My Creative Life

Being Creative

2010-11-01T21:51:00.001-04:00

Finally did some scrapbooking. I know it's about time. I really got to find my Mojo. I redid my crafting area so I'm hoping to be back in action soon. Expect to see pictures very soon.

My Little Girl sporting her new bang.

Kids

2010-10-26T10:05:00.000-04:00

Did a really quick impromptu photo shoot with the kids on Sunday. I brought them to get some head shots taken and when we got home since they were already in the mood I took a couple pics of my own. I never really notice how big they are getting until I look at the pics I take of them over time.

Nay is turning into quite the Little Man ... And Niah she's such a Lady .... They are 10 & 8 When did this happen?

I love our time together. They make for some of the best conversations. When I pick them up after school and I'm taxiing them off to their after school activities I am always happy to hear about the adventures of their day. And when they're not talking about their school day tales their singing and laughing. Those sounds just make my day 10x better.

I love those two little munchkins and I am so happy to have them in my life. I really don't know what kind of person I would be if I didn't have them in my life. They keep me sane and help to keep me going on those days I wonder why I should.

Anyways here are some of my favorite pics from our little photo shoot.

Love these pics because when I look at them I can see their personalities just bursting through.

And The Winner Is ......

2010-10-24T11:50:00.004-04:00

I would like to thank everyone who stopped by my blog yesterday. I hope everyone had a good time.

The winner of my blog giveaway is ....

littlen said...
Have become a follower. Hopping along now.

Whoo Hoo!!!!

Congratulations girl.

Dirty Scraps Blog Hop & giveaway

2010-10-23T01:32:00.003-04:00

Hey guys welcome to the Dirty Scraps blog hop.

This is the very first blog hop for Dirty Scraps so let's make this a good one. Not only will you have a chance to win some cute goodies from a Design Team (DT) members for visiting their blog, but you will also have a chance to win one of our BIG Prizes from our awesome sponsors such as :

http://www.scrapbookingfromtheinsideout.com/

http://www.cropstop.com/

http://thoughts2paper2009.blogspot.com/

This blog hop starts off at the Dirty Scraps blog and you hop from DT blog to DT blog until you reach the end. You must leave a comment not only on the Dirty Scraps blog and be a follower, but you also have to leave a comment on all the DTs blogs as well. You only have to become a follower of the DT members blog that you would like to win a prize from. Choose one or choose them all.

Here is what you can win just for stopping by my blog and showing your love and support of the Dirty Scraps blog.

All you have to do is leave a comment below and follow my blog. See ... it's easy.

Here is your link to your last destination. We have saved the best for last....... Ms Pinky.

Click right here ---> http://www.blueyecicle.blogspot.com/

Good Luck and thanks for stopping by.

Had A Wonderful Bday

2010-10-13T09:39:00.000-04:00

Have you guys checked out the new challenge on Dirty Scraps . If you haven't you should. This one really challenges you let out feelings that might have been built up for years. And Damn it feels good. Here is my layout.

Journaling reads:

You thought I didn't know you pretended to be my friend. You thought I didn't know you thought of me as a convenient friend. You smiled in my face and talked behind my back. You used me to pay your way when we went out. You used me to do things for you. I was a true friend to you and I loved you like a sister. Thank God I had a real friend who loved and respected me enough to show me what you really are .... A USER. I had to let you go. You lost a good friend. To bad for you.

My Birthday was on the 6th of October. I didn't have the usual party but I had the best time ever. This is my gift from hubby. Gotta love a man who gives jewelry especially Tiffany.

Wednesday (on my birthday) I went to Dinner with Hubby and the kids. I let them choose the restaurant and they picked Olive Garden (their favorite place). I had a wonderful time.

On Friday Night Hubby and went out to a wonder restaurant. Don't have any pics from that. That's something that we will keep between us.

Saturday night we went to the UM vs FSU game. We had a fabulous time. Hubby an even better time cause his team won. I always enjoy going to sporting events. You can really feel the excitement of the game when you're there live. And the people you meet there are the funniest.

Sunday was time to spend with the Ladies. We had lunch at a little Italian place. The food was delish and the atmosphere was perfect. I had the stuffed shrimp (stuffed with crab meat) .... the best.

Over all I am so blessed to have had such a wonderful birthday. Cheers to many more.

Blog Hop Coming Soon

2010-10-07T13:38:00.001-04:00

Dirty Scraps is having our very first blog hop, scheduled for Oct 23rd at midnight central time and ending October 24th at midnight central time.

The Dirty Scraps DT members are very excited to have our first blog hop and are looking forward to getting some new followers and seeing our loyal followers join us for our hop.

So mark your calendars because you are not going to want to miss this hop. Not only do we have some AWESOME sponsors that will be giving away prizes, but each DT member will also have a little goodie of their own that you can have a chance to win!

Sneak Peak of Goodies Coming Soon.

Must See TV

2010-09-17T09:46:00.001-04:00

I don't watch much TV but there are 2 shows I'm loving right now.

The first is HellCats which stars 2 Disney up and comings Aly Michalka and Ashley Tisdale. It's cute, corky and positive and I can watch it with the kids. I like light shows that I don't have to think about especially after years of watching Lost and Nip/Tuk.

The other is Vampire Diaries. My daughter got me into this one. She loves this show. Every Thursday Baby Girl and I and even the Little Man get our Vampire fix for the week by watching Damon, Stefan, Elena and Now Kathrine do their thing.

Smiling

2010-09-13T13:10:00.002-04:00

Ever wake up thinking it's time to turn that frown upside down?

Enough of the self pity and getting upset about the things that can't be changed.

Life is a gift and how ungrateful it would be not to enjoy every last minute of it.

Sing if you feel like singing.

Dance as if no one is watching.

Be silly just because you can.

Think how much better the quality of life would be.

Be the change you want to see in the world.

It all start with you.

The New challenge is up on the Dirty Scraps website. Check it out this challenge is a good one. Here is my layout for this challenge.

Journaling: The Moment I found out I was with child my life changed.

It was no longer about me.
I had to stop being selfish and start making better decisions.
You are the best thing that ever happened to me.

Girlie Inspiration ....

2010-09-01T15:57:00.002-04:00

Here are some of my latest girlie inspirations.

China Glaze's new fall line Vintage Vixen.

Been loving these peacock headbands. Think I will make myself one.

The Naked eyeshadow Palette from Urban Decay. Neutral and Sophisticated.

The new heart and key necklace and charm from Tiffany & Co.

My birthday is just a month away. So if you need ideas on birthday gifts, consider this your inspiration. LOL

My Summer's Gone????

2010-08-25T21:20:00.003-04:00

Back to reality. Kids are back in school. They started on Monday. Now it’s homework and projects as well as picking them up and shuffling them off to their different activities. Nay is on the Dance Team again this year and Niah is now on the Gymnastics team so I’ll be spread pretty thin this year. But I don’t mind because I love the routine. It looks like 2 trips to Orlando this year. One trip for each child’s activity and tons of completions and performances. There are also some additional, very exciting things going on for them this year that I can’t discuss right now. But trust me I’m one proud Mommy. And with all of this they have to make sure all school work in on point because of course that comes first.

Since my summer is over I thought it would be great to share some of my favorite photos from this summer.

Evening walks

Nay being Nay

Just love this pic of my little man.

Niah on her Birthday

Busch Gardens with friends.

4th of July

My Uncle visited from France.

The first dress I sewed.

Niah and my niece on our trip to Jamaica.

My cousin, My Mom and Myself in Jamaica

The family at our end of summer party.

Before I go don't forget to check out Dirty Scraps They have an awesome challenge up and the ladies have posted some wonderful layouts for inspirations. They are all stunning and very mind-grabbing.

Check out the layout I did with the Nikki Sivils prizes offered from one of our prior challenges.

2010-08-02T10:11:00.001-04:00

Did some creating with the Tallyscrapper July kit. Love IT!!!! Still recovering from a wonderful fun-filled weekend. I will be back later on in the week. Have a wonderful week.

10 Randoms Things About ME

2010-07-29T09:23:00.000-04:00

10 Random Things About ME

1. Yellow is my favorite color.

2. I haven’t watched a TV series since Lost.

3. I’m back on my P90x workout routine.

4. E.O.S. lip balm is the best.

5. I love being different.

6. Fossil Acrylic clear watch is my next must have.

7. Still haven’t finished the last book in the Twilight series. I’m holding on. LOL

8. I love to cloud watch with my son. That’s our special thing.

9. Nail polish and Makeup are my obsessions.

10. I really have to get more organized.

Here are some pics from Jamaica ( My favs cause of course I took hundreds of pics)

Creative Juices Flowing

2010-07-20T11:16:00.001-04:00

Back from a wonderful weekend in Jamaica with my family. The purpose of the trip was a memorial for my Grandmother who died 2 years ago. We added her head stone to her grave and added flowers. It was a small and beautiful ceremony that I know she would have loved. I will posted picture soon.

