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.

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

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

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 song and lyrics 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

Dancing With Memory

"Lost love is still love, Eddie.  It takes a different form, that's all.  You can't see their smile or bring them food or tousle their hair or move them around a dance floor.  But when those senses weaken, another heightens.  Memory.  Memory becomes your partner.  You nurture it.  You hold it.  You dance with it. (from The Five People You Meet in Heaven)

And, isn't that why we scrapbook?  In a few words, that is why our passion to preserve our loved one's legacy is so strong.  Dancing with Memory ~ it's my children looking through my albums and reading the stories; it's sitting quietly in my favorite big purple chair with a cup of chai, counting my blessings and remembering moments past; and, it's looking through scrapbooks to see how He has loved and cared for us.....Our albums are the recorded music that we dance to.

Even as spring is here, and summer is coming, continue taking those pictures, keeping Precious Papers, recording the stories in you Journey Jots, and, preserving the stories in your albums.  The time you spend will give future generations plenty of dancing material :)

PS ~ if you haven't read The Five People You Meet in Heaven by Mitch Albom, grab a copy.  It's a quick read, and, it'll make you look at life through different eyes.  We truly do not realize who we impact for eternity.

Precious E-Cards to Preserve

With the internet being such a part of our lives, now greeting cards can be sent with just a few clicks and key taps.   When these things first started coming out I thought they were completely impersonal and that I would n-e-v-e-r send one. 

Well, of course, never say never, and, now ever since last year with the Invasion of the E-Cards in our home, these cards we send these things to each other regularly.  And, the cards from my children have just blessed my life.  Who'd thought these things would become a part of my family scrapbooks!

The kids send cards to each other with such such sweet and funny words ~ being a house with mainly boys, you can begin to imagine the verbal exchanges :)  This one from my daughter just meant the world to me ~ she giggled as I made my mouse kiss the little guy, and, be sure to click exit to read her message!! 

While I don't print them all, I do print the screen(s) of the cards that are treasures to keep and save them in my album just as I would cards through the mail.  Even now as we look at them in our albums they bring precious memories and moments.

So, start sending and saving your e-cards.  All you have to do is click on one of the links below, browse through the 'card aisle' and forward to your loved ones.  Then, be sure to hit "print" on your browser to preserve the cards that are sent or received that mean the most.  I just crop around the printed card to remove the extra paper, mount it on some of my mounting paper, file it, and, then put it in my album when I get to that date.  These have become a permanent part of our family's story and are now honestly are treasured just as much as a card from the 'real' card store.

• Crosscards ~ This one has some beautiful Christian cards.  There are even some reminding us to set our clocks ahead Saturday.
• Hallmark ~ having just come from vacation, I think my kids have clicked and watched that car with the snakes card at least 50 times :)  I just love the Interrupting Ghost and Mama's Little Vampire, they just make me giggle.  And of course, I've received lots of 'nature cards' with "Mommy's birds and deer".
• Monk-e-mail ~ my kids LOVE this one!!  Who can resist a monkey that you can dress up and make it say what you type!!!  :)
• American Greetings ~ We having used this one too much, but, I'm sure they are just as good

Have fun, and, get those e-cards flying!

A New Year Note

I actually scrapbooked a ton this weekend ~ my stuff came out of my scrapbooking room and I took over the kitchen table.  My poor family had to eat on the floor or stand up for 2 days!!  :)

I have finally hit the point in my past pictures where I started making notes, such as Journey Jots.  Man, was I thanking myself for doing so.  I know there were things I had written down that I never would have remembered by the time I finally got to scrap them.

One of my favorite things was a New Years Note to each of my children.  It kinda was a "year in review" and "prayers for the coming year".  These are a great way to end a year in your scrapbook. It helps capture key moments and growth from the previous year and gives an opportunity for me to be sure I document my prayers and hopes for the coming year.  There were soooo many things I wouldn't have if I had not taken the short 30 minutes or so to capture my thoughts.

