Shoot and Scrap

Bella Blvd Mr.Boy

2011-09-20T20:31:00.000+08:00

These layouts are long overdue. I tried to squeezed in some "me" time so I can finally touch my scrap supplies. Thanks Vivian of Lasting Impression for sending me these papers even before I gave birth. This kit, by far, is my most favorite! Love the bold, bright and playful colors of Mr. Boy Collection from Bella Blvd.

I applied rub ons on the buttons and doodled lines and dots too.

These rub ons are part of a sheet. Instead of using it as one, I cut each sentence and applied it randomly on my layout.

supplies: Bella Blvd. - Heroes, Hypersrtipe, Connect the Dots, Borders N Blocks, Cute Cuts, others: Scenic Route pp, Daisy Bucket rub ons, Uniball Signo white pen, Fancy Pants buttons, 7 Gypsies stickers, Clearsnap ink

I applied rub ons on the cloud. Instant journaling spot!

added the googly eyes to make this dino even cuter!

supplies: Bella Blvd Mr. Boy - Dinomite, Hyperstripe, Connect the Dots, Borders N Blocks, Cute Cuts; others - Nikki Sivils letters, Uniball Signo white pen, Daisy Bucket rub ons, Zig pen, buttons, googly eyes

Colorful Creations Guest DT

2011-09-13T20:34:00.001+08:00

I'm honored to be guest DT for Colorful Creations last August. I wasn't able to share it here because I gave birth last August 7, 2011 via ceasarian section! Anyway, I'll write a separate post for the newest addition to our family, our little princess, Erin Kristen!

Here are the layouts I made for the sketch. I was so inspired that I made two!

title: Believe

materials used: cardstock; patterned papers and stickers - BasicGrey; metal - Making Memories; others - fibers and pen

title: My Sweet Anika

materials used: patterned papers, stickers- BasicGrey; flowers - Prima; others - ribbons and pen

Thank you to the site's admin, Brenshevia for this wonderful opportunity to share my works with the members!

PageMaps Sketch

2011-09-13T19:43:00.000+08:00

I was so eager to try this sketch from Becky Fleck because it was a perfect match to the four pictures of Ethan that I had for months already! I gave the sketch a twist though in terms of sizes of the pictures.

I'm so glad I finally scrapped Ethan's first bath! (After almost 7 years hehehe). My mom was a bit puzzled when she saw me scrapping these pics. She was wondering why I never gave Ethan a bath right after he came from the hospital; she thought I never even bother give Ethan a bath for almost a month since birth hehehe. Of course, I had to tell her that I did give Ethan a bath a day after we came home but we never consider that one as a "real" bath because we didn't soak him in the water yet hehehe. We only washed his hair and gave him a sponge bath while waiting for the cord stump to fall as per his pedia's advise.

Anyway, I love the result of my work. Here's hoping for more layouts soon.

My Pregnancy Photos

2011-06-16T02:21:00.000+08:00

We recently celebrated our friend, Arlene's birthday at Sonya's Garden. It was her treat for all of us to have a bday lunch and a photo shoot! She asked her friend, Edrie Alvarez to take our photos. Although we also took turns in taking of our own pictures. It was a really fun day spent with friends!

Thanks Arlene for a fabulous day with the Adobo Girls. Thanks Edrie for your patience in taking our wonderful photos.

I'm 29 weeks in these pictures ...

Thanks April for editing this picture!

This photo was taken by April Lim (that's her hat too!)

Another Photo by April

I miss the "Tres Marias"

The Adobo Girls

Finally, here's the first layout I made for my little peanut ...

title: Baby Peanut

materials used: patterned papers - Lily Bee, Nikki Sivils, My Little Shoebox, MYLB; flowers - Queen & Co., American Crafts, Fancy Pants; journaling blocks - Heidi Swapp; brads - Queen & Co; rub ons - Maya Road; stickers - Ki Memories; letters - American Crafts, Nikki Svils

I'll be giving birth soon and I'm glad I haven't bought any maternity dress/clothes hehehe.

Thanks for those who are always dropping by and leaving nice messages! I really appreciate them.

Working Mom Magazine May 2011

2011-06-10T04:52:00.001+08:00

Now I can share this with you ...

... a summer mini album I made for Working Mom Magazine and Lasting Impression. I'm so proud of this project because it was a family bonding activity for us! Jeff contributed in the article and was the also official photographer while Ethan got to be featured because he did most of the journaling notes using his own words in his handwriting!

