email (faceoffreckles@rcn.com) with your addresses and I will send them out to you!!!

Thanks again!

Memory Works Blog Hop Day 2!

2010-05-29T18:09:00.008-07:00

Hello everyone!!! Coming to you live from my mothers livingroom! Thank GOD she lives a hot minute from my house! Here is my "homemade" giveaway! I am so happy how it came out! Summer to me means family, BBQ, swimming and enjoying the outdoors! I hope the winner of this mini album will fill it with photos of their wonderful family! Please leave a comment if you want to win this mini book!

Here are some other projects with from goodies with the new catelog!

I will be posting again from my moms house! Hehe.. she always has the coffee pot on if you are visiting Hellertown! What would a girl do without her mommy????

Enjoy the rest of the blog hop!!!

Memory Works Blog Hop!!!!

2010-05-28T08:29:00.004-07:00

Welcome to my blog! If you are *new to me* welcome! I am so excited for this blog hop! Unfortunately for me my computer crashed last night, fortunately for you I think its a reason to giveaway an extra goodie or two!!! (My poor mother is watching my son while I work from her computer!!) This means I have no access to my lovely mini book I made using some CUTE Fancy Pants! That crashed too! If you trust me, I will get the mini book up sometime this weekend, but in the mean time I will giveaway this:

Please follow my blog and leave a comment for your chance to win!!!!! *** I ship only to US addresses*** I will be updating my blog daily so please visit often for even more chances to win!

Next on the blog hop is Luisa!!! Please check out her blog @ http://www.creativedesignsbyluisa.com/

If you get lost along the way please go back to Sue's blog @ http://scribblelittlepaperthings.blogspot.com/ to get you started again!

During this blog hop you will surf your way through a lovely group of Memory Work ladies! Please visit their blogs for a chance to win some AWESOME prizes!!! Enjoy your Memorial Day Weekend and PLEASE be safe. Sue and I don't want you visiting us in the ER!

2010-05-24T18:18:00.002-07:00

HOME..

2010-05-22T18:14:00.001-07:00

finally home from a very long exciting trip to Disney! It was a blast! This week is SO busy too! Tomorrow is little guys birthday party, Monday working day shift, Tuesday is Iron Pigs game with the grandparents and aunts for his birthday, Wednesday is his actual birthday, THEN the Memory Works Blog Hop and working ALL weekend!!! Wow I think I need a "beverage"!!! I promise pictures of Disney soon!!!

t-3

2010-05-12T11:22:00.003-07:00

ok.. 3 days until disney!!! i am going nuts! there is SO much to do, SO little time! we come home next friday night, then sunday is raymonds 4th birthday party! I want to house ready to go so all i have to do is cook! so excited!!!

Memory Works will be having a blog hop for Memorial Day weekend!!! Yippie! So excited for my first ever blog hop! wonder what kind of goodies i will have to give away????

WINNER!!!

2010-05-03T20:01:00.002-07:00

The winner of the thickers is..... ROBIN!!!

Thanks girls!!! I hope you all had a wonderful NSB!

The raffle continues until Saturday! Email me if you want tickets to win a HUGE basket of scrappy supplies! Benefits the Susan G Komen 3 day Walk for a Cure!

Happy National Scrapbook Day!!!

2010-05-01T04:41:00.003-07:00

In order to celebrate on of my FAVORITE days of the year.... I am giving away of on my FAVORITE products of all time... THICKERS!!!! I must have a zillion packs! So.. you know the rules. follow and leave a comment. HUGS!

We are scrappin here today for my sisters WALK FOR A CURE! Come crop with us 10a-6p.. enter to win a fabulous basket of goodies, make n takes, and mini projects!! WOOT WOOT! Look for pictures this week of all the good stuff that went down!!!

here are one of the layouts i made kits for....

2010-04-25T19:43:00.002-07:00

The yard sale was a HUGE success! We raised over $550 for the Walk for a Cure! How awesome! My sister still has ALOT of fundraising to do! So don't forget about the National Scrapbook Day crop this Saturday! (email me if you need info) We will also be having a Scrapbasket raffle going on. I will take pictures of the basket once its complete! Tickets are $1 or 6/$5. Make N Takes, Cash and Carry Memory Works products with 20% of all sales going to her walk!

In my little life.... I have a dr's apt tomorrow at 830. what the hell was i thinking? but its time for me to be a big girl and get some blood work taken and find out why i feel so blah all the time. maybe new meds???

Anywho. Since I am a week late on everything, I am starting Ali's a Week in the Life tomorrow.... just wasn't up to it this week... see ya!