So, I thought I'd encourage each of you to take just a few minutes to make a quick New Years Note to each of your family members and then, plan on capturing these in your album.  Here are just a few ideas to help get you going:

• Favorite / special toys, shows, friends, clothes, music from the past year
• Physical, emotional, and spirtual growth or milestones from the past year
• Any specific trials or mountains and how they were met / beaten
• Bible verses or stories that are relevant to the past year / coming year
• Prayers for growth (physically, emotionally, and spirtutally) in the coming year
• Your respect or admiration for the loved one

Even if you are not a point that you can scrap them now ~ just get your thoughts down.  Type them or write them out real quick.  I just scratched mine down with abbreviations I didn't even know what I meant 2 years later :)  Then, when you do get to a point you are ready to put the notes in your albums, here are some quick ideas on how to use them:

• Type, or even better write, each one out as if you were sending them, and, stick them in a pocket page or envelope taped directly to your page
• Type out the letter, embellish the paper or page you place it on so it can be easily read as others look at your album
• Use the past year moments as page embellishments.  These can be written or even typed out in different fonts and paper
• End the year, or start the next year with the Notes ~ What a great front page for a new year!

Hope this gets you thinking and writing!

On a personal note ~ 2006 was a year of overwhelming growth for Scrapbookers Bubble Bath.  I am speechless and humbled.  To think that He would use me, an internet-afraid and techy-dumb nurse :) just really amazes me.  I passionately pray that SBB can, in 2007, continue to help each of you capture your legacy and leave that eternal impact.   

For each of us 2006 was a different mix of trials, growth, pain, love, blessings, and change ~ Only He knows what 2007 will bring.  But, one thing we do know, it will be a year of His Work and His Love ~ and, we wouldn't want it any other way!

To each of you, thank you so much for being a part of my life and for blessing me ~ You inspire me with your love for your families and the Lord.  May we each draw closer to Him and learn more of His Woundrous Love and Amazing Grace this year!

Much Love,

Tina

Fabric Embellishments

As I moved from my other home, it was difficult for me to leave a couple sets of curtains - There were the ones I have had in some room, in one way or another, since we have been married; I also left behind the curtains my mom made for the kitchen ~ a special gift that holds a treasured story; And, what about the Blue Angels curtains I made for the boys ~ but, put the fabric upside down :)

However, as I unpacked, I found scraps from each set of curtains I left behind.  Since there was not enough to make anything else, I held it in my hand, wondering what in the world I could do with it.....

I want to preserve not only how my kitchen looked, but, the story of the curtains, and, the precious soul who made them.  I want the boys to know the moments leading to their fabric choices and the excitement they had as the rooms were completed. 

Being unable to just toss the fabric that brings special moments to mind, I put the pieces in my scrapbooking room - with plans to make pages using the fabric.  The swatches can be used as background, embellishments, or as the focal point of the page itself.  Besides the curtain fabric for my albums, I have also kept:

• My dad's baby clothes - to make a pocket on a page to put some of his clothes in, along with pictures of him when he was a baby (Of course this can be done for our own children)
• Old lace curtains from my grandmother that can never be hung due to aging, but, can be used as a special embellishment with some pictures of her
• A candy wrapper my husband brought home ~ I have framed it and set it on my desk
• A pair of pajamas I made for my son that were made from fabric he chose, with a very funny story  behind it
• Feathers from a Halloween custome I made for my daughter
• A ribbon worn by my daughter for a special picture
• I even saved the robe from my honeymoon pajamas, that, of course, no longer fits after 4 children and 16 years :) and made a collage with our wedding invitation, favors and program.

Sometimes we remember to keep the recital programs, the first day of school pictures, and the hair from the first haircut, but, there are so many other keepsakes that can be added to our albums ~ we only need to open our eyes to the potential of the other cherished pieces.