Pardon the over exposed photos though ...

cover page

pages 1 and 2

pages 3 and 4

hidden journaling

pages 5 and 6

pages 7 and 8

pages 9 and 10

pages 11 and 12

Some of the layouts were not included in the issue so I thought of sharing all the pages here. I hope I was able to inspire you to create a simple and easy summer mini album.

Album Size: 6"x6"
Photo Size: 3" x 4" (half of 4R or you can use wallet size prints)
all materials are from Lasting Impression (except for the ribbons, paint, office supplies and ring binders): album chipboard; Cosmo Cricket Snorkel and Joy Ride Collection; Fancy Pants buttons

Thanks to Vivian of Lasting Impression and Ms. Dedet Panabi, EIC of Working Mom for another wonderful opportunity!

Club CK Scrapbooking Inspiration

2011-06-08T03:06:00.000+08:00

Woke up this morning with this news ...

When things don't go the way we hoped and planned it will be; sometimes, news like this can be uplifting and inspiring in a way.

Thanks Club CK for making me smile! Now, I'm eager to finish the layout I started the other day!

28 weeks and other updates

2011-06-04T03:46:00.001+08:00

I'm back again! We have been through a lot of things this summer so blogging and scrapping, as always, need to take a backseat. My OB also advised me to rest because I am underweight - it must be because of the stress that keeps on building up each day.

I'm on my 28th week of pregnancy right now. It has been quite difficult because of the unbearable heat (it must be my worst summer). My two boys are both helping me out with the chores at home. Ethan would fix his bed, throw the garbage, set up the table, sometimes wash the dishes etc. while Jeff would do the laundry. We are making ourselves ready for the coming of our baby with or without a househelp.

Ethan finished 3 of his summer lessons - thank God for all of these despite having financial difficulties. We wanted a fruitful and enjoyable summer for Ethan so I really planned for his activities. I enrolled him in swimming lessons which only cost me P2,000 for 15 sessions (not bad at all); he swims in our community pool which is a walk from our unit and has saved us from gas. My little boy learned to swim fast only after a few sessions, in fact even faster than Jeff!

Ethan (the one in black rashguard)

We also enrolled him at the McDonald's Kiddie Crew which was only P500 for 5 days!

First day: Drive Thru

Second Day: Counter/Kitchen

Third Day: McCafe

We thought that was it when God has sent us an angel through Tita Arlene. She enrolled Ethan in Friday's Kids on Stripes! Ethan truly enjoyed this one, in fact, he was even awarded "Most Active" because he would always participate in all of the activities of their class.

Kids On Stripes -ATC Branch, Batch 2 during their Recognition Day. Each kid received a certificate, an award and a cute Snowman!

Summer has been busy for Ethan. Our young entrepreneur also sold ice candies to our neighbors! And one of his greatest feat would be sleeping on his own in his own bedroom! We are really proud of our little "Kuya"!

On my 26th week, I had my ultrasound. But I told my OB not to tell us the gender yet instead she must write it down in a card. I told her that we want to reveal the gender together with my family and friends. She loved the idea and she kept telling the other doctors and staff about our plan! I then sealed the envelope (nope, I didn't peek!) and even tied it with a pink and blue ribbon just to make sure nobody from us will dare open it hehehe.

We asked our friends to come in pink and blue shirts - depending on their guess (pink for a girl and blue for a boy).

I was surprised to see Jeff wore a blue shirt! Ethan was consistent - he said it'll be a baby girl!

My mom and our very kind neighbors.

My mom and our neighbors threw this simple get together for us. We feel blessed!

I can't even look at the result!

We are very thankful for our family and our new friends who were there with us to share the exciting news!

We feel happy that we are going to be blessed with a baby girl!

Here are some layouts I managed to make the past weeks.

title: Home Sweet Holidays

materials are from Lasting Impression: patterned papers - Crate Snow Day Collection; cardstock - DCWV; chipboard - Cosmo Cricket; pompoms - Fancy Pants (thanks Iris!); others - buttons (thanks April!) and pens

title: 31

materials: Thanks April for the papers and embellishments! patterned papers - Prima, Fancy Pants, Teresa Collins; felt flowers - Queen and Co.; sticker - MYLB (thanks Iris!) ; brads - Nikki Sivils (thanks Ria!) others - pen

Thanks for dropping by!

