Faithbooking Inspirations

A Gift ~ Through Eternal Glasses

For months my son had bugged reminded me what he wanted for his birthday....Guitar Hero III~ It was a daily, and sometimes hourly, discussion.

He even talked me into this shirt that said "My Mom Rocks" ~ I think that was a little sweet talking going on, even through a shirt :~)

How could I begin to dream of giving him anything else. 

So, of course, there was a Wii Guitar Hero III for a certain 12 year old's birthday.

Then, we saw what was on the screen......

In short ~ one of the levels in Guitar Hero III is called "Battle for Your Soul" and, it has songs such as "The Number of the Beast" and "Raining Blood".  Images of Satan were sprinkled all over the game ~ at one point the player even battles Satan in order to advance to the next level.

As I watched this play out in my living room, all I could think was "Christ died a horrible death so we would never have to see Satan, and now, we are playing with him."

My heart was torn ~ how could I think of returning this game.....Yet how could I not?

I thank the Lord for a child who had a heart tender enough to hear his parents' concerns and be willing to return his game ~ Praise God for our children and how the He can speak to their hearts. 

Now a PS2 Guitar Hero 'Rock the Eighties' sits by our TV ~ it may not be the newest and greatest out there, but, Satan has been put back in his place ~ out of my home.

That gift incident has made me think a lot about the gifts we give and the love / thought / impact / stories behind them.  There is so much more that can be added to our pages with pictures of gift exchanges:

• Why was the gift requested / given / chosen / perfect for the receiver or from the giver?
• Is there any eternal significance / statement / story that can give you the opportunity to point towards Christ on that page?
• Was there a sacrifice made to make the gift possible?  Include the appreciation of God's work to allow the gift
• As you or your loved one use and enjoy the gift, is there something that can be included about Christ or your prayers for your future generations
• How can the gift be used for good / potential eternal purpose?  Include a prayer revolving around the gift and its potential

Wow, think about the difference we can make with a few added words.  The next time you make a gift giving / receiving page ~ look at the pictures through "Eternal Impact Glasses".

**And, if you are a parent whose child plays Guitar Hero III, any video game for that matter, just take an hour or so to look at it ~ make sure you are comfortable with the images and the message that your child is seeing.  And, please know, that I hope not to offend anyone in any way.  I realize there will be some 'world' in these video games, as parents we just have to decide how much 'world' the Lord would want us to allow in our home.

Music to Impact Eternity!

I came to Houston to visit my husband during this crazy transition ~ but, man, did the Lord have a bonus planned!  I got to see Natalie Grant in person today!!!

For anyone who knows me, they know there are few people here on earth I'd rather meet than this amazing woman.  Her songs have touched and literally changed my life and who I believe God wants me to be.  I've even named my blog from one of her songs!  So, while I may not have been one of those screaming Elvis fans, I sure was, to be honest, giddy when I found out she would be here in town!

What does this have to do with scrapping you ask ~ well, where do I start?...

• So much of who I am, who I struggle to not be, and, how I try to see myself as He sees me has been formed through her music ~ As I sat at the concert, I had the thought that those songs, struggles, and victories would make some great pages.  And, I am sure you have life changing / forming songs too ~ share those:  Use the words along with the words, stories and prayers.  You can even include a CD with the song in the pocket (See an example).  The song words, along with your journaled words can impact eternity for your loved ones!
• As I have shared in many previous posts, in the Songs and Poems category, create an album designated just for music / songs that have impacted you and help tell the story of who you are and your journey to a legacy
• As I saw my daughter be so excited with meeting Natalie, I was deeply touched to see a woman impacting a little girl in such a huge, potentially eternal way.  What started as a 'trip to see Mommy's favorite singer' turned out to be an event my daughter will remember for a long time.  When I create the page with the pictures from today, that desire for my daughter to follow in His path and be a woman who serves Him will be as much as a part of the page as the who / what / and when of the day
• If you have a teen daughter, I strongly urge you to find when the Revolve Tour is coming to town, and, take your daughter.  I kept threatening to put a wig on my son and take him this weekend to the Houston Revolve!  :~)

To learn and hear more about Natalie Grant, check out her My Space ~ she seemed to be real and passionate about His love and grace.

So, thanks so much to Natalie for being the highlight of my trip to Houston ( we won't tell my husband that)  :~)

Also, a BIG THANK YOU to Chad Prince of Artistic Christian Photography for the awesome pictures.  If you live in the Houston area and are in need of a photographer, contact him at talkwithchadtoday@yahoo.com   

His Word ~ So Many Translations: So Much Power

A couple days ago my 12 year old son was looking through a King James Version of the Bible, and, showed me a verse he'd found that really spoke to him.

Then, he asked me a great question:  "What is your favorite verse in this version?"

I answered his question, and thanked him for a great post idea!!  :~)

That is a wonderful bit of us that is so important to share ~ we are careful to put His Word in our albums, but, what about including a peak into our heart concerning the different versions and translations?  I have quite a few verses that I have tucked away in my heart in different translations for specific reasons ~ and, I'm sure you do too?

• Do you have a favorite version / translation?
• Do you read a specific version for a specific reason?
• Do you cross-reference different versions during your study?  Why?  How?
• Create a page of your favorite scripture(s) in different translations
• Share any verses that speak to you in specific versions and why you favor that particular wording
• Create a page with the verse in stickers, die-cuts or fancy fonts and journal the reason that verse and version is special to you
• Devote an entire album to sharing your favorite verses:  Include the verse, version, story, peace, power, intervention, inspiration, time in your life, change in your life, or faith you find in the verse
• Use the Unto All Generations Books to find a scripture that is appropriate for your page, then, cross-reference that verse with different versions to find one that best fits the pictures and page 
• Since that day my son asked me the question, I have asked many people if they have favorite verses in specific versions ~ and, it has been interesting and touching to hear their responses.  Next time you are sitting around the dinner table or at a family gathering ask the question and jot down the answers to put beside the pictures of those individuals or from that events

His Word has so much power ~ be sure to include it in your albums, no matter what version!