GOOD NEWS: I came home to such wonderful news. I have been selected as one of the newest design team member of Dirty Scraps . I'm so excited I can't even contain myself. I feel so blessed to be apart of such a talent group of women.

Before I leave here are a couple Pages I did before I left for challenges currently up at TallyScrapper ... Head on over there. There are some great challenges up right now. Great for getting those creative juices flowing. I also have a photography challenge up over there as well. Click here to post your photo.

I'm officially Dirty...LOL

2010-07-12T09:17:00.000-04:00

I WON!!!!! yes I won this month's challenge over at Dirty Scraps. I'm so excited I don't know what to say. My creative juices are just rolling lately. It also helps that there is so much amazing talent and inspiration over at Dirty Scraps. Check out my winning layout.

Lesson Learned ....

2010-07-09T12:12:00.000-04:00

The other day I was in deed thought about a friend of mine. We're not really close but when we see each other we talk and laugh and crack jokes. We are connected through facebook so I occasionally see what's going on based on status updates. Every time I see him he's smiling and joking and really enjoying life. He's had some medical problems for a while now but most of the time when you see him you would never know. He never lets it get him down. I love his spirit and his character and wish I could be more like that. Cause honestly there is no reason complaining and crying over things we can't change. Or complaining about something that we make no attempt to change. Anyways I saw him the other day and commented on a depressing status update he had on his wall (which was very out of character for him). He explained that things were more serious than first thought but that he had taken a step back to recharge and go at it again. And as usual he was cracking jokes, laughing and radiating with that beautiful spirit I'm always so envious of.

We could all learn something from his view on life. Enjoy life to the fullest and when you feel like you can't take anymore: step back, recharge and go at it again.

I'm not preaching or anything just wanted to share.

Saturday Afternoon Movie And Niah's New Dress

2010-07-06T11:49:00.002-04:00

OK I went and saw Eclipse...Loved it. I am very happy with the new director. He did a wonderful job of staying as true to the book as possible. Now that I was able to see the story on the big screen it makes my heart hurt for Jacob even more. I love his spunk and his drive but I feel bad that he has to be in love with someone that is obviously in love with someone else. Currently slowly reading Breaking Dawn. Heard that they will be splitting this one into 2 movies. Good more to look forward to.

Finished a cute little dress for Niah that she wore to the movie. She made me feel so good because she was so proud of it. I let her pick the fabric which made her even more excited about the dress. She wanted it down to her ankles but I decide it would be better mid-calf. I'm just so happy she likes it enough to brag that her Mommy made it for her. LOL

Good News and Eclipse

2010-06-30T13:00:00.001-04:00

Well let's see .... Today was a good day. I just found out I made the Tallyscrapper Design Team.... Yay Me!!!! This is wonderful news. I went back to Tally for some well needed scrapbooking inspiration. I decided it would be fun to enter the design team contest and I can't believe I made it. You know what that mean???? I've got the motivation and inspiration I need to get me scrapping again. Check out the layouts I entered:

Looking forward to seeing Eclipse at the IMAX on Saturday. Can you imagine seeing Taylor Lautner shirtless on that huge IMAX screen. Call me a cougar if you want but I know a good looking guy when I see one. When I first started reading these books. I was TeamEdward all the way. But I am currently on the last book Breaking Dawn and I will tell you that I have grandually switched sides. Jacob has my heart now and I think he has gotten the wrong end of the deal. So it's TeamJacob for me all the way. For those of you who have seen Eclipse already I hope you enjoyed it and for those who haven't What are you waiting for.

((hug))

Shawna

Happy Happy Joy Joy

2010-06-22T21:06:00.001-04:00

Father's day was wonderful. The kids and I let Daddy sleep all day witch if you know our family you would know that Daddy is the one always up early. He's been working so hard lately I'm sure it was a well deserved rest. We all went out to dinner at a little spot we found that's not to far from our house call Smitty's. It's a little Mom and Pop diner that serves BBQ. Here is a picture of the kids with Daddy.

If you don't know by now, I bought a sewing machine. A Brother's and it's all computerized and fancy. My first project is a skirt for work. I started the skirt on Sunday and I'm slowly working on it. I'm moving slow because I have never used a sewing machine before so I'm reading the manual and the instructions on the pattern both at the same time. I'm excited to say so far it's going well. The only thing was after I put the pieces together and tried it I realized I had to add another piece cause it would have been a little tight on the hips. So today I hope to work on the waist and the zipper. I want to be finished by Friday but we will see how that goes. If all goes well then my next project will be a dress for Niah. She wants a maxi dress that goes down to her ankle. Maybe I should just try a skirt for her first. Anyways here is a sneak peak at my skirt.

Proud Mommy

2010-06-16T00:17:00.001-04:00

I know I'm always saying how proud I am of my kids but really I am so proud of them. Every time I think I can't get any prouder, they do something else. This weekend Nay had a performance. The Live In Color Dance Collective (from America's Best Dance Crew) had a showcase on Saturday and he was part of it. It was a fabulous show and of course my baby ripped it. I wanted to video tape but they were not allowing it, so I will have to purchase a DVD when they become available. How happy I am to have my own little Live In Color Kid. Oh I didn't get any pictures of him in his costume... I know I suck. But here is a picture of us after the show when I took my little star out to dinner.

No More Babies

2010-06-08T23:41:00.000-04:00

Niah turned 8 yesterday. My little preemie is now a big girl. So hard to believe. All she wanted was an Ipod Touch for her special day. We made it happen and you would have sworn she hit gold. Her words at the end of the day were " This day was like a dream". LOL Doesn't take much to please her. Ipod and Olive Gardens with her bday buddy. My cousin Suzie who's bday is the following day made my baby girl a happy camper.

Wednesday starts summer. They are so excited. I have already got our reading lists together and purchases the workbooks we will be completing this summer so I'm ready to go as well.

That's all for now TTYL

NYX Cosmetics... My new love

2010-06-03T18:39:00.000-04:00

I have been on a makeup kick for over a year now. All kinds of makeup but mostly eyeshadows and lipglosses. I use to be mainly a MAC cosmetics girl but lately I've been trying different brands some more expensive and some way less expensive. I have stumble onto a brand by the name of NYX cosmetics. They are sold in Ulta and Cherry Culture. I'm not sure who else sells them. I love them. Their eyeshadows are highly pigments. The color payoff is equivalent to MAC if not better. Also they have a wide range of colors to choose from. And their lipglosses are great and a plus ... they have a fruity smell to them. The other day Cherry Culture had a sale on NYX products ... 25% off. You know I jumped on that. I haven't used everything I bought but what I have used I love. If you haven't tried their products yet, I would suggest you give them a try. You won't be sorry. I ended up purchasing $40 worth of stuff and got free shipping. Yay me!!!! Here is a photo of everything I bought.

Let me just say before I go, I am in no way affiliated with or am sponsored by NYX cosmetics or Cherry Culture. I just wanted to share my new found love.

Lovely weekend (photo heavy)

2010-06-02T08:56:00.001-04:00

My Memorial Day weekend was beautiful. I started the weekend with a Sushi Dinner with my hubby. We've been trying to spend as much quality time together as possible. That's very important in a relationship. And of course it was wonderful. Good food and company you can't beat that. We talked and people watched and laughed and ate til out little hearts were content.

Saturday was a beach day. My brothers and cousins met up with us at the beach. It was such the perfect day to be at the beach too. I found it so hard to leave. The sun was hot and the water was just right ... Perfectly cool. I think I was a prune by the time I left. Saturday night my Sister had a little something for all the May birthday people in our family. We have a lot of them.

Sunday was my day of rest and literally I did nothing but stay in bed all day. I love when I can do that. It's like pressing the reset button on my body. I woke up Monday refreshed and ready to go. So it was Lunch with my little family and a movie. We went to watch Iron Man 2... Loved it. We had garlic crab for dinner because baby girl insisted and I'm glad she did cause it was so good.

Now back to reality

I Created... All is Good.

2010-05-26T19:17:00.006-04:00

Over the weekend I actually did some scrapbooking. After months of nothing I was about to do a little something. I am hoping this is the beginning and there is so much more to come. Send good vibes this way.