Rain Delight

2011-05-04T19:18:00.000+08:00

I know we all feel the scorching heat of the sun. Since I am pregnant, sometimes I feel like having a heat stroke! Sigh! Anyway, to freshen up things, I thought of sharing with you some "Rain Delight".

It's a 'quickie' layout I made in less than an hour! These photos were taken, surprisingly just last March which is supposed to be the start of the summer season. I'm glad that Ethan got to play in the rain again. It took a year for him to do so since we used to live near a busy road where playing isn't a good idea! Now, Ethan is free to play at the clubhouse and at the playground!

By the way, since Ria and I received requests for a follow up from our previous class, we thought of coming up with another one by June : D Details would be posted here soon! So, do come back from time to time. Thanks!

materials used: patterned papers and rub ons - Lily Bee; buttons - Fancy Pants; letters - American Crafts; pen

Scrap More in 2011 with Ria and Pia

2011-05-02T15:45:00.002+08:00

Finally the day has arrived for our class! It has been moved several times because of some shipping issues that were beyond our control. We almost thought we could no longer push through! The box arrived first week of April (it took days before it was released from the Customs) and so last April 30, Ria and I conducted our first ever class at Lasting Impression using Nikki Sivils' We Are Family.

We would like to thank Vivian of Lasting Impression for the venue and the class materials. The kits/papers we have used during the class are still available at the store. Thanks too to Nikki Sivils for sending some freebie stuff; we gave them as prizes for the winners.

Here are some of the photos that Jeff and I were able to capture during the class.

The objective of the class was to be able to scrap more this year thus we made 4 simple layouts (maximizing the papers of the kit) in five hours. Ria and I made 2 layouts each using 6 patterned papers and 4 cardstock (for the base). We also made use of whatever embellishments we already have at home such as ribbons (we all have tons of them!) and thread/embroidery floss (which Ria turned to a DIY baker's twine - very clever indeed!). After the class, we still have plenty of scraps and papers to use for another layout or two!

The banners are made from the "Kites" paper. I wanted to make use of the paper other than cutting the kites so I turned them to 'banners' instead.

Ria and I are thankful for this wonderful opportunity to teach and share. Thank you to all those who participated in the class. We had fun and we are hoping for more classes this year!

Happy Easter!

2011-04-24T01:00:00.001+08:00

I hope you had an enriching Holy Week. We've missed most of the traditional Filipino activities this year like the Pabasa and the Visita Iglesia because Jeff and I were both sick. We decided to just stay at home for the Semana Santa.

Anyway, I'm sharing an Easter layout that I did last year but never got to post here. I made my own sketch for this layout.

left page

right page

For the banners; first, I cut different colors of felt cloth into triangles. Then I sew each color of pompoms on the cloth. To add more texture on the page, I embellished the crochet flowers with velvet brads.

All the photos used were printed using Canon Selphy. I edited the photos and placed two wallet sizes into one 4"x6" photo thus saving on the print outs. For all of the 7 pictures, I only printed 5 pcs of 4Rs.

Making my own sketch for this two page layout was fun!

title: Egg Hunt
supplies: patterned papers - BasicGrey, My Little Shoebox, and DCWV; cardstock - American Crafts; pompoms - Fancy Pants, felt - unknown; velvet brads - All About Scrapbooking; crochet flowers - Fancy pants; stickers - Scenic Route; mist - Memories Mist; letters - American Crafts and Heidi Swapp; rub ons - Daisy Bucket; pen - Uniball;

Hot Air Balloon Festival

2011-04-22T17:31:00.000+08:00

Here's my first 2 pager for this year. I used a sketch from Creating Keepsakes.

left page

right page

title: Hot Air Balloon Festival

materials used: cardstock - Bazzill; patterned papers - Fancy Pants, Echo Park, Cosmo Cricket, Sassafras Lass, Creative Imaginations, Scenic Route, Prima; baker's twine and sticker - Shabby Green Door; letters - American Crafts; buttons; pen

Memory Makers The Big Book of Scrapbook Pages

2011-04-09T18:15:00.005+08:00

Here's another surprise I found somewhere out there in the world wide web : ) After a year of waiting, the book is already out. Hope you'll get a copy of it.

I found this photo, here. I'm also happy to find the layouts of my friends, Ria, Iris and Janis!