He's Every Season

With the move to Houston, I think I am some mild mourning for my Ohioan change of seasons.  :~)   Fall is the absolute most beautiful time of year.  It reminds me we serve a God of enormous creativity and love.

I heard this song today, and, thought it'd be a great one on a page with pictures of my home in the changing seasons. 

To deepen the faith in the page, include journaling:

• How the Lord has guided you through your seasons of life.
• How has the Lord made you a new creation
• Pick a stanza or verse that touches you and journal additional details
• Include details about your favorite season and why

Every Season by Nicole Nordeman (this can be heard here if you scroll down to the This Mystery Album and click beside Every Season)

Every evening sky, an invitation
To trace the patterned stars
And early in July, a celebration
For freedom that is ours
And I notice You
In children's games
In those who watch them from the shade
Every drop of sun is full of fun and wonder
You are summer

And even when the trees have just surrendered
To the harvest time
Forfeiting their leaves in late September
And sending us inside
Still I notice You when change begins
And I am braced for colder winds
I will offer thanks for what has been and was to come
You are autumn

And everything in time and under heaven
Finally falls asleep
Wrapped in blankets white, all creation
Shivers underneath
And still I notice you
When branches crack
And in my breath on frosted glass
Even now in death, You open doors for life to enter
You are winter

And everything that's new has bravely surfaced
Teaching us to breathe
What was frozen through is newly purposed
Turning all things green
So it is with You
And how You make me new
With every season's change
And so it will be
As You are re-creating me
Summer, autumn, winter, spring

SBB Welcomes 2008

Yes, Scrapbookers Bubble Bath is still active, and, will continue to bring you faithbooking inspiration.  The end of 2007 and beginning of 2008 brought many changes and I had to put my passion on the back burner for a just little while.  But, as you can see, my beauty remains as breathtaking as ever!!  :~)

2007 was a year of amazing changes and challenges!  And I am sure 2008 will be just as exciting!

The name and domain "Scrapbookers Bubble Bath" just celebrated its 4th birthday on January 29th ~ Wow, that is so hard for me to believe!  What a blessing that silly name has been to me and what an impact it has made on my life.  I pray our vision has blessed you and helped you leave little splashes of eternity in your albums!

During the time that I was visiting Houston, the next place we will be settling ~ I spent much time in prayer about where the Lord wants Scrapbookers Bubble Bath to go and what my focus should be.  Not only is my family in transition, but, I believe SBB needs a new face and focus.  To be honest, no matter what I do or where my eyes wander, I keep coming back home to my passion of helping others get His Word in our albums.

I believe whether we scrap as a fancy Fay, a plain Jane, or a wordy Wilma, our albums are the best place for us to make an eternal impact for our family.

So, there'll be some changes ~ but, you will see the focus remain of leaving a legacy for eternity.  The changes will be simplified sites, more sharing among yourselves, and, hopefully, easier searching for ideas and inspiration.  These alterations may be slow, but, they will be all towards one goal ~ helping you make an ETERNAL IMPACT through your albums.

Now to the first order of business for 2008:  With excitement, I have decided to lower the prices of the Unto All Generation Series to make them more available to more scrappers.  They are currently available as downloads and CDs.  You can purchase them here. 

• Volume III ~ $6.99 download, $8.99 CD
• Volume I & II ~ $10.99 download, $12.99 CD
• Volume I, II, & III ~ $15.99 download, $17.99 CD

The next change you will see within the next week is some changes to the actual Scrapbookers Bubble Bath website.  Some of those pages have been unchanged since SBB was first born 3 years ago ~ I'm thinkin' the old girl needs some updates :~)

This site (Faithbooking Inspirations) will continue to provide ideas, links, and inspiration with the intent to give you a wonderful resource for quick searches and page ideas during those moments of cropper's block. If you are not subscribed to receive posts directly in your email box, be sure to sign up to the right. 

Again ~ as I have said so many times ~ thanks for being a part of SBB and for blessing my life.  I pray this next year finds us creating pages of legacy and eternity that will just rock this world for Him!!

You're a Mom!

I found a great Christmas present for your kids ~ as well as some great words for our scrapbooks.

The Go Fish Guys is an amazing group with a mission to create "Great music for kids that won't drive parents bonkers".  You can hear some clips from their CDs here.  We found these guys earlier this week, and, my kids are hooked.  Their newest CD ~ Snazzy can be heard in the next town over as my kids jam down the road.  The cool thing, is, I find myself singing right along with them ~ and, it is music and words that is perfect for ears of all ages!

Below, I have included the words to "You're a Mom" ~ You can imagine how my heart was touched to hear all 4 'jamming' and singing the words at the top of their lungs. 

These words would be great along side a picture of a mom with here kids, perhaps surrounded by toys or kids.  Journal how the words make you feel as a mom, or about your own mother.  What special things make you know you are a mom?  In what ways did your mom let you know she loved you?  How has being a mother changed your life?  How does the Bible help you / show you how to shape these little souls?  Journal your passion for your children to take up the Bible and your desire to show its teachings in your own life.

I have the words typed out in Word and will use them on the next page with pix of me and my kids ~ with these lines highlighted! The Bible that you hold Can shape these little souls.

You also can check out 2 great videos from the Go Fish Guys: Christmas with a Capital C is cute, and It's About the Cross is powerful!