This picture is the one I use on the invite to my 33rd birthday party. It was taken by Nayshawn.

Recital Weekend

2010-05-24T11:13:00.005-04:00

What a busy but beautiful weekend. Saturday was the rehearsal for the kid’s Dance recital that was held on Sunday. It was a lot to do in such a short period of time but the end result was well worth it. And I had to do it all sick. My sinuses started acting up on Saturday and it went down hill from there. My kids make me so proud. I am truly blessed to have such talented kids. In all the excitement I only got one picture of Nayshawn and none of Niah. My losing my touch so I guess I’m going to have to order pics. After the show we took my little stars out for dinner at Chili’s. The dinner was good but it would have been better if I would have been able to enjoy their 2 for 1 cocktail special…LOL

Nayshawn in his hip hop costume...Loves it.

I am definitely looking forward to next weekend. 3 day weekend is always a good thing.

Oh and I did some scrapbooking this weekend... Just one page. I will post a picture soon.

10 Things that Make me Happy

2010-05-19T19:51:00.005-04:00

1. Yellow Nail Polish

2. The sound of my kids singing/rapping in the back seat of the car.

3. Summer days relaxing under a big tree at the park.

4. Partying into the night with the family.

5. When hubby gives me a big hug from behind and kisses me on the neck.

6. My blackberry

7. Chocolate chip cookies

8. Waking up in the morning

9. Flowers ... especially brightly colored ones

10. Bright color eyeshadows

May 17th 2010

2010-05-17T19:00:00.000-04:00

How could I have forgotten to tell you guys the best news .... I have found a job and I actually am going on my 3rd week at work. It's a great company and a wonderful environment (unlike where I was working before). I really hope it stays that way. I was so stressed out at my last job that I was having massive headaches and even insomnia. I have decided that my philosophy will be to just go to work get my work done and go home. Really not trying to make friends. Of course I will have to socialize but I will consider my co-workers just that co-workers. I have come to the conclusion that once you bring friendship or want to be friendships in the mix it just causes a whole lot of trouble especially when there are women involved. I am looking for a peaceful working environment and if that means not getting mixed up in that whole friendship thing that's what I plan to do.

This weekend will be a busy one. The kids dance recital is on Sunday with a dress rehearsal on Saturday. No rest for the Mommies. I don't mind though, I really enjoy watching them do what they love to do. And then after that it will be a break for the summer. I am so ready to relax and go at a slower pace. I only have one trip planned for the summer so far maybe two. One will be to Jamaica. I haven't been back since my grandmother died 2 years ago. Am I ready??? Not sure but gotta do it. My Dad has got some really great spots that he's found for me to take photos of. So that has got me excited.

I haven't created anything in a while. I was browsing older posted the other day with all my scrapbook pages and painting and realize I really got to get on that. That is part of who I am and I've lost it. Being creative has always made me happy. So my goal for the summer is to start creating again.

TTYL .... hugs Shawna

Updated .. Finally

2010-05-11T21:57:00.003-04:00

Hello ... Hello is this thing on??? Yes people it's me. I know I haven't been consistent with updating my blog but as always I promise to do better.

So my Little Man is a tween now...He turned 10 yrs old on the 5th of May. OMG I can't believe it. It seems like all of a sudden he's so grown. It's bitter/sweet. I'm happy that he's getting older and more mature but sad that he's a lot more independent now. Eventually he won't need me any more.

The life of a Mommy is so emotional. The little things can be so difficult to handle. But what makes us Moms is the fact that we are the only ones that can go through what we go through and come out of it stronger than we were when we first started.

Oh I've been thinking about doing a picture a day. I started this last year of flikr and never finished so maybe I'll start that again. We'll see.

Anyways ttyl ... hugs --> Shawna

March 16

2010-03-16T18:52:00.003-04:00

Hey guys. How have you been? Still no job on this end and the pickings are slim. I'm not complaining though because it really could be alot worse. I did volunteer to help administer the FCAT at the kids' school last week. I was put in an advanced 3rd grade class. I must say the kids were very well behaved. It was a very interesting experience. If all classes were like that one I might consider a career change.

Other than that I have been trying to help hubby with his business. It's been fun spending time with him although I don't do much. Besides that I've been doing the Mommy thing and trying to enjoy this time I have off. Nay actually has a performance this Sunday. You know I'm excited about that.

Oh I do have plans to redo my bedroom. I've already bought the paint. Just waiting for hubby to plaster some cracks and if he waits to long I'll just do it myself.

Check out this pic of Me and Star chillin' on one of those cold FL days...LOL

Be Back Soon .... I Promise.

February 17th

2010-02-17T10:00:00.006-05:00

Well I'm sitting here flipping through channels and stopped on the Maury show and I'm wondering when these chics will learn. One girl will come on the show knowing she slept with more than one man and say this guy has to be the father. And get embarrassed when she finds out that guy is not the father. Come on ladies get it together. Anyways enough about that stupid show.

The job hunting is still going on. Resumes have been submitted but no interview request yet. But I'm still hopeful.

I've been keeping myself busy by watching videos on YouTube and surfing the net. The Wendy Williams show has been entertaining me as well.

V-day was beautiful. Hubby and I spent the day at the Morikami Japanese Gardens. If your in Delray Beach, FL and need something to do I would definitely recommend you check it out. He was also so wonderful and instead of useless flowers he got me something I can really appreciate. MAC makeup. Check out the pics.

I'm feeling under the weather today so that's all I can give you today. But I'll be back so I promise. Oh, almost forgot here is a painting I did last week.

2010-02-01T12:59:00.006-05:00

Another beautiful week is about to start. My weekend was great. Spent Saturday Night at the Hard Rock with hubby. I just love to go people watching. We had some good laughs. I always look forward to spending quality time with him, especially since it doesn't happen very often.

I'm keeping my fingers crossed that I get a call for an interview this week. My resume was submitted for a job on Friday. So hopefully I hear something soon.

And while I'm crossing my fingers I'm trying to stay as creative as possible. I have my good days and my not so good days. Here are some pages I've done lately.

It's Been A While ... I Know

2010-01-22T19:29:00.004-05:00

Hello my loves. Don't be mad at me. I know I haven't been the best blogger but life has been crazy and it still is but how better to get a handle on things than to share what's on my mind.

I started the new year with no job but I'm not sad. I don't think my last job was the right fit for me. So I'm looking for a new one. In the mean time, I have been creating up a storm. Even opened up an Etsy store and posted my first item tonight. Once I figure out how to post a link on the side bar I will.

I will leave you with some pages I did recently. Will be back with the rest.

Hello Again....

2009-10-07T10:34:00.003-04:00

So yesterday was my birthday.... and it was a great day... I am officially 33 years young. It's so weird because I feel like just yesterday I was graduating from college and starting my life on my own and now I am 33 years managing a family of four, a household and a career. In many ways I have grown but in many ways I still feel the so young. I must say I am grateful for all I have experienced through-out the years and looking forward to whatever adventures the Lord has in store for me in the future...I also plan to continue to live my life to the fullest and try not to stress the little things. I realize life is what we make it and I plan on making mine worth living...

Hubby took my to lunch and ordered me a big lobster and I had my favorite (Cheesecake) for dessert.......it was so good. Have a wonderful day everyone.

I'm Back...

2009-10-01T19:22:00.003-04:00

Man, has it really been 4 months since my last post? Just been here living life and trying to get things back in order. Now I think things have calmed down....and I am back to loving life. I am sorry to say I haven't really scrapped much over these last couple of months. I did however go to Texas and hang with some of the ladies from TallyScapper. Now I'm just patiently waiting for my Birthday on Tuesday and my party on the 10th. I promise I will update at least once a week. ttyl

Life has me so Busy..

2009-05-13T09:09:00.004-04:00

It's been so long almost forgot I had a blog... That's bad I know. Sorry... I have been running crazy for a couple of week now with no stop in site. I don't know about you but I like it that way... Keeps life interesting. No time to stop and think about the things that aren't right or that normally upset you.

At the end of April Ezzy and I were up on Fort Myers Beach for the weekend. Such a wonderful time. I wish I could head up there at least once a month. And it was just so nice to get away even if just for the weekend.

Went up to Gainesville at the beginning of May to see my Brother and Cousin Graduate. Wonderful experience. I am so proud of them and happy that they have made it this far.

Last weekend we had a family day at he beach.... Wonderful. I don't know why we don't have more of those.