Hello Sunshine!

2011-04-07T17:28:00.000+08:00

Here's a summer layout I made a couple of days ago. Glad to use some old stuff that I have like the transparency and the felt shapes.

title: Hello Sunshine

materials used: patterned papers and rub ons - Lily Bee; cardstock - Bazzill; buttons and felt - Fancy Pants; baker's twine - Shabby Green Door; transparency - Hambly Screen Prints; paint - Making Memories; pen

"Let's Celebrate" at Imaginisce Blog

2011-04-01T12:00:00.011+08:00

I must admit it at times I just want to relax and 'search' for my name in the web : ) I accidentally came across a few surprises. Here's one of those:

http://www.imaginisceblog.com/2011/03/i-spy-and-weekly-winners_25.html

Thanks Aphra and Imaginisce for this! You put a smile on my face!

My Little Shoebox March Sketch Challenge

2011-03-31T02:04:00.001+08:00

I have not been trying some sketches lately so I thought of giving the MLS March Sketch Challenge a try. Here's my layout:

The papers are a mix from different MLS lines. I must say I love those "snails" from the "Walk in the Park" paper.

title: Splash

materials used: patterned papers - My Little Shoebox; cardstock - Bazzill; letters - Jillibean Soup; chalk ink - Clearsnap; others - pen and buttons

Hope everyone is having a grand time this summer vacation (I'm saying this for those who are in the Philippines). Even though the PAGASA tells us that it's not yet summer, let's just enjoy the crazy weather we have at the moment : )

I Love You

2011-03-27T15:15:00.004+08:00

I was supposed to submit this for a manufacturer design team call but my right hand has been suffering from a strain that I wasn't able to make another layout. I just remember waking up one day feeling 'pain' in my right hand; it was still tolerable so I ignored it. The next days were difficult, I had to put a bandage around my right hand and use my left hand instead! I couldn't carry even a small notebook and a bidet! It took more than 2 weeks before I was feeling a little better. I couldn't possibly rest my working hand though since I had to cook and do some chores so now I'm back to square one! Sigh!

Anyway, I was still able to pull this layout through and for that I'm still happy. I just love how the colors matched!

title: I Love You

materials used: patterned papers - Jillibean Soup; flowers - American Crafts; felt shapes - Fancy Pants; rub ons - Daisy Bucket; brads - Queen & Co.; chipboard - BasicGrey

October Afternoon 'Modern Homemaker'

2011-03-25T15:02:00.000+08:00

Here's a layout I made for Lasting Impression using October Afternoon, "Modern Homemaker".

I wanted to use the "Party Line" paper which appear to be quite busy. So I limited the use of papers, one photo, and almost no embellishments but the title letters in my layout. I tucked the recipe underneath the photo to save on space too.

I love the colors of this line although it may appear a little subdued as any OA paper. I find the papers versatile enough to be used on any occasion including Christmas!

title: My Spareribs Adobo

materials used: patterned papers - October Afternoon (Modern Homemaker - Party Line, Canning Jar, Percolator); stickers - OA Word Stickers; letters - American Crafts, Jillibean Soup

Happy Birthday Jeff!

2011-03-21T14:51:00.000+08:00

I wish you the best of health (hope going to the gym frequently will soon be a lifestyle), peace of mind and lots of love and happiness!

Thanks for making our lives happy and comfortable! We Love You!

title: My Guy

materials used: patterned papers - Cosmo Cricket, Sassafras Lass; chipboard - Cosmo Cricket, Bella Boulevard; letters - American Crafts; paint - Making Memories; others - buttons

title: Happy 32nd Birthday

materials used: patterned papers - Imaginisce; chipboard - Bella Boulevard; sticker and letters - American Crafts; mists - Memories Mists, Tattered Angels; others - buttons

Are We There Yet?

2011-03-14T23:18:00.000+08:00

Must be the new famous line when we are out on trips. Ethan suddenly became very impatient with long trips. For our previous trip to Boracay, we traveled for an hour from our house to the airport. As soon as we've reached the airport, your guess is right, he asked if we were "there" already! When the airplane reached Kalibo, he asked the same question. On our each stop, he kept on asking me. By the time we reached Caticlan Port, I told him that the island of Boracay could already be seen from where we were standing. I laughed when he answered, "But I don't have energy anymore!"

Pardon me for the poor quality of the photos, we were only using our cellphone camera.