May you Moms Enjoy!!  :~)

You're a Mom ~ by The Go Fish Guys

If you have a stroller

But you’re still a rock and roller

You’re a mom

If you’re tired of doing dishes

And you know who Elmo’s fish is

You’re a mom

(Chorus)

You’re the boss, the driver

The ultimate survivor

A doctor, a cooker

You’re man thinks you’re a looker

If you work all day

But you never get paid

You’re a mom

If you need a sick day

But instead you’re gonna play

You’re a mom

If your first occupation

Sounds like a sweet vacation

You’re a mom

If your living room floor

Looks like a toy store

You’re a mom

(Chorus)

You’re the boss, the driver

The ultimate survivor

A doctor, a cooker

You’re man thinks you’re a looker

If you work all day

But you never get paid

You’re a mom

If you mean the whole world

To a little boy or girl

You’re a mom

The Bible that you hold

Can shape these little souls

You’re a mom

If you have the most important job in the world

You’re a mom

A Scrapbooker's Christmas List

It's Christmas ~ and, us Scrapbookers have a list too :~) 

So, I thought I'd send Scrapbookers Bubble Bath's annual Scrapbookers Christmas List of Links and gift ideas for you to pass on to YOUR Santa.

Of course, the most exciting for me personally is the Unto All Generations Series ~ Available December 7th in all 3 formats: as a download, auto-run CD, and printed.  The CDs are very economical and make great gifts to wrap up for your favorite Scrapbooker.

Also, don't forget that Christian FaithScrappers will be open any day ~ ready for you to shop for Christian Scrapbooking Supplies as gifts to put under the tree ~ perhaps pick up even a few for yourself :~)

Here is a list of some great prices on Scrapping Products ~ You're sure to find something for your list here ~ at a great price!  :~)  (Of course there is no way this list can be all inclusive, and, I know there are lots of sites I am missing, so, if you have any other you'd like to share, please just click down to the comments, and, add your favorite place to shop.)

• Memory Miser ~ great place for die-cutting supplies
• Frugalities ~ kinda fun place ~ different discounts daily up to 49%!!
• Scrapbook Corner ~ great selection and good prices
• Custom Crops ~ I like her prices and colors :~)

The Scrapsack is a nifty little bag and helpful for those who travel and scrap.

If you don't have the Cricut by ProvoCraft ~ it is a must have! I just love mine, and, wish I had more time to play with it :~) I have seen that even some Wal-Marts are selling them for $118 with a limited edition cartridge!

And now, ProvoCraft keeps dipping into our pockets: tempting us with cooler and better products.....

First, the Cricut Design Studio ~ this program allows you to hook your cricut to the computer and play even more ~ amazing, and, with ENDLESS possibilities!

Of course, the list of over 40 cartridges is too endless to mention, but, if you have a Princess lover, there are 2 new Disney Princess cartridges, as well as awesome font cartridges for fall and winter.  I've heard that AC Moore and even Wal-Mart are carrying these, so, shop around for the good sales.

There are now Colored Markers available to use with your Cricut instead of the cutting blade ~ the machine will draw a colored line where it would have made a cut!

And, finally, and, biggest of all, there is now The Expression which can cut up to 23.5 inch letters as well as do some completely cool tricks!  Can we say Scrapbooker's Gluttony?   Well, perhaps you can justify it by making a few BIG Happy Birthday and Anniversary signs for your husband :~) 

Here are some of the best prices I've heard and seen to find the Cricut products on your list: 

• Hallmark Scrapbook ~ I think the Cricut product prices are one of the best you will find ~ The Expression is only $299 here! I also have read good things about their customer service on message boards.
• Wal-Mart ~ If you are lucky enough to find them, some of their cartridges are at $30!
• BargainPack ~ Through December their Design Studio looks like it is the cheapest at $59!!
• Creative Express ~ they have cartridges on sale: buy 4 get each for $27
• AC Moore ~ I have read that they are selling The Expression for $299 to $379, AND, it comes with 4 cartridges, a set of markers and a mat!!!  If you have one near you, keep your eyes open for that SUPER sale.  If you DO have one near you, I'm jealous :~)
• E-Bay ~ If you do not have the personal Cricut, there are some Cricut addicts that bought the Wal-Mart exclusive package, took out the special cartridge, and, now need to sell the new machine on E-bay before their husbands find out :~)  You can get a great deal there ~ just do it in the next week or so before they sell all their stashes.

That's all the deal sharing I have for you this year ~ next year I will be typing my Scrapbooker's Christmas List of Links in warmer weather :~)

**** PS ~ For Faithbooking Inspirations subscribers ~ for some reason, the last post, (Our Scrapbooks ~ Our Love Letters) didn't go out to my email box ~ if you didn't receive it either, here is the link.  It is an important reminder of why we scrapbook and have these Christmas Lists :~)

Our Scrapbooks ~ Our Love Letters

Last week I was going through a little book my mom had kept of my school days.  Although the last entry was from 30 years ago, oddly enough, stuck away in a page, I found a quick note she'd written in 2004 before her life changed drastically and she'd become ill. 

It was quickly written, in pencil, on a plain note card ~ but, what a treasure it is!  She'd just taken 5 minutes to write down her love for me, her pride in the woman I'd become and, most importantly, her security in Heaven.  I read those words with tears of love for this woman who had been such a beautiful model for my life, and appreciation that she took the time to write her thoughts.

Since that moment I read that precious note, I don't think a waking hour has gone by that I have not thought about that little piece of paper ~ And, thanked the Lord for the couple moments my mom took to leave those words for me.

If you question the importance of your albums in your loved one's lives ~ think of what a gift a few written words from a lost loved one would be to you.

If you doubt the time is well spent to journal your faith, love, and prayers ~ think of the impact those words and pages will have on your future generations.

If you feel like your albums are just not fancy enough or pretty enough ~ please realize the beauty of quickly penciled words on a plain note card.

If you haven't taken the opportunity to journal your thoughts in your albums ~ begin to view your albums as Love Letters to your loved ones and future generations.

Girls, these scrapbooks don't need to be fancy ~ they just need to be from our heart.