Do you have any special fabric sitting around that could be used as an embellishment?  Does anyone else have such fabric or other odd keepsakes that can be used in our albums?  If you have any suggestions, please leave a comment below.  I would love to hear and share other ideas from you faithbookers out there with a passion to leave a legacy through your albums.

picture from http://www.trendycrafts.net/images/fabric.jpg

Peaceful Dwelling Places

Well, I think it is official ~ we finally got our house on the market....Now we are in that "we gotta keep the house ready in case someone calls us" mode.  Wow, selling a house is a ton of work!! :) 

Now that the "For Sale" sign is in the yard, and, I am realizing how final this all is ~ I have to admit that I am feeling really unsettled at times.  In fact, I told the realtor I had a small part of me that did not want to sell because that meant I had to actually move out of my home and commit to another home and neighborhood - yikes!

After looking a millions of homes ~ OK, maybe only tens, it just felt like millions ~ I am realizing what a mammoth decision this is.  The home we pick will impact our family's life forever....it will impact the friends my children have, the schools they attend, the church we choose, maybe even the in-laws my children will receive...

I have to constantly remind myself that the Lord already knows the house He has for us ~ we just have to rest in Him and allow Him to show us the way.  After a restless night of thoughts of "wooded lot or lots of running room", "gas or wood burning fireplace", kitchen with or without an island", "more square footage or newer" and on and on ~ I woke hearing Him speak what I call my "family verse" ~

My people will live in peaceful dwelling places, secure homes, and undisturbed places of rest ~ Isaiah 32:18

He gave me that verse years ago as both a promise from Him and a goal for me to pass on to my children. 

Promise : He wants to give us peacefull dwelling places and secure homes and places of rest.  We need only to trust in Him and cling to His promise.

Goal :  I strive to create a home that can be described by the words of Isaiah 32:18.  I want my children and husband to find our home to be a secure place of rest and peace.

Page Idea? 

• Create a page of a place of rest for you, whether it be a special room, under a tree, or holding your child.  Where does your soul feel at rest?
• Find a favorite picture of Christ or a picture that you see as representing peace, and journal how Christ has been your security, peace, and rest.
• As I have done below, take a picture of your home, include Isaiah 32:18 and journal 1) what you do to make your home one of security and rest or 2) what you want others to feel as they enter into your home. 
• Your family will treasure your words and prayers for what you have done to provide a special home for them. Using Isaiah 32:18 is another way we can pass on His promise and love to future generations.

                                           

#1 ~ Using one of our early practice Legacy-Cuts, I took a picture of our home and journaled how I pray to make our home one of security peace and rest.  "Isaiah 32:18 has been my promise from the Lord ~ and a goal for my home.  As I plant outside, decorate the inside, and train my children, peaceful dwelling place, secure home and place of rest sings in my mind.  I pray my children and grandchildren think of my home when they hear Isaiah 32:18 ~ That would be a dream come true."

(Since currently the Legacy ~ Cuts have had to be placed on hold, here is the Cut I used to create this page ~ enjoy!)Download sbb_legacycut_isaiah_32_18_illustrative_porch_large.pdf

#2 ~ Using another one of our early practice Legacy-Cuts, I took a picture of our new driveway being placed and journaled how I wnat others to feel as they entered our home. "I pray my driveway will be one that family and friends will pull up to find a home they feel peace and love as they enter."  Although these were pictures of just concrete and trucks, using scripture it now provides a wonderful avenue to both reveal a little more about my heart and continue to encourage future generations to turn to Him.

(Here is the Legacy ~ Cut I used to create this page ~ enjoy!) Download sbb_legacycut_isaiah_32_18_expressive.pdf

I truly pray you find rest in Him today ~ He wants to be your Security, Peace and Rest ~ we need only allow Him into our hearts and lives.

I.O.U Mom!