Thanks for your visit!

title: Are We There Yet?

materials used: patterned papers and chipboard - Cosmo Cricket Joy Ride and Li'l Man (thanks April!); K&Co.; others - buttons

Hongkong Trip

2011-03-08T18:35:00.021+08:00

Here's a layout about our first trip abroad (I'm referring to myself and Ethan). Ethan was only a year and a half year old this time. It was funny that when he saw me working with this layout, he told me that these pictures are really old and I'm still not done with them! My demanding preschooler strikes again!

There is actually some truth to that though. I sill have many pictures of him from the time he was born that are left unscrapped. I haven't even touched my pregnancy photos (that was when I was pregnant with him!). I'm trying to work double time before I give birth. So far, I've been scrapping quite fast.

title: HK Trip

supplies used: patterned papers - Prima (Thanks Iris) and K&Co.; baker's twine and sticker - Shabby Green Door; letters -Pink Paislee; pen; others - envelope

Let's Travel!

2011-03-06T18:32:00.002+08:00

It's summer time already (with some rains lately hehehe)! Most of us go on vacation trips during the months of March, April and May (I'm talking about here in the Philippines). In our family , we have so many pictures taken during our vacation trips that I haven't scrapped. Here's one of those pictures that I'm glad I've finally scrapped a month ago.

title: 1st Flight

supplies used: cardstock - unknown; patterned papers - Prima (Thanks Iris!) and K&Co.; mists - Tattered Angels; baker's twine - Shabby Green Door; others - coin envelope, buttons; stickers - Shabby Green Door, Jillibean Soup, Making Memories and 7Gypsies; chipboard - Bella Boulevard; pen

Ethan was still a baby during this time. It was his first flight in a plane! To hold the plane ticket that I have kept for almost 7 years hehehe, I used a small envelope I bought from a local bookstore. This is actually my first layout for the year but I never got to really finish it till the other day.

Since I started posting a travel layout for this month, I might as well post more vacation/travel layouts for the next days. Till the next post!

"Louie"

2011-02-27T13:50:00.000+08:00

"Louie", that's the name of the rabbit Ethan played during their Literary Presentation, "Rosie's Adventure". Ethan was quite shy when the program started, something unusual with his personality! During the dance numbers, he would be looking at his classmates from left and right as if he doesn't know the steps! He's really a funny boy!

title: "Louie"

materials used: patterned papers - Sassafras Lass; stickers - Jillibean Soup, BasicGrey, Sassafras Lass; flowers - American Crafts, Prima; buttons; chipboard - American Crafts; ribbon - Prima; ink - Versamark

An update on the layouts I made for the past two months - well, I couldn't keep up! I was expecting to make atleast 10 a month but I'm always stumped. Here's hoping for more layouts by March.

Sleeping Beauty

2011-02-23T00:33:00.000+08:00

I tried squeezing in six photos in one spread or in one 12"x12" layout but really couldn't figure out how so I ended up making two layouts instead. These layouts are far different from what I usually make. Notice the flowers and lace? It's good to use them once in awhile, right?

title: Sleeping Beauty

materials used: patterned papers, chipboard, stickers - BasicGrey; journaling block - Fancy Pants; rub ons - Daisy Bucket

title: Once Upon A Time

materials used: cardstock - Bazzill, DCWV; patterned papers - Basicgrey, Cosmo Cricket; flowers - Prima; chipboard - Cosmo Cricket; brads - WRMK; pin; lace - Prima; ink - Versamark

Thanks again to my dear friend, April for the BasicGrey papers and embellishments I used in these layouts!

Three!

2011-02-18T17:00:00.001+08:00

Finally I was able to scrap Ethan's 3rd Birthday pictures! Thanks to my friend, April for the Imaginisce and My Little Shoebox papers.

title: 3 y.o.

materials used: cardstock - Bazzill; patterned papers - My Little Shoebox; paint - Making Memories; stickers - American Crafts; rub ons - Daisy Bucket; buttons; pen - Sakura

title: Let's Celebrate

materials used: cardstock - Bazzill; patterned papers - Imaginisce; card - Teresa Collins; baker's twine - Shabby Green Door; buttons - Fancy Pants; mists - Memories Mist; pen - Sakura

Happy Valentine's Day!