I pray my albums can become even a tiny fraction of the gift that this simple note card has become to me!

Supercalifragilistic news

The Lord is so amazing!

In a beautiful turn of events the Lord has worked to keep the Faithbooking Store open by a new owner!!!

This has been such a blessing to me to see how He has worked to keep His Word in our albums through Christian Scrapbooking Supplies.  He does have a plan and purpose for our albums ~ and, He miraculously works to see that plan fulfilled!

So, while Christian FaithScrappers will be in its early stages over the next few weeks, I want to be sure you all hear the supercalifragilistic news so you have an opportunity to spread the big news around the table this Thanksgiving week as you eat turkey and share love with your families! :~)

A couple quick tidbits:

• As I have spoken with her, I believe the new owner has a beautiful vision for the store and I am excited to see where she takes it.
• We will be working closely together, so, you will continue to get a few updates and news from the store, as well as be able to get there easily from the other Scrapbookers Bubble Bath sites.
• The new owner is offering a Free Gift with Purchase for all orders placed through November 30th.
• Since the goodies are still in transition between our two homes, all orders will begin being shipped Monday, December 3rd.

So, spread the word, stop on over, and, shop till your fingers drop for yourself and Christmas gifts for your favorite crafter!

I so believe the Lord had this timing for the two of us for a purpose ~ We both are extremely excited to see where He has brought us and where He will take us.  As a team, we will be able to provide the ideas, inspiration, and, products you need to Leave a Legacy Unto All Generations!!

Ordinary Miracles

"Pleasure can be found in the world's ordinary miracles"

I found this on the top of a Daisy Sour Cream container, and, thought it would be a beautiful saying in our scrapbooks!

I took this picture on a hike with the kids ~ it's a weed ~ but, man, it was just so beautiful, and, lavender :~)

Our day and world is full of ordinary miracles ~ May you take pleasure in them this week and the rest of the holiday season!

Often, our albums are full of the 'special' days and moments, however, we must be sure to catch the everyday and ordinary part of our lives ~ Truly, those moments are more what make us who we are than the big, special ones.  As I mentioned in a post in 2006 ~ The Mundane is the Legacy Too. 

Use this saying:

• In the front of an album
• A page of 'a day in the life of' pictures
• Nature
• Our family that we so often take for granted
• Before and after of anything from a room, to weight loss, to graduation, to the growth of a child
• A time in your life when the Lord revealed a specific plan for you
• Anything in your life that the Lord shows you is part of His beautiful and wildly amazing world

Cherished Memories Jewelry

I'm just passing on an awesome Christmas gift idea :~)

My neighbor owns Cherished Memories Jewelry, and, has created beautiful pieces ~ many I have on my "To Get List".

The necklaces and bracelets are one of a kind since they are made with pictures of your loved ones.  And, I promise you, the quality is amazing ~ I feel so rich when I wear mine!!  :~)  I plan on getting one of every color eventually!

She snuck around, took pictures of my kids, and made Pretty Purple for my 40th birthday ~ sometimes I wear purple just so I can wear my bracelet ~ and, of course, I have the Sugar and Spice ordered to match Scrapbookers Bubble Bath!

Her newest piece is the Forever Faithful ~ a wonderful opportunity to share your faith as well as your legacy of family and love.

These pieces are perfect ways to take our "scrapbook subjects" with us ~

So, stop over, shop around, and, get a few for Christmas gifts and, of course, a few for you!  :~)

Capture Fall!

I have just found out that Houston doesn't have the beautiful fall that Ohio has!!  Man, are they missing out on such beauty or what!

Fall in my part of the world is such a beautifully breathtaking time of year ~ if I doubt His creativity, all I need do is peek out my window today.

Since I won't be seeing it again, I created my own fall tree in my son for Halloween ~ kinda funny to see him up against the trees.  My little hot-glued fake pile of leaves held up pretty good to all the candy-begging.  :~)

Fall has the most amazing combinations of colors in His world ~ be sure to capture them in one way or another in your albums.

For ideas on on how to use and preserve the beauty of leaves in your album read Get Those Leaves Quick and Colorful Leaf Copies

In your albums, take the opportunity to journal your feelings about nature. Our loved ones will see Him if they read our words of love and awe for His creation:

• Look around your area of the world and take pictures of how you know fall is here.
• If you don't have the changing leaves in your part of the world, journal your desire to experience the beauty and how you feel when you see pictures of fall.
• Do you have any special fall memories as a child?
• What do you believe the Lord is saying through the beauty of fall?
• Do you have a favorite tree to see or place to visit in the fall?
• Do you / did you like jumping in leaves?  Any special memories of leaf piles and raking?
• Don't forget to use scripture about His creation ~ Look up Nature in your Unto All Generations
• The grass withers and the flowers fall, but the word of our Lord stands forever ~ Isaiah 40:8
• Creation and Creatures applaud you, GOD ~ Psalm 145:10

One quick P.S. about the Eternal Splashes store ~ since I paid the host through November, I figured I'd leave it open through November 30th.  So, pass on the word and, perhaps do some great Christmas shopping for your favorite scrapper.  For wonderful faithbooking supplies for your fall pictures, check out the Crossed Paths Harvest Line.

Eternal Splashes Store

**Since I paid for the host through November, the store will be open through November 30th ~ be sure to Christmas shop early :~)

Hope everyone enjoyed your trick or treating ~ once I get the pix downloaded, I'll share some thoughts I had as I walked with the kids last night and saw all the costumes.

I'm sure by now you have all gotten the message that we are in transition, and, my husband is in Houston.

This all came at the time I was trying to get the Eternal Spashes store up and running, and, I really believed I could "do it all".

However, I think I am finding that with my husband gone and homeschooling my children, I have a little less of me to spread around, and, something must be put on hold....