With mother's day just a few days away, I have been trying to think about what I should say ~ well, my brother did it better than I could even begin to try, so, read his, and, listen to the song ~ warning....major kleenex needed :)

To my children, on mother's day ~ I can never begin to express in words how blessed you have each made me.  If I had created my life in my mind, I could not have even begun to come close to His wonderful plan!!  Thank you so much for bringing such peace joy, prayer, strength and plain old fun I never dreamed possible.  I pray that I can be the mom you each need to mold you to be all He created you to be ~ And then, may you Find Your Wings, and, "Rock this world for Him"!

To my mom ~ As Aaron's I.O.U post says, I could never begin to repay all you have been to me and all you have given me.  Him or I, had we enough talent, could have written that song on our own.  You taught me how to love and give way beyond I may think I can.  My children and their children will be blessed for all you have done and all you are.  You truly will hear "Well done good and faithful servant!".  I love you!

~~~~~~~~

~ I.O.U Mother's Page Idea ~

I.O.U. for construction work, for building kites and confidence, hopes and dreams an’….. Somehow you made them all touch the sky…..
And for cementin’ together a family
So it would stand the worst kind of shocks and blows…..
And for layin’ down a good strong foundation to build a life on.

Those are my favorite words in the I.O.U song.  I could ramble the how and the why ~ but, I will save that for my scrapbook page:)  In short, Scrapbookers Bubble Bath would not exist today if my mother had not taught me to reach for my dreams and laid such a solid foundation in our family and HIM.

• What part of that song touches you the most, or could have been words from your own hand?  Maybe write those down in your mom's card this year, or better yet, call her and tell her
• Cut and copy those words into Word, print them off, and, put them on a page with a picture of your mother ~ or, if you don't have a picture, just make a beautiful double page spread with the words on one side and your special memories on the other
• Perhaps you can forward the link or get a copy of the song and play it for your husband, mother or father.  Have them share memories from their mom, and make a page for them ~ how cool would that be for future generations to read of ones further back then yours!
• Make your own poem or list of I.O.Us straight from your heart
• Include scripture and how your mother has fulfilled that scripture: *** Her children arise and call her blessed ~ Proverbs 31:28  *** Many women do noble things, but you surpass them all ~ Proverbs 31:29  *** And all thy children shall be taught of the LORD; and great shall be the peace of thy children ~ Isaiah 54:13 (Scriptures taken from Unto All Generations ~ sections Mother's Day and Women)
• No matter how or what you do for a mother page ~ be sure to take the time to create one in your Journey to a Legacy book.  Future generations will want to know how this woman impacted their lives

A Sibling Prayer

I have one of the most amazing brothers a sister could ever ask for ~ I could ramble on about what I respect, admire, and cherish about him, but, I found some perfect words instead.  In a million years I could never begin to explain what he is to me better than these:

Give them wisdom and devotion in the ordering of their common life that each may be to the other a strength in need, a counselor in perplexity, a comfort in sorrow, and a companion in joy.  Amen

I think the words came from The Book of Common Prayer ~ at least that is what was at the bottom of the prayer.  And, while they would be perfect for pictures of a wedding, church community members, or even friends, I will use them for the next picture I scrap of my brother and I.

If you are making a Relationship Moments page, a wedding album, or a special gift for a friend, journal these words on a page ~ they say so much even standing alone. 

• Write these words down on a Journal Jot and take a picture of your children and journal your prayers for them, especially as they become adults
• Put them next to your wedding picture ~ remember, as I said in It's OK to Be Out of Order, just stick that picture in there now, and journal how these has been true in your relationship
• Have someone take a picture of you and your husband, sibling, best friend, or parent and use these words
• Use them as a title page of a wedding or family album
• Make a page or poster for your community group at church
• If you have the Unto All Generations, write these in the Love or Family section

I am sure there is at least one person in your life that would be an answer to this prayer ~ let them know today and thank Him for His gift of others.