2010-04-23T07:47:00.004-07:00

just a reminder that tomorrow is the BIG make up yard sale for Robertas Walk for a Cure. I just priced TONS of scrappy goodies too!!!!

I have been doing alot of soul searching lately. what works for me ~ what doesn't. I have come to the conclusion that I need some "work". My body isn't what I want it to look like, my mind is full of non-sense, and well I would have ALOT more money IF I would stop shopping. My shopping has become this way for me to feel good about myself. Well, now it hasn't. I have more scrappin goodies than I could ever use (hense why i am pricing for the yard sale) Sure am I going to buy goodies here and there, yes, but I am going to be more "selective" and share products and tools with my dear friends. I have a MILLION ribbed tanks. Why no clue. Sure they look cute under my Hundreds of hoodies. But that too must stop. To me~ I need to get back to being happy, carefree, and in love with myself!!!

Ok enough serious stuff!!! Here are some of the great photos of my month so far!

the last picture is of the Iron Pigs home opener! Raymond gets to be the "play ball" kid May 3! Come see him on the big screen!!!

Events Coming Up!

2010-04-11T17:29:00.002-07:00

Hey everyone!

A few things going on this week...

On Sat, April 17 There is a HUGE yard sale going on Front St in Hellertown. My sister is doing the 3 day walk for breast cancer so guess what.... all the money raised from the yard sale is going to be donated to a great cause!!!

Come see me this Sunday Aug 18 at Scrapbookings Inn for Meet the Teachers day. I will be having a giveaway and a cute make n take!!! Maybe a goodie for anyone who purchases or sets up a party???? Just ask!

Easter Weekend

2010-04-08T07:45:00.008-07:00

I hope Easter was as wonderful for you as it was for me. As usual we had the Matey's Easter Day feast! I think every year we have more and more food and people! Here are SOME of the 200+ pictures I took!

me venting... sorry!

2010-03-27T18:39:00.003-07:00

since i am pretty sure that a very few people read my blog on a regular basis... i will vent here instead of facebook! if you don't want to read my b*tchin then don't! but if you have nothing better to do, keep reading.....

~ please do not promise my child something you have no intention of ever giving him.

~ please do not think that i am stupid. sure i may act innocent and sweet, but on a rare occasion i know what i am talking about (this to the 2 men who brought raymonds new bed and THOUGHT i didn't understand the cursing in spanish. duh??)

~ please be prepared if you mess with my child i will eat you alive, with ranch dressin or ketchup. (this to the kids at preschool who call raymond "fluffy". pretty sure he is making the whole story up, but in case he isn't!)

and lastly

~ please, when i give you my heart, know its yours to keep. know i will love you everyday of my life, even if i hate your sneezes, when you snore so loud i sleep on the couch, and when tell you to go to he~ double hockey sticks on a daily basis.

the end.

My eventful week....

2010-03-26T06:59:00.002-07:00

ok so monday raymond woke up with a little rash... no biggie... then tuesday he woke up with it all over the place! i took him to the ready care center.. gasp.. not even the ER! the pa told me to follow up with his allergist (i'm a smart cookie and called then enroute and made an apt. already) well turns out to be some sort of an allergic reaction. what a fun week trying to keep him calm and relaxed! I shipped him to school today.. hopefully the rash doesn't keep spreading.

I went to a Stampin Up class last night and had a blast. I learned some new techniques even though I'm not really a stamper.

I am working on some projects right now. New Memory Works goodies came in the mail yesterday!!! Teaching a class or two at Scrapbookings Inn soon and working on a race to finish at MLPA!!!

On the home front, I went back to EMS and had a low budget trauma on the first shift back! We are getting ready for the big happenings of the next week: carrie underwood concert, macks 2nd bday party and easter!!!!!

March... already???

2010-03-01T18:29:00.002-08:00

did we not just have christmas? where does the time go? anywho... here is what popped into my head today... along with the big pile of wash i was working on... good thing the laundry room and the scrap room are next door!

Guess What???

2010-02-23T19:01:00.001-08:00

80 days til Disney... Oh I can't wait!!!!!

And there is ALOT of snow coming our way. Go figure!

My little red hands...

2010-02-20T12:58:00.002-08:00

I have been a busy bee.. here are some more layouts... and yes, my hands are red! Working on some Goodness!!!

tomorrow is Monster Jam.. oh GOD wish me luck! (after working night shift on no sleep! what was i thinking!)

snow days = scrap days

2010-02-16T14:55:00.004-08:00

with all the snow we have been having i have been able to scrap a bit! here are some of my new layouts!

these 2 are for Happy Inspirational Scrappin!

here is a Layout from one of the kits at MLPA (yes sarah i do finish them!)