I have struggled with this decision more than any of you would ever know.  My dream has been to be your "one-stop" for Faithbooking Inspiration, ideas, and products.  And, perhaps one day, that can still happen, but, for today, and probably well into next year, I believe I must turn my eyes to my family first ~ they are the ones who gave me this passion in the first place.

Having said that ~ I really think I am going to put the Eternal Splashes scrapbooking products store on hold.  I am not sure when, or, even if, I will follow the idea of selling the products again.  I only can make the decision for today, and, put it all back in His Hands for tomorrow.

Scrapbookers Bubble Bath is my passion and love:  Unto all Generations is what started all this: Christian Scrapbooking will be such an amazing point of sharing among you all:  And, here, Faithbooking Inspirations has been a blessing to many of us ~ These sites and products are where I will put my focus for now. 

The SBB Store name will change to Eternal Splashes, and, the Unto All Generations will stay there ~ perhaps I will put some scrapping products up there at some point, but, the store I purchased will be closing down by the end of next week.  So, yep, that means Clearance Sale!!!  :~)   I put everything at 35% off so there isn't so much product to stick in the moving truck.  So, take advantage of it this weekend.

Since the programmers at the web-host never got the work done, this is a good time to transition, before they put more time into it .....Perhaps the Lord knew that for me to see my store up there as I dreamed would make it even harder to shut it down :~)

I type this with tears of sadness that it must be done, yet peace that the Lord knows my heart and my desire to serve Him and my family first.  I believe sometimes we have to do what is difficult for ourselves to make it right for others ~ and, I figure once my kids are grown, I'll have all the time in the world to play with and sell papers and stickers :~)

So, that is a long way of saying, the store is on sale, grab it quick while you can (don't forget Christmas shopping), and, know that I try to serve Him in every area of my life, and, if He leads me another way, I'll go down it :~) 

Annual Halloween E-Cards

E-cards are frequently ending up in my email ~ it is my kids little way of saying anything from "Hi", to "Sorry", to "Can we make cookies".

And, Mama's Little Vampire can be found anytime of the year ~ but, especially many times a day around October 31st!

So, in honor of my kids, I thought I'd share our Annual 3 favorite Halloween E-Cards

Take lots of pictures tomorrow, and, enjoy the time with your children!

Here are some page ideas using these e-cards I have posted previously, and, here are more links to e-card suppliers

Our Favorite Halloween E-Cards ~ these will make any Mama laugh!

• Mama's Little Vampire
• Knock Knock Ghost:  Boo Hoo?
• Knock Knock Ghost:  Interrupting Ghost

***And, by the way while you sort through and eat all that candy ~ try creating a page with your favorite candy wrapper

He is "I Am"

Thought I'd share my page created from the "I Am" He Keeps Us Devotional just to encourage you to sit down and make one of your own.

I journaled what His name means to me, as well as a few other names I whisper as I pray and go through my day.

There are so many songs that speak the beauty of His name ~ they all say it so much better than I could ever express on my own....

I had two options ~ make a video of me singing them.....however, with the extreme lack of talent, my fear is that no one would ever look at my albums again :~)

Instead, I thought it better to choose to make a CD of others singing my favorite versions of "Something About That Name", "His Name is Wonderful", "Your Name", "I Am", etc.

Two ideas to point out:

1. Create a page focusing on the Name of Jesus, or His names you most treasure ~ if you need the I Am Devotional, just email me, and, I'll send it your way
2. Burn CDs for any music you would like to include in your albums for special songs, or songs used to create pages such as some of these posted earlier: 

• Why ~ For You and Your Legacy
• Your Growin' Up Music
• My Wish
• Special Songs for Special Someone

Make a pocket for the CD, or use the paper CD sleeves you can get at any office store to include a CD of songs from your childhhod, dating times, worship songs, favorite songs, most cherished hymns, etc.

Of course, not sure how long the CDs will work with the progress of our world ~ I'm sure there will come a day when they will be as outdated as 8-tracks, but, they'll be treasured even then :~) 

He Loves Us ~ And, He Showed It

A couple months ago I agreed to do a small 'break-out session' for a faithbooking retreat a few hours away......Anyone who knows me knows that this was a huge step for me, since speaking in front of groups is one of my top 2 fears, right up there with flying!!

And, in the Lord's "I have a plan for you" way, and, unknowing to me, I evolved into the featured speaker for the retreat ~ yikes!  :~)

But, I must share with you that this little "misunderstanding" has blessed my life beyond words.....

As I have prepared for the weekend sessions, I have had a renewed sense of passion and urgency for us to share our stories, faith and legacy.  We MUST record our love for our family and Christ ~ whether it be in our albums or simple journals, get that love documented!

Most touching to me has been creating the pages for the session in which I was asked to share the gospel.  What started as a complete humble panic for me has touched my heart in beatutiful ways.  As I have made pages that perhaps Christ would make, were HE a scrapbooker, I have been reminded and amazed by His love for me, and all the world.  His love for us was so much greater than we can even begin to imagine ~ While we try to express our love through our albums, He did it so much more beautifully on the cross.

Have you created a page to share the depth of HIS love for you and your family? 

• It can be as simple as a picture of the cross and a scripture such as John 3:16.
• Do an internet image search of Christ, Jesus, or the Cross
• Print a copy of a cross and share the story of His life / love / gift
• There are a few pictures from the Passion of the Christ movie that can help bring a reality to your page that may touch someone in a special way
• Use drawings of Christ with children to journal His love for His children
• Use one of With You Always drawings for you or your loved one's profession and share His love and presence is with us always ~ I LOVE these!!  Take a quick moment to read the artist's story
• Write a letter to your family or each of your loved ones from Him

In absolutely NO way do I think we can even begin to verbalize or document the depth of His love for us. However, I do believe we can use His Story to make an eternal impact through our albums.  The pictures and moments of Christ's birth, life, death and resurrection are ones that we can, and, MUST share with future generations.