This week will be Nayshawn's Dance Recital... Bitter sweet. Love seeing him on stage but this will be the last show until next school year. He is sad about taking a break from Dance Classes. Then the following weekend we are having a joint B-day party for Nay and Niah. That is going to be fun. They are so excited. So if I don't blog for a while you know why. Hope everyone is enjoying the outdoors. I sure am tryin to.

Getting Creative......

2009-04-12T11:56:00.008-04:00

Yeah .... I have been creative again. It feels so good. Even drove up to the scrapbook store this weekend. I got a lot of good things and even started a layout for Nay. I hope to finish it today.

I even had some painting taking place in my house. Ezzy did the first one a while ago.... a lotus flower and I did the cupcake.

Oh almost forgot to show you ....the kids did some scrapping too. I think they did a wonderful job.

Layouts

2009-04-09T21:37:00.006-04:00

Did some scrapping.. not a lot but some. I did one layout for my cousin which was a great challenge and a wonderful way of getting the juices flowing. I had her send me a pic and did a page based on the feel I got from the picture. I think it's my favorite page so far.

Did one of Niah too.

She's turning 7 in June.. Boy does time fly. My babies aren't really babies any more. Nay turns 9 next month. Since their b-days are a month apart I figured I would combine them and have one party in between. They agreed so I am planning. I am going to have a kiddie club type of party. It's still in the planning stage but I will share more soon once I finalize what I'm doing.

I leave you with a pic in honor of spring. Have a great weekend.

Man ...

2009-03-29T21:02:00.012-04:00

Man .... I think I should have a three day weekend. Two days for my weekend and one day to recover from the weekend. I can't believe it's Sunday night already. Well I had a great weekend. Saturday was family day. Ezzy, the kids and I spent the day in Hollywood. They have a great art park there. We had lunch at this little spot named Mama Mia's. The food was great and so very filling. We spent the entire afternoon at the art park where the kids played and Niah even did arts and crafts. It is definitely something we will do again.

Oh ... The funniest thing happened when we were at the restaurant. A family came and sat down at the table on the other side of the window from us. There was a little boy who fell in love with Niah. It was too funny. He was smiling and just gazing at her the entire time. I have never seen Niah so red. My poor baby couldn't stop blushing. Eventually his Mom brought him over to say hi. They were visiting from Delaware and were here for a wedding. I have never seen such infatuation at that age. When we were leaving I took a pic so I can have it to tell the story when she is older.

I Created....

2009-03-18T22:16:00.005-04:00

Yes it is true.. I scrapped in the last couple of days. It felt so good.

I think it is time to start shopping for some fun new scrapbook papers. Stuff with bright colors that are just going to call me to the table to creat something special. Might have to look online.

Hello Out There

2009-03-15T20:46:00.010-04:00

Hey there .... How have you been? I've been good. Visited my cousins on Friday and played American Idol on the Wii. I think I might have to invest in one of those. The kids loved it. And I will admit I enjoyed it too.

Spending a lot of time with family lately. Not that I wasn't doing that before but just been feeling like spending more time with them. Not just immediate but extended family as well. Spent yesterday at Ikea (my favorite store in the world). Ezzy tagged along and actually enjoyed it. I went to go take a look at the bedrooms because I am getting closer to redoing my bedroom and I have seen what they have to offer online. But you know it isn't the same as seen it in real life. Ended up getting a couple of lamps. Today I took the kids out for some pics. This was the end result.

2009-02-23T20:46:00.009-05:00

Spent Saturday in Orlando (Downtown Disney). Nayshawn had his first performance as part of his dance team and they did great. We decided it would be fun to ride the bus with the rest of performers so he could have that experience but I am not sure if we will do that again. The trip just seemed to drag and then we had to wait for missing kids. It was just to much for me. But it was a fun experience and the kids enjoyed it. Here are so pics:

That was us the last one Peaches School of Dance.

We stop off in the Lego store to pick up some Lego pieces. Then we ate at the TRex. A very fun place full of dinos and every 20 minutes there is a meteor shower and the dinos make all sorts of noise.

And here is my baby on stage doing his thing.

I promised a pic of my latest painting. So here it is.

TTFN .... I promise I will try to update more often.

2009-02-05T09:27:00.005-05:00

Well .... let's see .... what have I been doing? Now that I think about it nothing really. Just working and taking care of home. No wild adventures or anything like that. Been readying the Twilight series books. I love it I have finished Twilight and I am half way through New Moon. I think I should be ready to move on the Eclipse by Next week.

I just found out that the dance team Nay is on will be performing at Disney on the 21st. I am so excited. This will be his first of quite a few performances this year.

Took a little family portrait the other night. Might blow this one up. I have plans to create a picture wall in my living room.

Nay took this one of me and Niah. He is getting really good at this. He want his own camera. Maybe for is birthday.

I haven't done much creating but I have some projects in my head that I would like to see come to life. Will probably start those soon. Oh I did do a painting but I will have to post pics of that later.

Baby It's Cold

2009-01-22T08:51:00.004-05:00

Man ..... where did this cold weather come from? One day I am chilling in jeans and a t-shirt and the next it's a leather jacket and boots. Today I woke up and it was 34 degrees. Crazy!!! I really shouldn't complain it really could be worse. Anyways I was able to scrap last night. Did a little layout with a picture Nay took of my a couple of weeks ago. He caught me off guard but I think it shows the real me right now which worries me. Is this what my kids see when they look at me? When I am not paying attention to being happy. Hmmmmmm

I got a gift certificate for a massage for Christmasm, so I am going to use it this weekend. I think I am due for one. My poor muscles have been so achy lately. I can't wait. Not sure what else I will be getting into but it's still early.

I Scrapped Again .....

2009-01-13T08:24:00.007-05:00

Only did one layout this weekend but I am happy I had the creative juices to do it. It was from a challenge over at Tallyscrapper/ . The challenge was create a black and white page with journaling bigger than my picture. Not really happy with it but I am just happy I was able to create something.

I had a photo shoot this weekend. It felt great to get my mind off of things and do something I love. I had so much fun and the model was so easy to work with. Here are a couple of pics from that shoot. I also did her makeup to practice. I like how it turned out.

Well have a wonderful week.

My New Addition

2009-01-06T20:53:00.005-05:00

I think I am addicted to handbags (or maybe it's just shopping in general) .... I have bought 3 since October and I have my eye of two more. Take a look at my latest one. A gorgeous Juicy Handbag. I love it. I also want to pink one. I am really not a pink girl but that handbag is just too cute. I am planning a trip next month to the outlet mall up North ( about an hour and half away) to check out the Juicy outlet store to see if I can find a bargain on one. That outlet mall also has a Cosmetic Company Store. I have heard such awesome things about this store. Higher end Makeup like MAC for discounted prices. Definitely going to check that out. In other news I heard there is going to be a crop this weekend over at Tallyscrapper . So that is were I will be most of the weekend. I am really trying to find my Mojo. Oh and how could I forget Nip Tuck premiers tonight. I am such a big fan. So I am going to put the kids to bed and take a quick shower before it starts. TTFN!!

Happy New Year!!!

2009-01-05T21:59:00.006-05:00

Yes it has been so long but I do think I am getting back into the swing of things. Christmas was great. The kids got what they wanted and everyone is happy. 2009 is going to be my year. As a matter of fact anything would be better than 2008. I have a new prospective on things and I hope to carry that forward into the new year.

I started off the new year with 2 new layouts.

I will be back really soon.

OK ... OK.... I am OK

2008-12-01T20:17:00.003-05:00

I have not blogged in a while because I have been feeling a little down lately. I got laid off from my job about two weeks ago. Something like that is always hard but it is even harder when it comes around the holidays. But I am back now (at least for now). Thanksgiving was nice. All my cousins and my brother were home from college and my Daddy was here from Jamaica.

I joined the 365 challenge on flickr. You are suppose to take a self portrait everyday for a year. I thought it would be cool and kind of symbolic for me as I think I soul searching right now. It should be interesting to look back at these pics through out the year. Here is the first pic.

I will be back soon with some scrapbook pages. I had lost my mojo for a while there but I think it is coming back. We will see. Be safe everyone.

No School Today......

2008-11-11T11:28:00.007-05:00

Well the kids have no school today, so I was forced to stay home today. I would have rather been at work and so would my boss but I decided I would try to make the best of it. Decided to try some indoor winter pictures. Here are the ones I like.

I did scrap the other day and I did a painting last night. Here is the page I did and I will post the painting soon.

IT'S D - DAY

2008-11-04T13:04:00.011-05:00

I voted already two weeks ago but today is the day for many Americans. Please go out and vote. There can not be change if you don't make your voice heard and vote.