2011-02-14T00:00:00.058+08:00

Any plans for today? Yesterday, we already had our Valentine Family Day via the 16th Philippine Hot Air Balloon Festival at Clark, Pampanga. It was a fun road trip and even though we were tired from the walking and the heat of the sun, we still had fun. Perhaps next year, we need to be a little earlier and maybe we should watch on the first day instead to avoid the crowd.

Anyway since it's V Day, I'm sharing here a layout I made for my one and only ....

The pictures were taken on a photo booth when we attended a party. Though the resolution of the pictures are not as good, I wanted to scrap them anyway. I'm lucky to find these papers from Shabby Green Door. I've had these for almost two years now including these rub ons which are all perfect for the "Cowboy" theme of this layout.

title: My Hero

materials used: cardstock - Bazzill; patterned papers, rub ons - Shabby Green Door; stamps - Daisy Bucket and Shabby Green Door; ink - Versamark, Staz On; metal embellishments - We R Memory Keepers; stickers - American Crafts, Shabby Green Door; raffia

Happy Valentine's Day!

Almost Summer

2011-02-10T14:07:00.002+08:00

Notice the sudden change of weather? It must be the start of summer! And because of that weather change, I'm having asthma attack ... oh well! It's worse at night time when I'm already lying in bed. It's like there's an orchestra in the house ... I'll cough, followed by Ethan then Jeff hehehe.

Speaking of summer, here's a layout I made about Ethan's first summer out of town trip. It was his first time in the beach although we didn't let him swim yet.

It took more than three hours to get to Subic coming from Cavite and I was already worried about the long trip for Ethan because he was only 5 months old. But we survived it. Jeff and I also had our first try in parasailing although we didn't bring our camera in the boat so there weren't any pictures to show.

title: 1st Trip

materials used: cardstock - Bazzill; patterned papers - Lily Bee (thanks Iris!), My Little Shoebox, Imaginisce, Fancy Pants; buttons; ribbons; stickers - Pink Paislee, American Crafts, Shabby Green Door, 7 Gypsies; pen - Sakura

Senior Kinder

2011-02-09T00:00:00.001+08:00

Soon Ethan will be graduating from Senior Kinder. How fast time flies. Three years ago, we were just attending our new parents' orientation. Now, we are all familiar with the school, the administrators, teachers and auxiliary staff. We love Rosemont much as we love all the people we have met along the way including co-parents whom we have become close friends.

I'm sharing with you a layout of Ethan's 1st day in Senior Kinder. I created this layout last year but didn't get to post it here. I included a pencil which Ethan actually used this schoolyear.

title: Senior Kinder

materials used: patterned papers - Crate, October Afternoon, Sassafras Lass, Cosmo Cricket; stickers - American Crafts, Heidi Swapp, Scenic Route; pen; Ethan's own school pencil

The pictures include the classroom of Ethan (I took a picture of the their door), the class list, Ethan with his new class adviser and of course Ethan with his new school bag. I'm glad I took all of these little details that day.

Here's another layout using the souvenir photo taken during Rosemont's Father's Day. We really enjoyed this year's Father's Day because Ethan and Jeff got to play golf and pass the baton together! Ethan is also proud that Daddy took the extra effort to dance during the Cheerdancing Competition.

title: Dad's Cup

materials used: patterned papers - Bella Boulevard, Echo park, Scenic Route, Daisy Bucket; chipboard - Bella Boulevard; rub ons - Daisy Bucket; mists - Tattered Angels; baker's twine - Shabby Green Door; ribbon - Ki Memories

Finally a New Layout!

2011-02-08T02:52:00.001+08:00

It feels good to be back on posting at my blog. As you all know by now, I'm pregnant with our second child and with no househelp for more than a month and a difficult pregnancy, blogging and scrapping took a backseat for awhile. I managed to make a few layouts during the first month of the year unfortunately my camera's kit lens is no longer working so I wasn't able to take pictures of them.

Anyway, I'm happy that Arlene, a friend of my mine lent me her kit lens so now I got to take pics of my layouts! Yipee! Not only that, my friends, April, Arlene and Ria gave me some papers and embellishments - double yipee for me!!! It's really nice to have very generous friends! I also got my DT kit from Lasting Impression - yummy papers from October Afternoon! I'll be working on my DT layout and share it soon!

Now, here's a layout I've just finished. My other layouts would be posted on the following days.