PS - if think I am just a proud sister and don't believe me how awesome my brother is, check out his blog In Leftfield ~ you'll agree with me that he is a blessing to this world. 

Relationship Moments

OK, OK, OK, so, I said I'd put myself on break from SBB for a couple of months ~ well, maybe I need to join Scrapbookers Bubble Bath Anonymous, because, I just can't do it!  :)

So, as I laid awake this morning since 4 a.m. bursting with the thoughts that have piled up while I have packed up, I decided I'd play with the dates, and stick some posts in under the "I'm on leave" post.  I figure, it will give those of you who are subscribed something to read, and, it will give me something to help curb this obsessive - compulsiveness that my husband has accused me of having for years.  :)

I guess you could say I will be "behind the scenes" ~ and, will be posting a few things that have caused me to be bursting at the seams.

We have managed to invite the overpowering, ugly flu in our house - between the 4 kids with fevers, running noses and coughs, the stock holders of Advil Cold and Kleenex are loving me! And, this morning, my 10 year old, the final one to sucumb to the symptoms, came down with fever and tears that will just melt anyone's heart.  As I was in the kitchen getting him his OJ popsicles and vitamins, I listened as my 8 year old set the 10 year old up on the couch, just as I had done the morning before.  "Here, let me get your Steelers blanket - that will make you feel better".  "I promise, this popsicle will make your sore throat go away".  "Get all comfy and I will take care of you".   Man, I just can't get anymore blessed!!

And, of course, being the scrapbooker that I am - as I was mixing the muffins, I was trying to figure out the page I could do from the scene going on in the front room :)  (Wish I had time to make the page for you instead of just passing on a picture, but, runny noses, sore throats, and, that terrible packing is preventing me from tearing out my scrapping stuff)

How many pictures do we have of 2 people, arms around each other and smiling?  And, how many times can we write "Nathan and Ian"?  How about a Relationship Moments page?  Include the relationship between the two, special moments shared, and, what bond makes them special to and strong for each other.  Moments like I heard in the front room are ones we will never remember, and, they will never have to reflect back on ~ unless we include them in our albums.

Tomorrow, or, the next time I can sneak away to type, I will tell you about my Journey Jots that I keep in my kitchen to catch these moments until I finally get the chance to scrap them.  They has helped me to capture more "ordinary moments", that are true treasures, for my pages.

Ahhh, there, I have had my dose of Scrapbookers Bubble Bath, and, am now ready to face the day :)

Plumbing, Pictures, and Pages

Well, as I mentioned on the welcome page to SBB, I am in the middle of those few frantic weeks before you put your house up for sale ~ you know, doing those projects and touch ups that somehow never manage to get done until you are ready to pass your home on to someone else :)

In the middle of painting and packing, we had quite a weekend....If I explained it all, no one would believe me - it is a story that truly would only belong in a sitcom!  In short, we had 6, yes, 6 different plumbing issues this weekend.  Now, these issues were the opposite of "clogged", so, as you can imagine, there really was not a dry towel in the house last night.  It started with a drip that we noticed from one of the showers and just continued on including feed lines, a basement toilet and 2 seperate leaks with the water heater that really is only a few years old.  I think the funniest (now that is fixed) one is the drip, drip, drip I heard while a friend was visiting, and, I thought, "oh, I need to turn the faucet off better when she leaves".  Unfortunately it was not my faucet, and by the time she left, my laundry area was soaked and the water heater was literally running hot water.

Whew, now that my water is turned back on, I have towels in the washer and dryer, my sink stacked full of dishes waiting for the next load in the dishwasher, laundry that may just end up taking over our home like that old movie "The Blob", and, a story that will make some awesome pages in our "Bedford Home" album!