Halloween week was wonderful. It was spirit week for the kids. Monday was all red day. Didn't get a pic but the kids dress up in their red for Red Ribbon Day. Tuesday was Tie one on and Nayshawn wore his tie to school. A cold front came through that day. Our first one of the season. Wednesday was Shade Out Drugs Day and the kids had to wear their sunglasses to school (again no pic). Thursday was Hugs Not Drugs Day so they had to bring their favorite stuffed toy to school.

Friday is Join the Fight Against Drugs and wear your camouflage and of course it was Halloween.

On Saturday we went to the park and I got a couple of nice shots that are potentials for our Christmas cards.

I voted....

2008-10-26T12:45:00.008-04:00

I have been so excited about this years presidential election that I decided I would participate in the early voting process. My Mom, the kids and I waited in line for 3 hours to cast our vote. It was very exciting for me because my kids were able to share this day with me. They stood behind me and gave their support while I made me decision. This will be something I hope they will remember and be able to share with their kids some day. Of course I didn't leave home without my camera. While taking some pics on the stair of the Aventura police department a gentleman offered to take a pic with me and the kids. He was a photographer for playboy for 30 years. I didn't even have to tell him how to use my camera. That is rear. Usually I have to give a quick lesson and then I end up not liking the picture. But this picture I have no complaints. I actually love it and plan on blowing it up on canvas to hang in the house.

After wards we made a stop at Sweet Tomatoes for a healthy lunch and then went to see High School Musical. The kids loved it.

October 23rd ......

2008-10-23T08:00:00.006-04:00

I plan on having a great day today. I figure if I tell myself that enough I will actually start to believe it. Been feeling like I am in a rut lately. Hopefully it won't be for long. I hate feeling this way. I went on vacation thinking it would help but I am back to feeling down. I plan on taking the kids out this weekend and maybe happy hour with some friends on Friday just to do something and not think about how life is going for me right now.

So I had a big bowl of granola this morning and had a little time so decided to blog. It feels good to share the little world I call my own with others sometimes.

Wanted to share my two most favorite accessories in the world right now. My two new purses. Aren't they gorgeous? They hold all of my things and the fifty other things that Nay and Niah give me to hold through out the course of a day. LOL

And last I will leave you with a layout I did a couple of days ago. This really says it all about how I am feeling. When I saw this new Bazzill cardstock I knew I had to have it. I didn't even have the heart to cut it so I used the entire piece as is. LOL !! I love it. Have a great day everyone.

My art....

2008-10-21T21:58:00.010-04:00

Well I did a mini album for Nayshawn a couple of weeks ago and Niah has been bothering me to do one for her. I finished this last week but I am just now getting around to posting the pics.

I worked on this layout over the weekend.

I am so in love with the new Prima glitter transparencies. I am sorry I didn't order more.

I leave you with my favorite picture from my Bahamas trip. Love it. I think I might have to blow this one up. These Ruins are owned by the Ocean Club. People pay over a thousand dollars a session to have wedding pictures taken here. It is so beautiful.

More pic from Paradise

2008-10-17T23:09:00.005-04:00

Here are all the edited pics from my trip. Created a slide show with them.

Finished a layout tonight but will take pics of it tomorrow. Also started a canvas. Will share when it is done. Going to start working on my vacation album tomorrow.

Inspiration ......

2008-10-14T23:13:00.004-04:00

I have been so inspired by Donna Downey lately that I painted a canvas inspired by her work.I am jumping on the Inspiration band wagon.

I have joined the Campaign for Creativity.

Also did this layout sometime last week which is also inspired by Mrs. Downey.

Back From Paradise ....

2008-10-13T08:13:00.008-04:00

I know I didn't say I left but yes I left. I was out of here this weekend. I took a long needed break from reality. Took my little self over to Atlantis in the Bahamas for rest and relaxation. Even got a Swedish massage. I can you say heaven. I am back fully recharged with a new attitude. I realized that I need to start including myself in the equation. I have been so busy taking care of everyone elses needs that I forgot about mine. Here are some pics from my trip.

Today I am 32 years young....

2008-10-06T22:33:00.003-04:00

Yes ... Today is my Birthday .... My special Day ...... My earth Day......

More Disney..

2008-09-27T13:41:00.011-04:00

Here are some of my favorite pics from the Disney on Ice show.

Some pictures we took before the show.

Today I have been taking it easy cause last night I decided to rearrange the furniture in my house. I switched my scrap area with my living area. I like it much better. There are still some things I will have to adjust but for now it will work. I will try to get some good pics so I can show them here. Later, we are going to dinner with a friend of mine and I will be scrapping the rest of the night.

One more thing... I made it to the 3rd round of the Bad girls Top Designer Challenge. Wish me luck.

Disney.. I love Disney

2008-09-22T22:23:00.004-04:00

We had a wonderful weekend. Sunday afternoon we went to see Disney on Ice. I just can't say it enough, I love Disney. I love the feelings of being a kid again when I am there and I get that same feeling when I experience a new Disney adventure. The kids love it too. But I mostly do it for me. I am just luck they enjoy to share these moments with me. I am fully taking advantage of them because I know they won't be there forever.

Be back to post more pics later.

Mini Album

2008-09-16T21:22:00.009-04:00

I have been working on a mini album for Nayshawn and finally got it finished. I don't know, but it is so difficult for me to stay focused long enough to finish one. But I did it, I finished one for Nayshawn. I am really proud of myself, especially since I have been in a funk lately.

Also, I invested in some oil pastels. Don't they look so pretty. I can't wait to try them out. Oh and I am so excited .... I made it to the second round for the Bad Girls Top Designer challenge. If you haven't been by there, stop by and check out all the wonderful talent that have entered this contest. There is so much inspiration on that site right now.

I finally got it..... And my weekend so far

2008-09-07T11:44:00.010-04:00

Well I finally got my laptop after a month of waiting. I love it. Isn't it beautiful. This is picture of it on top of my Ikea throw that i bought last week. I love that thing it is so soft and warm.

Yesterday was had to wake up early to bring my car to get it serviced. So while we were waiting we took some pictures. I know people were looking at us like we were crazy but we had fun passing the time. Nayshawn to this picture of Niah.

Love this one of Nayshawn jumping. I feel a scrapbook page coming on.

After that was did some shopping to prepare for hurricane Ike who now looks like he is just going to barely pass us by. Good thing because I do not want to go through a hurricane right now. At the end of the day we ended up at the park. When we got there, there was no one there so I decided to join in on the festivities.

Today I am just taking it easy and doing some house work and reading. Oh and I did watch some cartoons with the kids.

Blah Blah Blah

2008-09-01T22:05:00.006-04:00

Posting just because. Let's see, Saturday I took the kids to see Space Chimps. It's a very cute movie. I enjoyed it and the kids really enjoyed it.

Then we took a trip to my favorite store. (IKEA) I bought a chair, a filing cabinet, and a throw. I always have fun going through there and looking at all the beautiful things they have.

Sunday we went over to my sister's house. I got to see my adorable little niece which is always a good thing.

And here is a layout I did with the August kit from http://www.tallyscrapper.com/.

Good Scrapbook News and Computer Whoes....

2008-08-28T13:45:00.004-04:00

I have been having a hard time just getting motivated to scrap lately. So I decide that I would just jump right in. I registered for the Bad Girls Top Designer challenge today. I am excited because I think this is going to give me the creative push I need to start scrapping more. I use to be able to do a page a night now I am lucky if I produce a page a week. I just have so much going on I just don't feel motivated. But after entering this contest I foresee some fabulous pages coming soon. OK so about that Pink Dell I ordered at the beginning of the month. This thing has been on back order since I ordered it from Best Buy. I call on Tuesday and they could give me an answer as to when I would have the computer in my hand so I canceled my order. I was so pissed off. What do they mean they don't know when the computer will ship out. Luckily I saw a similar computer on Walmart.com and order that one. I was able to order the yellow one which is the color I wanted in the first place. I just called again today and I should have the computer in my hand by Tuesday. I can't wait. I want to be able to surf the net anywhere and anytime. I also wanted to say congratulations to Vee for making it as a '09 Memory Makers Master. I am so happy for her she really does deserve this honor.

First Days of School.....

2008-08-21T21:37:00.006-04:00

Well on Wednesday the kids finally went back to school. Here are some pics. I didn't follow them to school with the camera this year. I was trying to spare Nayshawn the embarassment.

Day 1

Day 2

Also did two canvas painting this week. Take a look and tell me what you think.

No School Thanks to Fay ......