He showed His love for us through the cross ~ share that Story in your albums and journals ~ it WILL impact someone's life for eternity.

Jesus and the Twin Towers

I just found this on the web while looking for pictures to use for a Faithbooking weekend I am speaking at, and, thought I'd share it ~ Wish I'd had it for the September 11 Posts.

This would be a beautiful picture to print and use on your page to tell your September 11, 2001 story.

If you already made a page using previous suggestions, and you still would like to use the picture, perhaps use some other suggestions below:

• **Journal how 9-11-01 continues to impact your life now
• **Share how your believe He works even in the seemingly most difficult moments
• **Journal your thoughts on the war ~ include your prayer for the country

This picture was found on Deacon Tony's Place

He Wants to be Your EVERYTHING

He Wants to be Your EVERYTHING!                 (click to view video)

In you albums, have you shared what Christ defeated for you?

While He blesses us through the birthdays and gatherings, He blesses us by defeating the things that draw us away from Him, His beauty, and His love.

Take the time to create a page to share the victories you have in Christ ~ For someone in your family, that very page may be the most important one you will ever make......

** I do apologize to those who subscribe to Held By Him where I shared this as well ~ I just thought is was so powerful and wanted to hit as many as I could with it :~)

It's October!!!

Did you know it is October!!??!!

I'm not sure where September went, but, I think I spent most of it under homeschooling books and packed boxes!

And, sometime during that time my web-host "upgraded" my shopping cart for the Unto All Generations Books ~ I think I missed that email :~)  So, if you tried to purchase any of the books and couldn't get to them ~ you are not crazy, I just didn't realize not only was the color scheme changed, but, the links were all disconnected during the upgrade!

It is "Scrapbooking Season", and, it is time to start making those pages full of faith and legacy, so, I thought I'd set the Unto All Generations on the Annual "It's Scrapbooking Season!!" Sale.  The sale is effective now through October 10th ~ these are always the best prices of the year, so, get them while they're cheap :~)

I know these links work now guys, I am so sorry!!! :~)

Purchase these now, and, download them before your weekend cropping!

** Unto All Generations Volume I & II: Scriptures for Scrapbooking ~ $24.99....Purchase for $14.99!!!

** Unto All Generations Volume III: A Legacy for Eternity ~ $17.99....Purchase for $9.99!!!

** Keep an eye out for the upcoming "It's Scrapbooking Season!!" Sale at Eternal Splashes next week!

The homeschooling schedule is set, the closets are nice and neat for showing the house, and, the husband is out the door to Texas :~) 

As I breathe a sigh of relief, I am excited to get the scrappin' supplies out and get cropping with you guys again!  :~)

My Day on That Day

I, along with others, awoke this morning with mixed emotions as we face the first Tuesday, September 11th since 2001.

For months, I feared Tuesdays ~ that was a day that we were all changed forever.

Be sure to take time to make a page for your family about that day ~ Here is a post with some ideas to get you started.  If you didn't do it then, do it this year.

That day changed each of us ~ share it with future generations.

** Here is the link to an amazing picture I found in October that you can use on your page

Texas??!!??!!

It will be one year on September 12th since we received our keys for our current home ~ and, hard to believe that there is now a "For Sale Sign" in my front yard!  I guess this is what I get for telling my husband I wasn't moving again :~)

I am sure you are wondering what has been going on with SBB and where I have been......

I am just passing on the scoop that in the last couple weeks, there has been a slight change in plans, and, we will be moving to Houston as soon as our house sells.  Yep, I did say Houston, all the way from the Cleveland Ohio area!

So, bear with me for another couple weeks as SBB, its sites and store are in a holding pattern while I scoot my husband out the door to start his new job.  Then, I will be able to get lots of work done on the sites since he won't be around to tell me not to stay up so late!  :~)

The last couple weeks has been filled with lots of "Ohio Lasts" and revisiting some special memories.

If you find yourself facing a new path, be sure to take pictures and make some quick Journey Jots to make some special pages later. 

October 1st will be our new target date for all sites and the store to be up and running as I'd like it to be.  Until then, check out our home pages, watch our construction come to completion, and, think of me as I get my husband ready to find his socks and do his own laundry :~)

• Scrapbookers Bubble Bath
• Christian Scrapbooking ~ Check out the NEW Christian Scrapbooking Directory to help you enjoy your cruising around our sites
• Christian Scrapbooking Supplies
• Eternal Splashes Store

It's Coming Soon!

I still own IT ~ and, as you can see, I am still just as beautiful as when I got IT......

But, wow, for some reason just looking at the computer didn't get the work done as I thought my beauty would!

While the Eternal Splashes store is set for its grand opening September 2nd, there have been quite a few unanticipated bumps in the road ~ I think we are managing to get over them one by one, but, what a battle it's been! 

I am excited to see how Christian Scrapbooking is turning out, and, am praying that the pages will inspire you ~ I have the next 6 months charted out for it, and, I promise you will be blessed by those I have met as they share their stories of faith and creativity.

I am gonna ask if you can hang with me, as the store background re-construction will not be completed ~ that is the hands of others so, I am in a waiting pattern right now.

I do suggest you sign up for the Eternal Splashes newsletter (again, although it says FAITHscrappers, it will be Eternal Splashes).  It's kinda like signing up for the Jo-Anns Sales Flyer ~ you just never know when you will get a sale notification :~)

In the meantime, shop the large selection of Crossed Paths and Pure-D-Scripture that are currently on sale ~ and, check back September 2nd as we reveal our newest web-site and take the next step in this wild path He has charted for us.

And, by the way, I am offering consultations for those who desire my kind of rare beauty!   :~) 

What a Wonderful World

Just sharing something pretty amazing ~ If only I could be so talented :~)

Today, may you find yourself able to stop and enjoy What a Wonderful World we have

Scrapbooking Inspiration from this....hmmmm.....how about:

"In your albums be sure to share, and encourage others, to appreciate the beauty and wonder of the simple things in this world"

You are Entering a Construction Zone...