Love him!

2010-02-14T19:13:00.003-08:00

My hubby doesn't get much attention on my blog. But in honor of Valentines Day and our 4th wedding anniversary on Feb 12th... I love him! He is truely the man for me! I "may" complain about his flaws from time to time... but they are the reason I love him! Anyone who can put up with me for this long deserves a medal!

hey girlies!!!!

2010-02-13T07:36:00.003-08:00

Hey Scrappers! Check out MLPA website. Jenni Bowlin is coming March 5&6! I can't wait! I signed up for the Friday night class! I can't wait to meet her!!! Here is a picture of the mini album we are making (i lifted this from mlpa message board)

I am teaching the BoBunny Recipe card books at Scrapbookings Inn Feb 25 at 6pm. Cost is $12!!! I will also be teach a Layout class March 10 using Pebbles Linnie Bell paper! I will post pictures once I am done with my LO (still need pictures OY!)

I am spending my night on a "date" with my littlest love bug! We are going to Weagmans (a 2 hour grocery shopping trip) and maybe hobby lobby. Raymond "mommy i need more stickers and paint" Gotta love that kid! I am thinkin he is the next Tim Holtz!

bad blogger hugs!

2010-02-05T19:16:00.002-08:00

bad blogger please forgive me!!! my world is spinning. 2 weeks ago at work (EMS) i hurt my left shoulder lifting a pt. they have me out of work (from EMS), i was in a sling for 5 days, on alot of good drugs, and crankie. so i could do nothing but sulk. i am feelin better, but i will be out of ems until mid march. *cry* i truely love all my jobs for different reasons. So far 1 PA, 2 drs, and PT. I had an mri and xray so far, however they are now thinking i have a herniated disk (grreat) so i have to go for yet another mri... poopie. so i internet surf and shop. thank god i can still work crisis a whole 1 day a week but it keeps me sane.

in my scrappy news. Memory Works new spring catelog will be out soon! happy dance!!! I will be having a crop at the house once that launches!!! come join me! I will also be teaching a CUTE recipe book at Scrapbookings Inn so go check out the site to sign up!!!

my boy is great. i just {heart} him! we are doing allergy testing to try and fine out why is gets uri and ear infections all the time... poor kiddo!

2010-01-19T13:30:00.002-08:00

Its been too long! Here is a little of what is going on!
~ I have been asked to be on the DT for Happy Inspirational Scrappin!http://www.happyinspirationalscrappin.blogspot.com/ Woot Woot!
~ Raymond is sick yet again.... I wish he would get better and stay better! He has been sick off and on for 3 months!
~ I am going to be doing some crops coming up! The PJ crop at MLPA on Jan 30! Plus I will be teaching a few classes at Scrapbookings Inn!
~ Now that Christmas is over and we have toys EVERYWHERE, I am trying to find a new home for everything... I have a feelin this is going to take awhile!

Hugs!

holiday pictures

2009-12-21T07:36:00.004-08:00

let it snow, let it snow! here we got 8" of beautiful snow! (it was beautiful bc i didn't have to shovel it!) we here in the matey house are getting ready for the big day! daddy still hasn't shopped, mommy is wrapped and waiting, and raymond thinks every morning is christmas and has a fit when he finds out its not. here are some pictures of the recent events!!! (and some crafty stuff)

mom me and berta... 1st annual shop without kids!

raymond helping mommy with cookies

playing in the snow (before a fever and a sleepless night)

and a cute tag!

Its the most wonderful time of the year...

2009-12-08T05:38:00.004-08:00

... and the craziest!!! Here are a few of the 100's of pictures of the recent days.
Shopping, Santa, Hershey, Christmas tree... the list goes on! Today is the 1st annual... shoppin til someone drops! My mom, sister and I are braving going shopping together with.. wait for it.... NO KIDS!!!! I am so excited. I can't remember if there was ever a time sice we've like 10 that the 3 of us have gone shopping together!

Scraptacular Fall Online Crop

2009-11-15T19:08:00.003-08:00

So for the past week I have been doing a cyber crop! This is my second one and I love it!

Here are my layouts/ cards/ projects from the past week...