2008-08-18T10:15:00.013-04:00

Well we were all set to go to school today but they Tropical Storm Fay came along. So no school for the kids and no work for me. Which I think is good because I feel like I need another day to rest. Let me recap my weekend for you. Friday night I got three tickets the the Monster Truck Jams at the Bank Atlantic Center, so I took the kids. They really enjoyed the show. I really couldn't get into the whole Trucks running over cars thing but it was fun to watch the kids faces. Then Saturday we went to the Museum of Science and Discovery & IMAX. We watched a movie about an African Safari and then spent a little time in the Museum. It's always nice when you can incorporate learning with fun.

Then Sunday we spent some time at the beach. It was very refreshing. The weather was perfect. There was a light breeze. Not to hot and not to cold. I am so glad we went. I took a long walk to clear my head and get ready for the new school year.

Update: School will not start until Wednesday.

School Starts Soon

2008-08-15T10:18:00.004-04:00

Wow, I can't believe it. The summer is done. I feel like I really didn't do anything. I did take the kids to Disney so technically I did do something. But other than that the time just seemed to fly by. Monday they start school. So this weekend is all about the kids. We are going to the IMAX to watch a 3-D Movie tomorrow and after I get me hair done I will be taking them to lunch. Then Sunday we go to the beach. I won't forget to take my camera with me. So I will have some fun pics to scrap.

Speaking of scrap check out this cute layout I did of Niah. I love it. I found the quote on the Internet. Love the layout but for some reason it took me four days to create. Something like this use to only take a couple of hours. No sure what is going on with my creative juices.

Also want to share my good news. I ordered this little baby last week.

It is on back order to I won't get it until late next week. I really wanted the yellow one but that one was sold out. I am so excited to have a laptop again. And now the kids can have a little bit more access to the desktop without me having a fit because now I know that if something happens I still have another computer to use.

New Hair

2008-08-06T21:45:00.004-04:00

Well I went for it. Just went to the salon and chopped my hair off. I needed something new. I am still trying to get use to it being so short but I have to admit I am really liking it.

Also scrapped the first Disney picture. My favorite of them all.

Also, been feeling in the mood to do some redecorating around the house. Haven't started yet but thinking about painting my bed room. Turquoise and Brown are the colors I am leaning towards. I will let you know when I start.

More Disney.....

2008-07-31T20:29:00.008-04:00

Had fun at Disney and one of the things I enjoyed the most was the Castle. I love how they made it change to all different colors at night. And for the first time I was able to take Niah through it which was so exciting for her. How funny that when I was a child that walk through the castle seemed so much longer and the castle itself seemed so huge and surreal. This entire trip brought back so much memories for me which is weird because we have been to Disney so many times before.

Here are some of my favorite pics from the trip.

Back From Disney....

2008-07-27T21:48:00.007-04:00

And boy did we have a good time. The kids had fun and my feet are so tired. But that to me is a sign of a good Disney trip. Here are some pics from the trip. I will be back to post more later.

My favorite Land.

Tasha and the kids in front of the castle.

I scrapped !!!!!!!!

2008-07-23T10:17:00.004-04:00

After about a month of no creativity I scrapped last night. My mojo has returned and in full effect (I hope). LOL

I told the kids that we are headed to Disney on Friday and they are excited which makes me excited. What a great feeling. I love Disney because it makes me feel like a kid again. We will be staying at the Disney All-Star Movie Resort. We have stayed there before and the kids are really looking forward to going back. The hotel is decorated with characters from several of the Disney movies, which makes the experience just so surreal. Saturday we will do a full day at the Magic Kingdom and maybe play some miniature golf before heading home on Sunday. It should be fun and I will get to take tons of pictures. What more can a Mom ask for. LOL

Been A Long Time.....

2008-07-21T14:51:00.004-04:00

It seems like such a long time since I have blog. I just haven't been in the mood. I have been down and out for the last couple of weeks and I am slowly getting back into the hang of things. I wish I had some wonderful pictures and fantastic scrapbook pages to share but haven't done much of that lately. I will not dwell on that though have a little good something to share. I did buy the phone I have been wanting forever. Yes I got a blackberry (better known as a crack berry). I got it last Thursday and I am just so fascinated with all the wonderful things this little piece of equipment can do. I am still trying to figure everything out but I am definitely in love.

I will have some fun new pics to share soon. I have planned a little Disney getaway for the weekend. Tasha and I will be headed to Disney on Friday after noon. With the kids of course. So I will post those pics for all to see.

Other than that nothing really going on. Just trying to deal with life.

Have have one of those days/weeks...

2008-07-08T20:52:00.003-04:00

When you feel like being left alone by everyone and everything. That is where I am right now.

Don't want to be asked any questions. Don't want to be depeneded on. Just want to fall into a black whole and reappear when I feel better.

But unfortunately life must go on and so must I.

Weekend - Done Already?

2008-06-29T20:47:00.008-04:00

I didn't do much this weekend but for some reason it just flew by. Saturday we got up some what early and headed over to Old Navy to take advantage of the $1 sale they were having on flip flop. By the time we got there they had no more in my size, a couple in Nay's size and a whole lot left in Niah's size. Niah ended up with 10 new pairs of flip flops. I had to go to another store and ended up with 2 and Nay ended up with 3 pairs.

After that we headed over to the pet store because Niah was promised a hamster for her birthday by her Daddy. Meet Nayah or Rabbit ( the kids call him both names). Yes the hamster is a boy but because he belongs to Niah (the queen of all things girlie) he has to live in a pink cage. Let hope he doesn't know the difference.

Then today one of our friends called to say he had another one for us so Nayshawn got a hamster too. His name is NJ.

Also wanted to say I am so proud of my younger brother. He bought his first car today. A silver Toyota Corolla. Congrats Kevin!!

I have a little winner....

2008-06-26T20:35:00.007-04:00

My Daughter did a pageant and got 1st runner up which is really good since she had never done one before. And before anyone gets bent out of shape. She asked me if she could be in a pageant. I always wanted something like this to be her decision not mine. I didn't force her. As a former pageant queen myself, I believe there is much to be learned and many experiences to be gained from the entire pageant experience. For one it teaches social and interview skills. It also teaches how to loose gracefully. Which I am so proud of Niah, she was one of the few little girls that did not cry. She was just happy to be apart of the whole thing and it did help that she received a trophy. She also got a prize for the best smile. After receiving that she said it was the best night of her life. LOL.

Over all I am very proud of my little lady. She is truly an inspiration to me.

Formal Wear

Causal Wear

2nd Runner-up, Winner & 1st Runner-up

Here are the little gifts we brought for the participants. 35 little bookmarks.

I survived.....

2008-06-16T20:25:00.006-04:00

Well, I survived the first week at my new job. I am slowly getting situated and getting a feel for what I am doing. I think my brain must have been fried because on Saturday I has such a bad headache I didn't even get out of bed. The kids spend the day with my Mom. I am so happy I have her close by. I did feel better by Sunday. So Ezzy, Tasha and I went to dinner with a friend, Phil. He lives on Ft Lauderdale beach and it was so nice. It was a nice day. I took a couple of pics to share.

Look at this lobster I has for dinner. It was so good.

Here is a page I did to kinda get me back on track, scrap wise. I feel like I have not scrapped in ages. I think I am feeling it again. I must think Elsie Flannigan for the wonderful book she published because it provide the inspiration I need to get going again after that long break.

What Have I been doing???

2008-06-08T18:54:00.017-04:00

Wow were do I begin? Well Friday marked the end of the school year for the kids. They are officially on summer break. Luck for them. Niah had an end of year program. Their theme was Disney and her class sang the Bear Necessities from the Jungle book. They were just too cute.

I have been busy and stressed for the last couple of weeks because I have been interviewing for a new job. So with the interviewing process and then the training someone to take my old position when I am gone I have been just mentally exhausted. But I am happy to say I will start my new job tomorrow morning. I am so excited. I will be moving up in my career, supervising a staff, and back in the area of accounting I love. It also doesn't hurt that I will be making way more money. I am very sad to leave my old company where I have been for 4 1/2 years but ready to move on. My co-workers took me out to happy hour to wish me off. All I can say is White Chocolate Martini.

Also Friday was Niah's 6th birthday. I have no babies any more. My old company was having a family day event yesterday at Jungle Island (which is close to South Beach) so we went and also celebrated her birthday and my cousin's birthday (which is on the 7th)at the same time. Then three of her cousins baked for her. She had two sets of cupcakes and a cake.

Today we went to Build-a-Bear.

I didn't forget....

2008-06-03T21:58:00.003-04:00

I did not forget about my blog. I have just been busy with a few things. I promise I will share soon. Here is another picture of Nay and Niah I took the other day at the park.