You are entering a major construction zone!

As Scrapbookers Bubble Bath approaches its second birthday, we are frantically working to provide more ideas, products and inspiration.  You know, scrapbooking season 2007-2008 is rapidly approaching!

The blueprints have been created while watching football practice and the alarms are being set for earlier mornings to allow the work to get completed as planned.

While our new store's grand opening isn't until September 2nd, we are open for business, as long as you can scroll over the dust and maneuver your way around unfinished pages.

Here is the latest updates from the foreman forewoman on the project ~ she appears extremely excited about the changes!  However, she may need to claim workmen's comp for thumb pain from typing, clicking, deleting and scrolling.  :~)

Stop by, excuse the dust and address all comments to the SBB forewoman. 

And, be sure to visit again soon as the blueprints on napkins and scratch paper become your favorite places to visit for inspiration to leave little Splashes for Eternity!

Scrapbookers Bubble Bath ~ Not many changes here, just some cleaning up and linking to the new projects.  This will remain the central site and headquarters for the other satellite offices.

Christian Scrapbooking Supplies ~ Newly revealed today since it is in the final stages of completion!!!  This product focused office has the mission to share news and ideas about the products and manufacturers in our store.  **The galleries will be in a constant state of renovation, so, take a picture of your favorite pages and craft works, and, send them in.

Christian Scrapbooking ~ The blueprints are in the final completion stages.  This purpose focused office has the mission to share community and inspiration from other scrapbookers and crafters

Eternal Splashes ~ The backhoes, dump trucks and cranes have been called in here.  Eternal Splashes is SBB's newly acquired store for providing Christian focused supplies for your crafting.  There are only a couple aisles open, but we will allow you in as other aisles are completed and the products are shelved.  While we prepare for the grand opening, all Crossed Paths products are 10% off and Pure-D-Scripture Stickers are 30% off, so, ignore the dust, and, shop now :~) 

Well, the crew is waking up, and, the tasks of laundry and hugs call the forewoman to her priority job of mothering.  The blueprints will be picked back up tomorrow morning ~ Enjoy your visit and, watch your cursor's step as you enter SBB's exciting construction zone!

Lost in This Moment With You

 

Lost in This Moment With You ~ as an excited and proud dad takes his daughter to her dream store to give her a special birthday gift

Lost in This Moment With You ~ as a grandpa, who lives far away, celebrates his birthday with his precious grandchildren

Lost in This Moment with You ~ as a son runs home to show his dad that he received dad's jersey number

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

As I woke this morning trying to think of the next post because I'm working on something behind the scenes that I am not ready to reveal yet :~),  the lyrics to Lost in This Moment With You by Big and Rich were running through my head.

This is a perfect wedding song, so, of course, the lyrics would be beautiful in the front of an album or with pictures of the groom, but, I had a thought......

There are so many other moments that we get lost in with our loved ones ~ Here are just a few I thought of.  Do you have any others?  Share yours in the comments below!

• The birth of a child
• The moment two have reached a goal that has been a work in progress
• The first day in a new home
• Giving a special gift to a loved one
• See, the pictures are endless

Use "Lost in This Moment With You" as a title, then journal why that moment is so special.  Journal the feelings, journey, pride, words and details of the picture and situation.

I have also included the lyrics to the song below in case you want to copy and paste them in a wedding album or engagement page.

And, what am I working on behind the scenes?  I ain't tellin' until at least the first part if it is done :~)

*******************************

Lost in Your Moment With You by Big and Rich

See your momma, and the candles and tears and roses
I see your daddy walk his daughter down the isle
Now my knees start to tremble as I tell the preacher
Don’t she look beautiful tonight
All the wonderful words in my head I’ve been thinking
You know I want to say ‘em all just right
I lift your vale, and angles start singing
Such a heavenly sign

Chorus
Lost in this moment with you
I am completely consumed
My feelings so absolute, there’s no doubt
Sealing our love with a kiss
Waitin’ my whole life for this
Watching all my dreams come true
Lost in this moment with you

I smell the jasmine floating in the air like a love song
Watch my words draw sweet tears from your eyes
Bow our heads while the preacher talks to Jesus
Please bless this brand new life

Chorus
Lost in this moment with you
I am completely consumed
My feelings so absolute, there’s no doubt
Sealing our love with a kiss
Waitin’ my whole life for this
Watching all my dreams come true
Lost in this moment with you

I Own IT!!!

Thought I'd take a picture of myself this morning.....

Why are you laughing??.....

I think I just look joyously beautiful!!!.....

Why do I look like this you ask?.....

How can you too get this look of pure elation?..... (I know, you are jealous)

I could barely sleep last night because, we are now the proud owners of the Christian Scrapbooking.com domain!!! 

After many months of waiting, and a few nail-biting hours of bidding, I was able to call my dad in the hospital and let him know we now own our most coveted domain!

So, now I've gotta get these domains we have snatched up attached to web pages ~ but, with beauty like mine, I figure just looking at the computer will automatically crash the computer complete the pages!

Oh yeah, and, how can you get your own priceless look?.....

Get your own domain ~ I ain't giving mine away!!!   :~)

Thank You!

Just a quick entry to say THANK YOU for your prayers, comments and emails!  You guys are amazing, and, your prayers were powerful.

I was so humbled by your response and words, and, it was very comforting for him to know that there were those praying literally around the world!

My dad did well, and, is on his way to recovery ~ what a miracle that present day medicine can perform such complicated surgeries.

On his way to surgery they put a silver shower cap on his head, and, he said, "You should take a picture for your scrapbook" ~ now, that's my dad!  :~)

As we looked at some albums last night, I found this poem, and, thought I'd pass it on.  Write it down, put it with your scrappping or card making supplies.