Before my wonderful, life-saving, and super smart dad left last night, I had to have my husband and him pose for a picture ~ while the plumbing story itself will make wonderful pages, even more treasured is the story of how my father has influenced the life of my husband and the beautiful relationship they have.  This page idea came to me Friday night when I asked my husband how he knew how to fix all this stuff, and, his answer brought tears to my eyes "From watching your dad." And, as I went downstairs to get back to my painting, I thought of all the times I have heard the two of them discussing, laughing, and working through projects.  My dad has such an amazing calm presence about him, that even in the midst of the 6th attempt at sodering a joint the two of them can talk and joke. I could ramble in this blog forever with the projects they have attacked, the knowledge that has been passed on, and the friendship that has been created, but, I will save those words for my album.

So, actually there are 2 ideas in this post ~

1) Of course, take before and after pictures of remodeling, but, don't forget to take pictures of projects with stories.  I seriously took a picture of each "leaky culprit" - it is all too funny not to put in our album.

2)  For even more of a legacy leaving page ~ Do you have someone who does help you with life?  Don't forget to take pictures of them "helping" as I did of my dad and husband after the plumbing project.  Then, write how the story or even a list of the projects you two have done together.  I have pictures of my dad and husband working on a car before we were even married that I treasure - those will be copied and placed on this page along with the kitchen floor, back porch, electrical endeavors, and, of course, the plumbing!

Eternal Expressions #1 ~ A Lost Tooth

(This is the first of SBBs new Eternal Expressions entries.  As each entry is created, the link will be added to the Eternal Expressions catagory to the right ~ so, come on back and visit us.)

My daughter lost her first tooth this week, and, I apologize to any poor soul who her saw her in the last few days, because they got to hear the entire story ~ every single detail!  :) 

In addition to our traditional letter to / from the Tooth Fairy, (she even taped the tooth to the paper so it wouldn't get lost beneath her pillow), of course we got the close-up picture of the mouth, minus one tooth.

While a lost tooth seems like such a normal childhood happening, it really is an amazing opportunity for us, as parents, to share how wonderfully we are created, and, how His plans are in place long before we know.  What a better place to share these words than in our albums.  So, here are some ideas and scriptures for your own "The Tooth Fairy is Coming" page.

And, keep your eye open for other seemingly "daily happenings" that really are "daily opportunities" to point to Him!

* Don't forget, send us copies of your pages - we'd love to share them in or New Gallery coming soon!

Ideas:

• Take a picture of the tooth and the toothless
• Take a picture of the child sleeping and waiting for the Tooth Fairy
• Create a letter from the Tooth Fairy
• How much does your Tooth Fairy leave?
• How did the tooth come out?
• Include the reactions of the child (who they called, were they excited, how did they describe the incident?)

Scriptures:

• ...I praise you for I am fearfully and wonderfully made. ~ Psalm 139:14
• O LORD, You are my God; I will exhalt you and praise your name, for in perfect faithfulness You have done marvelous things, things planned long ago. ~ Isaiah 25:1
• I have loved you with an everlasting love; I have drawn you with loving-kindness.  I will build you up again, and you will be rebuilt. ~ Jeremiah 31:3-4

~ Scripture inspirations taken from the Unto All Generations Volume I ~ Family and Heritage Scriptures

A Reason to Party

Remember as a kid loving parties?  And, have you ever stopped to realize that as adults we don't have parties enough?  I realized that this weekend as we were visiting some very dear friends - and, thought I'd pass some inspiration and fun for life, refreshed by 2 little girls, as a great legacy moment and page idea.

While visiting my dear college roommate, our daughters (8 and 5 years old) took the initiative to plan a party for all 13 of us.  They put so much thought and creativity in it - They carried toys downstairs for the kids, including the army men for the boys, and blocks for the youngest. There was a game boy carefully set out, games for all of us to play, and even a sign in sheet that we were required to sign before entry.  They took extra care planning, setting up and surprising us as we "weren't allowed to come down until it was ready".  And, without them realizing it, they gave me some wonderful pictures with a sweet story behind them :)

Last fall, my kids wanted to have a party for their dad "because he works so hard".  I let them plan the whole thing from the food to the decorations, all the way down to wrapping poor daddy in toilet paper before he was allowed to see the set-up in the dining room :) Again - those pictures from that day represent such precious memories and moments that my children will cherish.