Hello Out there....

2008-05-28T21:21:00.004-04:00

I have been so bad at keeping my blog updated. I have just been so busy with life. I just popped in to share two my most favorite pictures of my kids to date.

Be back soon. I promise.

My weekend.....

2008-05-19T13:21:00.008-04:00

I had a great and relaxing weekend. Saturday I did nothing. Yes you heard me nothing. The only thing I did was drive to McDonald and get lunch for the kids. Other than that absolutely nothing. I don't get to do that very often and of course the kids hate it but Mommy's need those kinds of days sometimes.

Sunday we had a water balloon fight. I haven't had that much fun in a long time. I laughed so hard I know I lost a couple of pounds. At first it was going to be boys vs girls but then Gavin wanted to join so it was every man for himself. I did keep Niah close by. Surprisingly she held up pretty good.

In the end I think Niah, Nayshawn and Gavin were the wettest of us all. As the losers they had to do this new dance called the Wu Tang at the end of the driveway. It was going to be in the middle of the street but I settled for the driveway instead. They were very good sports. I did take a video and as soon as I figure out how to upload I will. For now here are some pics.

All in all it was a good weekend and it is beginning to look and feel a lot like summer.

Scrapping Kinda....

2008-05-18T10:34:00.004-04:00

I confess, I haven't done much scrapping lately. Just been busy and really not in the mood. I did manage to muster up two for some challenges on Tallyscrapper . I think just jumping in there will help me get my mojo back. I just got the spring fling kit from Tallyscrapper and hope to play with that later.

This one was for the Random Song Challenge. Had to put the Ipod on shuffle and scrap the first song that came up. It was Paper Thin by MC Lyte. I know the picture doesn't match but I still have not gotten any ink for my printer. I will probably redo this. This was for the Crayon Challenge. Had to use crayon is some way on the layout. I just it for the boarder.

More from my weekend....

2008-05-13T22:37:00.007-04:00

I forgot to add some pics from Reneece's prom. She was absolutely beautiful. My baby cousin is growing up. She will be headed to Bethune Cookman in the Fall. I think she's will be studying Broadcast Journalism.

Here are a few more from the party.

Now I have tons of pictures to scrap and no ink in my printer. That sucks. I guess it is off to the store for me. Not until the weekend though.

Another long weekend.....

2008-05-12T19:39:00.007-04:00

Saturday I took my Mommy shopping to get her a Mother's Day gift. She ended up getting a couple of things out of Forever21. I love that store. Saturday Night was Gavin & Melanie's 21st birthday party. All I can say is good times, good times. Sunday I got up and did an engagement Photo shoot for a friend of mine. When I got back home I took a long nap. Then Ezzy made me dinner. Yummy.

Some pics from the party. Unedited because I'm lazy.

Be back later with more.

Wow.... Great weekend

2008-05-06T18:34:00.013-04:00

May is always such a busy month for me. So many birthdays. Friday was Ezzy's, Saturday was Tasha's, Sunday was Gavin's(brother) and Monday was Nayshawn's. So Friday night I took Ezzy out to celebrate his birthday. Boy, I haven't partied like that in years. Had tons of fun though.

The Saturday took Nayshawn out to get his birthday gifts. 2 pairs of Old Navy jeans, A pair of Nikes, and fish which he calls Nay. Then that evening we took Ezzy, Nayshawn, Tasha and Gavin to dinner at the sushi restaurant. Yummy. Here is a picture of the birthday people after dinner.

Sunday morning we got up had fun with bubbles and created some paintings for Uncle Gavin for his birthday.

Then i made some mini cupcake pops for the little get-together we had for Nayshawn which ended up being for all four birthday people.

Gavin is so mean. He held Niah's mouth so she could blow the candles. The boys acting silly. Sometimes I feel they aren't really acting. LOL Last but not least. Nayshawn on Monday, his official birthday. My baby is now 8 years old. Where has the time gone? Next weekend - Reneece's prom, Gavin & Melanie's birthday party, & Mother's day. Another busy weekend.

Almost the Weekend....

2008-04-29T22:03:00.008-04:00

My weekends just seems to sneak up on me. I feel like it was just Sunday and now we are looking at Thursday. On Sunday Aunty Kelly (my best friend and the kid's godmother) stopped by for a visit. She lives in New York and we don't see her very often. It was a nice relaxing day and before she left I made sure to get some pics.

Even caught one of them snuggling in Nayshawn's bed watching TV.

Oh and FYI - I still have not gotten anything from the wish list I posted a couple weeks ago. Went to Payless, they only had the shoes in green. That sucks. I am still looking though. As for the other items, I just have not gotten around to it.

EDITED: I am really loosing it. I just realized that today is only Wednesday. That sucks. Now I know I need a break.

Random Rambling......

2008-04-25T19:48:00.008-04:00

Happy Friday... It has been such a long week. I haven't shared any scrapbook pages in a while so here you are. Also because I just have nothing to do. I decided I would make another tutu for Niah. Yellow. I can't wait to get out and take some pics of her in it. I just love to see little girls in tutu's. I forgot to share the progress on my update to my scrap area which was originally my formal living room. I visited my favorite store ever. (IKEA) and purchased a shelve unit. I have actually been watching this shelve for a while. I think I want two more and want a couple more of those baskets as well. Anyways, here is a picture of what it looks like. I also got some of those wonderful little jars. I hope to have everything in place by the end of the summer. Can't use to much money I have a trip to Disney planned for mid June.

And a Star is Born.......

2008-04-22T09:48:00.010-04:00

I told you I had some news about Niah. Well, she had been bugging me to do a pageant because she wants to win trophies like me. If you haven't realized by now my little Niah is as girlie as they come. So on Sunday April 20th after months of her begging me to do a pageant. Niah did her first pageant (The Cinderella Scholarship Pageant Miami Preliminary). I must say she was truly in her element. She loved it and she won the beauty completion which consists of formal wear and interview. That's MY Girl. So now it is off to Orlando in June to see if we can win some college money. Here are some pictures from Sunday.

My girlfriend Nadia did her hair. Just flat-ironed no chemicals.

I did not realize how long her hair is.

Introduction during casual wear competition.

Formal Wear.

On stage interview.

See Maggatti, Jamaica

2008-04-17T10:36:00.010-04:00

Every time I go back to Jamaica I try to go someplace I have never been before. As small as the island is I know there are places I have yet to venture. This time my Dad took me, my Mom and my cousins to a place called Maggatti. Not a lot of people know about it, not even those from Jamaica. There is a river that runs through it (LOL isn't that a movie) and it is gorgeous. I don't even think the river has a name. Basically it looks like someone decided to create a clearing close to the river where people can go and have get-togethers. I love it. It was the most beautiful virtually untouched piece of nature I have ever seen. It has been raining a lot during our visit so the water is red from the red dirt in the area. My mom and My cousin Suzie.My MomMy dad says this big pipe brings water from the other end of the river in the mountains to the people that live in town near by. My cousin Reneece and I admiring the sights.

What I want.....

2008-04-15T14:15:00.007-04:00

Ever so often I sit down and I think about what I want. It may be clothing, shoes, scrap supplies, anything really. Then I put my plan into motion to get what ever it is I want. So her is my list. this time it is clothes. A girl can never have to much.

SOMETHING FOR WORK: This gorgeous dress from Ann Taylor Loft (where my brother now works). I smell discount.

SOMETHING FOR PLAY: I also love this dress from Forever 21. I am always in heaven in that store.

And don't forget the shoes. The black shoes is from Bakers. The pink is from Payless.

I know there are a couple of purses out there that I have been looking at but can't decide on that yet.

I've Been Creative.

2008-04-10T20:45:00.006-04:00

Yes folks I have been creative. The other day I was feeling a little down and decided to try my hand at painting again. I made one big old mess but I must say I like the out come. I hung it above the front door. Check it out.

Here is a longer view. I Just hung it on a nail that was already there so Ezzy will have to fix it properly over the weekend. Sorry for the reflection from the mirror. But you get the point. I also took the railroad pics that are hanging on the side.

Look, spring is in the air. My flowers (the only set) are blooming. I have to start getting my yard back in order. I have been a little lazy about that but 2008 is a whole new ballgame.

Also Nayshawn's best buddy came over to take pictures the other night and I got this great picture of the both of them. They sure do love each other and man when they get together all you know what breaks loose.

I have some news about Niah but I will post that later. TTFN

Been A While......