Layout title: Close Encounter with a Tiger

supplies used: patterned papers - Studio Calico, Sassafras Lass, Cosmo Cricket, My Mind's Eye; stickers - Echo Park, K&Co., Scenic Route; ribbon - Fancy Pants; mists - Memories Mists; ink - Versamark; others - pen, rafia, buttons

By the way, thanks so much for all those who signed up for mine and Ria's class! We'll see you on March 19 at Lasting Impression!

-Pia

My Top Ten of 2010

2011-01-10T02:20:00.000+08:00

Happy New Year! I have taken a loooong break from blogging and scrapping to attend to some more important things this Holiday season.

Counting our blessings each year makes us grateful for all that we have received despite all the problems we have gone through. It is through our blessings that we know and feel God's love and grace!

Here's our top ten list for 2010 ... memorable events of our life and a shower of blessings from God.

10. Just when I thought it was over, we were given another opportunity to design scrapbook layouts for no less than Ms. Kris Aquino. The layouts came out on a special travel issue of K magazine in November of 2010.

9. Towards the end of the year, I found out that I was able to reach my goal for Project 52 (layouts for clients are not even included). I felt happy that I'm back to scrapping again! Bonuses are the published layouts on Creating Keepsakes for their September and October 2010 issues. What a dream come true for me!

my first layout for 2010 and one of my faves this year

8. Ethan moved up to Senior Kinder. During their culminating activity, he was given the Orderly Award!

7. A shinning robot - that was my Ethan when he joined the Trumpets Playshop during summer. A culminating activity in GCF Auditorium was held where Ethan showed how much he loves to act, dance and sing!

6. Ethan took the School Readiness Test in Southridge School. He passed with flying colors, "97% National Percentile Rank with a Stanine of 8, Above Average in Readiness! Cheers to our smart boy!

5. An adventurous summer for all of us in Boracay! Ethan tried parasailing, helmet diving (almost), banana boat sailing and jetskiing! While I finally had the guts to try jetskiing (I'm such a late bloomer you know). This is by far, our most memorable summer!

4. Family Birthdays - Jeff turned 33 on March 21, Ethan turned 6 on Oct. 22 while I turned 33 on Dec. 17! We are more than thankful for the gift of life, for being able to wake up each day and experience God's presence in our lives and being together as a family.

We celebrated Jeff's birthday with my inlaws at Saisaki Restaurant

Ethan celebrated his 6th Birthday with an Under Construction Party at Jollibee

My birthday was celebrated with family and new friends at the Christmas party of Ohana

3. Our 7th Year Anniversary. For being married to my soulmate and bestfriend for 7 years have been such a bliss! I couldn't imagine my life without him - after all, I think I have learned to love all his quirks! : )

2. Moving to our humble abode this November is by far, one of the turning points in all of our lives. The bold move to own a house is one of the best decisions that we have made. We love our new house even if it's small, what matters now is that we can finally say, "We Are Home!"

we celebrated Christmas with our families in our very own house

1. New house ... new life ... new year, what better way to cap off the year with a bang! God is really good that He's giving us a new member of the family! We are so happy to announce that we are pregnant!

We are anticipating the Year of the Metal Rabbit with much enthusiasm! We hope that this year, we would be able to

- put up small businesses

- send Ethan to Southridge this year

- renovate the house

A blessed 2011 everyone!

Day 6, 7 and 8 - Of Christmas Wishes and Good Deeds!

2010-12-09T19:34:00.002+08:00

What are your wishes for Christmas? In our family, it has been a tradition to list our own wishes. We've skipped this tradition for some years but this year we are reviving it. We have kept our wishes; usually tucked inside my scrapbook layouts and we checked which ones came true on or after Christmas. Most of the time, it was Ethan's wish/es which always came true : ) Surprisingly though, most of our wishes have become answered prayers - yun nga lang after one year hehehe. I know that God gives us what we need or what we have prayed for in His time ...

Being a child at heart, I have always believed in dreams and wishes; that if one would give his/her heart into something, it is meant to come true. This year, life has been quite difficult and believing in dreams and wishes is something that I am trying to work on. Life has been tough for me and Jeff and as much as we are happy that Christmas is fast approaching, we are bothered by so many things. I am praying and "wishing" that everything will soon be okay ... that our prayers would be answered.

Enough of my thoughts. December 6 was back to school for Ethan to prepare for his exams next week and their Christmas party. Meanwhile, it was back to work for me and Jeff.