2009-11-12T18:45:00.004-08:00

I am a horrible blogger these days.. I seem to do all my venting on Facebook! We spent the weekend down at the river... I think it was just what we all needed! We are planning on going up next weekend too! I haven't been scrapping much. I have no energy and have been in a fog lately. I haven't even been following WW because I just can't think straight. I did manage to take some great pictures of my kiddo! I will leave you all with one!

2009-11-02T12:53:00.001-08:00

who is going to be joining me???? its a ton of fun!

2009-10-23T07:13:00.002-07:00

Computer problems continue... I still can not upload pictures to my computer!!!! It is driving me bonkers!!! I have SO much new stuff I want to share with all of you! (ok maybe the one of you who reads my blog!)

Preschool is going better for Raymond. He is starting to control his energy. His teacher says he loves being silly, has alot of energy, and creating things (esp if it is messy!) Wonder who he sounds like...LOL

OMG I can't believe I didn't post sooner... I got the best news on Sat ... We are going to DISNEY!!! May 15-21! Raymond has no idea and we are not telling him until we are on the plane! I have never been!!!!! This is a BIG thing in our house... guess I better get to work and make some $$$!

2009-09-30T11:35:00.006-07:00

ok i said i would post pictures of this month.. since well today it is over...

This is my life....

2009-09-23T12:21:00.002-07:00

Well my computer took at little "coffee break" and my hard drive went to pieces... thanks to my dear friend Rob for saving the day and hookin a girl up! LOL I have a "fresh" computer with over 22,000 pictures on my external hard drive waiting to get put back on my computer!

I took a Donna Downey class and LOVED IT! I think I am hooked! My class at Scrapbookings Inn was cancelled last night.. boo. but I did get to watch biggest loser.. so that made me extra happy!

Raymond started preschool last week...pictures to come of that...once I can put them on my computer! He is having a little difficulty adjusting, but he will get the hang of it!

My allergies are kicking my tush (big target i know)! I can't wait to watch Mercy and SVU tonight! I think this is the first season of TV that I actually can't wait forward too! I hope I don't turn it a couch slouch!

new dt call

2009-09-09T12:45:00.000-07:00

hey everyone check out one of my scrappin buddies DT call for her new blog!
http://scrapthatpoetry.blogspot.com/

i am working on my application now!

We have a winner!

2009-08-25T19:39:00.002-07:00

Congrats to Jennifer Campbell for winning my blog candy!! Woot Woot!

My 100th post!!

2009-08-22T11:40:00.002-07:00

Ok since today is my 100th post... and because Raymond is getting new school supplies and it makes me sad.... and well just because I feel like it.... I am having some blog candy!!!

Rules: follow my blog and leave me a comment! Want another chance to win... link me to your blog with an awesome new layout using thickers (my favorite product!) I will announce the winner Aug 25!

who knows what the whole prize will be... but here is a start.... cause you all know I love to shop!

New Layouts...

2009-08-11T11:08:00.007-07:00

Ok after CKC I have some new Layouts to share.. I will post more later about all the fun summer events, but things are just too crazy around here...

this one is from the MLPA class Shape up your Layouts:

a cute little make and take:

a photo first layout:

and some of the many layouts I finished at the crop (these are MLPA kiss kits or creative cafe's):

CyperCrop!

2009-07-25T11:47:00.004-07:00

Ok last week I particpated in my first ever Cybercrop! what a blast. I think I prefer this to the traditional crop! It was a busy weekend here in the Matey house, But I did manage to get some to the challeges done. Here are some of my pages.

Be sure to keep checking my blog, I am nearing my 100th post! I am going to be having some yummy blog candy!!!

Maybe by the end of the weekend even!!!

My weekend...

2009-07-14T11:51:00.001-07:00

2009-06-29T12:22:00.001-07:00

More blog candy happening at on of my favorite on line scrappy stores!
Check out http://www.paperpopsicles.blogspot.com/ for your chance to win!!!

2009-06-29T11:19:00.001-07:00

Hey check out Taryn's blog, she has blog candy! Oh and she owns Hamburg Hideaway! This place rocks!!!! http://www.musingsandmemories-taryn.blogspot.com/

Busy scrapper

2009-06-21T19:53:00.008-07:00

Ok with some challenges going on at the stores, blogs and companies I follow... I have been busy! Here is a sampling of the pages from my late night in the basement!

????

2009-06-18T21:50:00.001-07:00

http://www.mcall.com/news/local/all-a16_5mental.6933135jun18,0,2014356.story

i am not really sure what this means for me yet.... fingers crossed...

2009-06-18T12:22:00.003-07:00

ok i finally got around to download/ uploading/ editting pictures... so here ya go:
raymond:

and of course baby ryleigh!