Papa Doesn't Care

My ice cream dripped on his good pants, but Papa doesn't care.

His fishing tackles tangled up, his rod is who knows where?

I lost his keys in the garage, Ive made a mess out there.

I'm always getting into things, but Papa doesn't care.

I help him in the garden 'cause we're really quite a pair;

I pull the plants out with the weeds, but Papa doesn't care.

When I'm grown and on my own, when visits become rare,

I won't forget the love I'd get when Papa didn't care.  (author unknown)

I typed this in Word, changed the font to a children's handwriting font, and used this under a picture of my kids fishing with my dad ~ perfect!

Again, thanks so much for your prayers guys ~ you are amazing, and, touched us with your words!

A Special Request

I have to admit I type this entry with a somewhat heavy and kinda scared heart.....and, with a special prayer request...

My father has been taken to the hospital with chest pains, and, we have learned that he will need quadruple bypass surgery.  With of course, the next 24 - 48 hours being pretty crucial.

I share this with you because I know there are many prayer warriors that subscribe to Faithbooking Inspirations, and, because, if you are reading this, then, this wonderful man has touched your life.....

He was the one who encouraged me to pursue the website, taught me sooo much about the web, helped me name Scrapbookers Bubble Bath, and, designed each of the Unto All Generations books. 

He has been my encourager and my teacher through the last couple years as I have seen SBB grow and have continued to follow where I believed the Lord wanted me to take SBB and, now Eternal Splashes.

He has been such a special man to so many people, that I'd take hours to explain, and only begin to go down the list.

And, he's my dad.  :~)

While I face the next few weeks with quite a few mountains, as my mom needs much care, I do feel the Lord's peace and power, and, I take rest in the fact that God is God ~ period.

I'm not one to ask for prayer or send out requests, but, this one is a biggy, and, I believe my dad has impacted each of your lives in some way as well ~ so, I thought you'd like to help me gather His angels and send them to Southwest General in Middleburg Hts, Ohio :~)

May you each feel His presence today and this week and, thanks so much for being a part of our lives!

HE Makes the Birds Sing!

It is no secret in my family I am a bird lover!  They are so free, and, depend solely on His provision and guidance for their every need. 

In fact, my kids can identify the calls and makes of many birds ~ guess I am wearing off on them :~)

This morning as I sat on my deck, listening to the morning singing from my winged friends, I read His praises in Psalm 104, and, found this:

"The birds of the air nest by the waters; they sing among the branches" (Psalm 104:12)

What a perfect verse for a page with pictures of birds!  Not sure how I missed it for the Unto All Generations ~ Scriptures for Scrapbooking series, so, you may want to add it at the bottom or back of a page in Animals or Nature / Creation.

And, for my fellow bird-watchers, here are some journaling ideas to add to your pages with your bird pictures:

• Journal why you enjoy birds
• What made you first interested in bird-watching?
• Which bird species is your favorite?  Why?
• What has been your most exciting / favorite sighting?  Why?
• How do you feel when you hear their song?
• How do you feel when your family members share in your excitement / watching?
• Which bird seed and feeder do you favor?  For which birds?
• Do you have a field guide?  Which one?  Why?
• Journal your prayer to be like the birds and have your own complete dependence on Him for your every need

** I love this picture ~ it is an American Goldfinch in spring, just beginning to get his beautiful bright yellow summer coat ~ isn't God amazing!

Oops on the Sticker Sale :~)

Just a quick entry to say "Oops and sorry" about the Pure-D-Scripture pricing ~ I did not click the right button for the sale, and, so, when you guys attempted to purchase, it did come up as full price.

So, now that the orders are coming in, and, the sale price is right, just wanted to let you know that I changed it to being on sale for $1.50 through Saturday - that should make up for my mess up. 

I am sorry to any of you who clicked multiple stickers to find the sale, and, I will be more careful what I click next time :~)

Have a super rest of the week!

New Galleries!!

OK girls ~ I've been working since 4 a.m. this morning, and, I just have to share my excitement!  The SBB Galleries are well under construction, and, are turning out better than I had thought :~)

I still have more pictures of page submissions to include, but, these Galleries are beginning to take shape and be an exciting part of the changes coming to Scrapbookers Bubble Bath!

There will be some created for specific manufactures to help you with ideas for using product from our coming store, Eternal Splashes.  However, the purpose of these Galleries are more to provide inspiration and ideas to help you leave your own legacy. 

So, click away, be inspired, then, go ahead and send me your own pictures so I can get up next Saturday with something to do :~)

** The list of galleries is currently in the right column (Photo Albums) of this site ~ They will eventually be a little easier to find, but, that will take some different formatting, perhaps that will be the next 4 a.m. venture.  For now, the list of galleries at the time of publication of this entry is also below:

Cards ~ Cards created from our scrapbooking supply stashes

Pure-D-Scripture ~ Cards and pages created with Pure-D-Scriptures Stickers .... I just got these in the mail as our first product in the store, and, I am so excited to try these myself!  With the new release of this gallery, the stickers will remain on sale through July 25th.

Scripture Inspirations ~ Simple examples of how God's Word can be used in our albums

Scrapbooking Inspiration ~ An accumulation of all scrapbook pages in the SBB Galleries.  A few clicks, and, hopefully your stickers and papers will come back out and you'll be inspired to create your own pages of legacy!

Gifts and Household Decor ~ This one is still small, but, I have seen some amazing creations with scrapbooking supplies ~ does anyone have their own pictures?

Holidays ~ In an attempt to make your inspiration a little more organized, there will be a couple seperate subject galleries... any requests?

Well, the little ones are getting up, and, I think I am stuck to this chair ~ guess I should shut this down for now and pass out the Good Morning Kisses.

Enjoy and, send me more pictures!  :~)