Does a party require a birthday, Christmas or special occasion?  Can't we have a "It's Tuesday Party" or "We Saw A Bluebird Bash", or "We Love Daddy Cause He Works So Hard Celebration"?  Why, of course - and, what awesome pages those pictures would make!!

Other Party ideas ~ Celebrate a day of the week; the weather; a favorite food, animal, commercial or sport; a test grade; a lesson learned; everyone's home; a "clean house" - I know, yeah right :)   The possibilities are endless - The idea is to celebrate life together as a family and preserve those moments - just look at your day and be inspired!

So, let you kids plan their own bash - You don't have to spend any extra money - half the fun is being creative with what they can find around the house. 

• Be sure to take pictures of the planning, preparing and partying 
• Write down the words they said, the decorations they planned, and the activities created
• Keep pieces of the decorations or momentos from the time
• Let them help you design the page 

So, party on, and, be sure to share your ideas here and with others to inspire them as we, like children, find the simple reasons in life to celebrate!

Sport Superstitions and Traditions

Well, Super Bowl XL is tomorrow - I know my son takes his steelers blanket with him everywhere, and, is wearing his 'Official Terrible Towel' on his head :)

So, as the day approaches, I am wondering if you or your family have 'pre-game' rituals, superstitions or traditions for football, baseball, or any sport?  Do you have a lucky shirt?  Is there a certain hand you hold the remote in or a way you wear your hat when your team is on offense?  How did these traditions start?  Why do you do them?  Do they really work?  How do you know?  Who do you do them with? 

It would be special to take pictures of those rituals and make a page! - I am finding that some people do some pretty funny things to help boost their team to victory :)

All These Precious Papers

My 7 year old son made this precious card for my 10 year old's birthday - It was such a sweet moment watching him play with the font, color the Steeler's emblem just right and go through 3 yellow markers to color the entire background yellow "Cause the Steeler's colors are black like the letters and yellow like the background"

Then, there is the receipt for the bag of 360 suckers that my son saved for weeks and earned on his own by reading and doing little chores around the house.......but, he would want me to tell you it only came with 359!  :)

And, I can't forget the letter from my son thanking us for helping him with school, that is as special as literally hundreds of other little pieces of paper that I want to save and put in my albums

But, there is a problem - I am still only scrapbooking the end of 2004! - I am not ready to put those treasures in their eternal place of album pages.  So, what to do?

Easy!  I have 12 folders, each marked with a month and the year.  I keep them right in the Blessing Room in my house for easy access.  And, when I find that receipt, precious note, or special doodled picture - I write the important info on a sticky note, put it on the back of the paper, and, place it in the appropriate month's folder.  Then, when I finally get to that month or time of year, I have the papers dated, and the moment's special memory written down.

What are some things you may want to jot down about the paper?

• The date!!!!
• Why you are saving it
• What was said about the paper - include quotes - their words are priceless
• Any special work or effort put into creating / earning it
• Feelings about the paper (pride, love etc)

What papers could be saved?

• Receipts
• Drawings
• Notes
• Schoolwork such as tests, reports, artwork
• Newspaper articles
• Ticket stubs or pay stubs
• Advertisements
• Programs
• Food or toy wrappers
• See, it is endless!!

So, find 12 folders, while you watch TV next time, date each folder for the entire year and put them in an easily reached area.  Put a pile of sticky notes in a central place or close within reach as well.

I promise you that you will find yourself saving more of those 'special moment papers', and, you will be loving yourself when you do finally have the opportunity to preserve them, that you had taken the extra minute to write why in the world you saved this!

A Favorite Christmas Picture

I know, I know, I said I wouldn't post  until after the new year ~ I just can't help myself from putting this page idea up.  It has been running around my mind, so I thought I would clear it out to make room for other stuff ~ like where in the world I placed those New Years Eve hats! 