2008-04-06T18:50:00.004-04:00

I am so sorry it has been a while since I have blogged. I have had to deal with the lose of someone very close to me. Well while I was in WI, my Grandmother on my Mom's side had a stoke. It was caused by a pre-existing heart condition. Then on March 17th she died due to complications from the stoke. It has been very hard for me since I was very close to her. She lived in Jamaica and if you remember in June the kids went and spent a month with her. I am so glad I decide to let them go because they were able to spend some quality time getting to know her before she died. This is the first time I have had to deal with the death of someone so very close to me and boy is it hard. I miss her so much it hurts. I am told that eventually it will get easier but for now I can't imagine. I am also hurting for my Mom who was an only child and very close to her Mom. She has had some very hard days since we have come home and it hurts me that there is nothing I can do to ease her pain. I just pray that we can get past this. Hopeful the hurt will go away and the beautiful memories of such a sweet and beautiful lady will remain. OK, I have to go the tears are coming and I might be able to control them. I promise I will be back blogging regularly soon.

This is a picture form my 31st birthday party in October. My Grandma on the left and my Mom the right.

I love you Grandma and I love you Mom.

Shawna

Recent Scrapbook Layouts

2008-03-11T12:46:00.008-04:00

So I realized I have not shown you what I worked on while I was in WI. So I am going to post them. I got just six layouts done. An accomplishment for me. Since I normally only do one a night. Some of the girl completed over 20. Maybe one day i will get there. The first one is my favorite. I saw that quote on a T-shirt and knew I had to use it.

More pics from Wisconsin..

2008-03-05T21:09:00.005-05:00

Like I said I had a wonderful time even though it was very cold. Try nothing higher than 25 degrees. I am very glad I went. I was able to meet face to face some really beautiful, fun and sweet ladies.

Look at all that snow!

I told you it was cold.

I can only imagine how long it is going to take for all this snow to melt.

I Am Still Alive..........

2008-03-03T13:07:00.004-05:00

I know .... I know. I have been a bad blogger. First I was sick with a sinus infection. Then it was the kids being sick. Then I was working like crazy. I am so excited to share that I just got back from Wisconsin. I left Thursday afternoon and got back on Sunday afternoon. I attended a scrap retreat with some of my friends from Tallyscrapper. This was the first time I had ever done something like this. And besides the fact that I didn't have my luggage until Friday afternoon I had so much fun. Everyone was so nice and really made me feel at home. I wish I had more time. But I had to come back to get back to work today. (Sucks... I know). It was a big adjustment for this Florida girl going from Florida weather to 20 degree Wisconsin weather. But I was able to see snow for the first time in years.

Here is one picture. I will be back later to post more.

Support a good cause......

2008-02-13T12:08:00.000-05:00

Support Shawna in the 2008 Walk to Cure Diabetes Greetings! I'm writing to you to ask for your support in a very special cause.This year, I'll be taking part in the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation's Walk to Cure Diabetes along with a half-million other walkers across the country. Our goal: To raise $100 million to help fund research for a cure for type 1 diabetes and its complications.Type 1, or juvenile, diabetes, is a devastating, often deadly disease that affects millions of people--a large and growing percentage of them children.Many people think type 1 diabetes can be controlled by insulin. While insulin does keep people with type 1 diabetes alive, it is NOT a cure. Aside from the daily challenges of living with type 1 diabetes, there are many severe, often fatal, complications caused by the disease.That's the bad news... and yes, it's pretty bad.The good news, though, is that a cure for type 1 diabetes is within reach. In fact, JDRF funding and leadership is associated with most major scientific breakthroughs in type 1 diabetes research to date. And JDRF funds a major portion of all type 1 diabetes research worldwide, more than any other charity.I'm writing to ask for your support because now more than ever, EACH of us can be a part of bringing about a cure. Each of us can make a real differenceWon't you please give to JDRF as generously as you're able?Together, we can make the cure a reality. Thank you,Shawna JohnsonPlease visit my Walk Web page if you would like to donate online or see how close I am to reaching my personal goal:http://walk.jdrf.org/walker.cfm?id=86974275 Follow this link to make a donation:http://walk.jdrf.org/support.cfm?id=86974275 © 2008 Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation. All rights reserved.

I Love This Man....

2008-01-11T22:54:00.000-05:00

I know you have heard me say this time and time again but it is so true. I really do love this man. He has the most beautiful soul and is very compassionate about our relationship. The last couple of days I was feeling a little negative about certain things around me and I was so ready to through in the towel. Then all he has to do is hold me and tell me that I will be OK and that I will make it past this and I fell so much better. I feel ready to take on the world again. How is it possible that one man can make me feel this way? I am really not sure but he does and I love it.

OK enough being mushie. Here is a sneak peek at the January Kit from Tallyscrapper . Can you say yummy? TTFN

Happy New Year....

2008-01-06T16:10:00.000-05:00

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!!

I know this is late, but better late than never. I set up the tri-pod and got in the picture this time. I think I did a good job. Nayshawn was able to ring in the new year with us but Niah fell asleep about half an hour before midnight.

So far my 2008 has been great. I have been spending time with family and friends. The kids have been on winter break and enjoying the time off. But it will be back to school for them tomorrow. Boy the two weeks just flew by. Yesterday we went to the Miami Children's Museum. This is part of my New Year's resolution. One planned outing per month for the entire year for a total of 12 planned outings. It was a lot of fun. Check out the pics below. Also some new Layouts for the new year.

And I saved the best news for last. I made on the Tallyscrapper design team. This is especially exciting for me because I have grown to just love everyone there. And I was already planning a trip to meet a lot of the wonderful and talented women from that site in Wisconsin in February.

Pictures from Christmas....

2007-12-30T22:22:00.000-05:00

Well, our Christmas was nice. The kids enjoyed it and that is all that really matters. My Christmases are for the kids now anyway. Nayshawn loved his Nintendo DS and Niah loved her Portable DVD player. I got a Making Memories Carousel and Paint brushes from Ezzy a ring from Nayshawn and a porcelain egg from Niah. I bought myself a backdrop, a studio light and a 85mm lens. So all in all I had a wonderful Christmas and I am looking forward to a great new year.

Merry Christmas

2007-12-24T21:43:00.000-05:00

Merry Christmas everyone. We are getting ready for Santa. Kids are almost in bed. Most of the gift have been wrapped and we have been tracking Santa on NORAD. He is currently in Peru and working is way up to North America. We have made his cookies and put them by the tree with his milk. All we really have to do now is wait. I will be back soon with pictures of Christmas Day.

Some Scrapping Going on.....

2007-12-17T12:38:00.000-05:00

Tallyscrapper is having another Design Team search. So I created some Layouts for my entry. Take a look. The last one is actually a gift for my Sister-in-law. It is mounted on a canvas.

Feeling More like Christmas...

2007-12-12T23:01:00.000-05:00

OK, I am starting to feel it now. I did some shopping today. Can't say what I got for far that my family is reading my blog.

I am especially happy to purchase Nayshawn's gift. He has been doing so much better in school lately. I even got a call from his teacher yesterday to say he has been behaving himself and doing his work. He has been getting A's and B's. How beautiful is that. So needless to say I am going to run to the store to pick up the Nintendo DS he requested. I love times like these. Niah on the other hand wants a fridge for her room as her Christmas gift. What is wrong with that lazy little girl? She won't be getting that, for those of you who thought I was even considering it.

For now I leave you with some pictures of the ornaments from my tree. The are simple but beautiful and mean so much to me because they are to same ornaments I use to decorate my mother's tree when I was growing up.

Feeling like Christmas.....Maybe

2007-12-06T20:23:00.000-05:00

There are a lot of little thing going on around the house that makes it feel like Christmas time. Living in Florida makes it so hard sometimes to get into the holidays. Other states see the change in seasons and right now they are experiencing snow and cold weather. What do we have 80 degree weather and no sign of the cold. So I have to create the feel some how. Not just for me but for the kids. I bought these two little trees from Target for the kids to put in there rooms.

And our stocking are hung by the Chimney with care. In hopes the St Nick will bring some goodies.

And you know I just couldn't wait any longer to break out the boots. Even though today was 78 degrees....it's December. All the Floridians should be able to understand.

Art

2007-12-03T22:47:00.001-05:00

I am so excited to show you what the kids and I have been up to. Well, a couple of weeks ago I went to the store and bought some canvases and paint to do a paint night for me and the kids. I think it was a success.....check out what we created.

I didn't know my little family had so much talent. They are all hung very nicely on the walls of our rooms. They are so proud of their work. I think they have soon these painting to everyone who has walked through my door. Which makes me happy because it is important to have some creativity in your life.