2 busy

2009-06-16T11:49:00.002-07:00

Alot has happened since my last blog entry...

~ I am an Aunt! Ryleigh was born on 6/10 and is ever so cute!
~ I became a Memory Works Consultant! I love having all of my favorite brands..Sue got me hooked ob Memory Works! Who doesn't love a discount right?
~ I have been working more at GVH however it seems no one has a crisis when I work.. so I just sit there...

And finally timmy tumor update came today... My mom's tumor has eaten away at a part of the bone in her sinus cavity... so to speak. Now on top of the tumor, she has a sinus disease.. which she will now have to get another ENT at UPenn to work on... she can't seem to catch a break! It's killing me to see her so upset and in pain...I know we'll all get through this.. it just sucks! I wanted her to enjoy this summer with all the kiddies.. now she will be going to UPenn a couple times a month..urg...

pictures coming soon by the way... too cranky today!

Graduation Pictures

2009-06-03T06:07:00.006-07:00

Ok here are a few quick pictures of my big day!

Where to start?

2009-06-03T05:58:00.002-07:00

Ok Roberta update: She is driving me silly! She is 4 cm dialated and contracting off and on! I have my camera bag packed and waiting to GO! When will baby Ry make her arrival... any day!

Mom: ok she hides stuff from us! urg! She has to go get Timmy Tumor check again in Philly. I wish she didn't hide her medical condition from us: esp me because I can handle in working in the "field". I hope things get better for her!

GVH ER- LOVE IT! It challenges me to just listen to people. I have met some wonderful people who I hope get the care they need.

I also became a Memory Work consultant! My friend Sue talked me into it! (not much to convincing) Let me know if you need anything, so check out their website!

And finally: Tomorrow is the day.. Ray is going for the big "V". I thought I was ok with it when we talked and made plans for our future.... but now I'm not so sure. I understand and see why we are doing this.. just my heart hurts and I am very emotional about it. I feel like there is something more for me out there, I just don't know what it is, could it have been another baby????? Guess I still don't know?

Finally the reason why I get through the day:

Can't believe he's 3!

2009-05-26T13:53:00.003-07:00

As I sit here.. with a big kid sitting on my lap.... singing a silly song.. I just can't believe he is 3!

Happy Birthday Raymond! I love you to pieces!!!!!!!!!!

Happy Mother's Day!!!!!1

2009-05-10T11:40:00.003-07:00

I just wanted to say Happy Mother's Day to all the Mommy's of the world!!!! AND of course to MY personal favorite... Mom I love you!!!!!!!!!! Thank you for teaching me what it takes to be a mom!

Pay it Forward

2009-05-08T11:02:00.001-07:00

Have you seen the "Pay it Forward" and "Blog Giveaways" where if you're one of the first ones to respond you get a gift created by the blog owner who has posted the message.? Well guess what! I was one of those five over at Trisha's blog,from Paper Popsicles! So I'm getting something like happy mail from her and I can't wait to see what it is!!!

Now for the PAY IT FORWARD part! Five wonderful people will receive a gift from me!! I'll be giving a gift to the first five people to respond to this post.

A FEW RULES TO FOLLOW ( and I am a rule follower....)
1. The gift will be a mystery of my choice, created especially for the recipient.
2. I have one year to get all five gifts made. I am a doer so it is likely to not take that long!
3. If you're one of the five, you must make a post in your blog offering to make a gift for five people, spreading the joy of creation.
4. When you receive your gift, you should make a post on your and show everyone inspiring others to follow the chain and participate.

With that said......want something specially made just for you? Leave me a message

Quick updates before Raymond wakes up!

2009-05-06T11:48:00.003-07:00

Ok.. I think I need to call crisis.... Dunkin Donuts in Hellertown is all boarded up!!!!!!!!!!!!! Now what am I going to do???? LOL

I finally got my camera back! Well long story.. but I got a camera back. NEVER go to Ritz camera!!! Nuff said!

Getting ready for my graduation party.. May 16th 4pm. Stop by!!!!

Trying to clean my house for said party..not workin though.

Finally got cute yellow sneakers! Yippie!

Oh and scrappin my heart out!

YIPPIE!

2009-04-27T18:30:00.000-07:00

I got a call today from Penn Foundation... I got the job working crisis for Grand View ER!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Doing my best happy dance!

2009-04-27T11:16:00.003-07:00

Ok here are some new LO I have been working on.... 2 pages even! WOW!

2009-04-20T18:58:00.001-07:00