I hope you all had a wonderful Christmas!  I know I thought of you all throughout the holiday.

I downloaded my pictures Christmas evening and found some that were soooo precious they brought tears to my eyes.  Some brought tears of pure joy, some brought tears of laughter, some brought tears of pride, and, some brought tears of Christmas' past.  I have a couple that, for various reasons, will forever be my absolute favorites from the day.  How about you?  Do you have a picture that truly says 1000 words?  Do you have one that will be a treasure because it is of one you completely cherish?

So, here is my thought.....now, while the feelings are fresh, and the moment is so alive in your mind, do some quick journaling.  Sit down at the computer and type out what you would like to journal about that picture, save it, then when you are ready to do a page, all you have to do is copy the words on your page, or change the font and formatting, and, there, you have those words preserved.  Or, grab some notecards and write what you would like to remember / say about the day or particular pictures.  Or, if you want to be really ahead, cut some photo safe lined paper in squares and journal, then you can place the cards directly on the page.

I know I have a couple of pictures that may have earned themselves the "gotta enlarge and have their own page" reward.  How about you?  Write those words down tonight.

OK, I will try really hard not to post until after the New Year.  Have a blessed and safe New Year and be ready for great things in 2006!

Christmas is coming!

  Yikes!  Our local Christian radio station just made an announcement at 7:20 AM November 14th! - All Christmas music from now through Christmas...does that mean that Christmas is coming?  I thought I still had some time to figure out what in the world we were going to make for gifts and how I was going to design my Christmas cards and where I was going to put my Christmas tree and exactly how many lights we have to put up to still look festive yet not be taking lights down in March and ...... You probably get the point, and, may have just begun your own panic!

As Rockin' Around the Christmas Tree is playing in the background I have to sadly laugh at my thoughts that were immediately drawn to my to do list and not the fun of the season and the joy my family can experience during this time of year.  Whether I make fancy cards with lots of embossing (that will be thrown out once received anyway), and whether I decorate the tree like a Nordstroms or a Charlie Brown tree, and whether we put 100s of lights or 1000s of lights, Christmas is coming, and Christ is born.  How much stress I choose to put on myself and my family is my choice and my choice alone.

So, as I listen to Feliz Navidad and my 7 year old dances around the room in a way that I know my Parylite collector angels will get broken :)  I have made a choice.  This will not be like so many other Christmas seasons of past - a time of stress, crabbiness, rush and panic.  I pray I can strive to make this Christmas one of joy, laughter, love, cherished moments, lots of pictures, only a few 100 lights :) and, eternally most important, one of Christ.

And, as I hope you can focus on your family and Christ this year, here are some pictures to take and things to write down to keep and record in your albums..

• Each members favorite Christmas song and why - won't the kids' answers be precious!
• Gift shopping and making presents - arms full of bags and fingers full of glue are cherished moments!
• A picture of your Christmas tree - include special ornaments - I am making an album with a picture of each special ornament and the story behind it
• A picture of your family in the snow or by the local downtown Chritmas lights - where someone else has put up 1000s lights :)
• Read THE Christmas story and / or the other wonderful Christmas stories that are available
• Be sure to have each member write down their Christmas lists - copy them or put original in your album - I love these from years past
• Save your family's Christmas card
• Reciepts from shoppping :) - 20 years from now we will all be amazed at how inexpensive everything was
• A picture of your family's nativity - enlarge it and record what Christ's birth means to each member
• A picture of your house at Christmas, with (hopefully only a few 100) lights

Did that get you thinking?  Anyone have any other ideas?  There are so many ways to celebrate Christmas through our albums - keep your eye open for special moments and memories this season.

Well, gotta run, Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer and Lots of laundry call - Merry CHRISTmas and give yourself the gift of enjoying the season this year!