December 7 was my mentor chat in school. I have always known what to expect - Ethan's mischiefs and fights with his classmates especially with the girls hehehe! But I was surprised when Teacher Noemi said that he has improved. Towards the end of the year, Ethan has become more mature and would focus more on his work. I have always heard that I don't have any problems with Ethan on his academics, in fact, I was even told that he is one of the above average students of his class. But every now and then, the teacher will tell me about Ethan being soooo talkative that he has to be placed in different seats every now and then!

I guess Ethan has changed right after he turned 6. Last Sunday, during our Christmas party, I have seen that he was more patient with kids younger than him. He also was following and obeying.

I was able to smile after the mentor chat.

December 8th was the Feast of Immaculate Conception. Ethan told me that he wrote something on an ornament which was his good deed in school. He hung the said ornament on their Good Deed Christmas Tree. When I asked him what was the deed, he answered that he shared his food with his teachers (akala ko pa naman classmate hehehe) Good job, Ethan! Sana araw-araw hehehe.

I'm sharing these layouts I made for my friend.

I scraplifted my layout, "Decorate My Donut" because I fell in love with the design. It was clean, simple and easy to make. Not my usual style but something that I like at the moment.

I used Sketch 215 of Pencil Lines. I didn't make it to the deadline but I'm happy with my output.

{Countdown: 17 days before Christmas}

Day 6 - Chritsmas is All Around

2010-12-08T23:49:00.001+08:00

Since Day 1 of December, we have noticed that Rosemont has been preparing for Christmas.

I saw this one inside their classroom ... Ethan's very own Santa!

They also have a Good Deed Christmas Tree which I haven't taken a picture yet. The tree will be adorned by good deeds of the children.

This one is at the lobby ... this greets everyone coming inside the school. The reason of the Season!

Everyday too, the kids would sing Christmas carols before they head to their respective classrooms! I just love watching them sing and dance.

Day 4 and 5 - Of Friendships and Reunions

2010-12-08T22:27:00.007+08:00

Before the Christmas stories, I want to share with you a layout I did the other day. I was so inspired to create that night after a visit from a friend who's everyone's idol in scrapbooking : )To find out who is she, read on ; )

title: Decorate My Donut

material used: patterned papers - BasicGrey Nook & Pantry; rub ons - Studio K; brad - Nikki Sivils; and Crate; buttons - unknown

I made the doughnut and I just love it!

Now, on with my story ...

Day 4 of December, we were so happy to be receiving guests in our home. Afternoon of that day, my parents came to visit us. It was my mom's first time to see our house although she already saw Ohana when we haven't moved yet. My parents brought Macaroni Soup for their favorite apo as well as candies and gelatin!

By evening, we were visited by no less than Master Iris together with her hubby, Bryan and her daughter, Nicole. My pretty and generous kumare even brought with her a box of pizza and noodles! The rest of the evening was spent chatting not about scrapbooking huh (it came out as a surprise hehehe) but about Bryan's auto detailing business.

Thanks sis for dropping by!

We love that we were surrounded by family and friends that day!

Day 5 of December was our much awaited reunion and Christmas party of my college friends. Back in college, I was a member of a religious and socio-civic group called Pax Romana. We call ourselves, Paxies. Even though the members came from different colleges, we have become very close and have kept our friendship through the years.

The night was filled with games for the kids and adults! Our ears were about to burst because of the laughter, singing, shouting and playing of our kids! It was chaotic but fun! Ethan was raving about this party!

The highlight of the evening was the marshmallow game for the adults. A player must put marshmallows inside his/her mouth (one at a time), then he/she must say a word/s (the word would be picked from a glass or a bowl), the word/s must be guessed by his/her team members. If the members can't guess the word, the other team has a chance to steal. The boys was the first to do this and were only able to guess 2 words from the team representative. So the girls had to outdo the boys by guessing atleast 3 (or more). I was the first rep from my team and luckily was able to swallow (but we were not allowed to chew or eat) 5 marshmallows while my team mates guess the words I was saying. It was really hilarious because even after me, the boys were able to guess 6 words! The girls outdid the boys again but after that their team rep was able to swallow 10 marshmallows and was still able to talk! Grabe we couldn't figure out how that happened! I had a tummy ache because of too much laughing!

The kids also sang some Christmas carols. We had an exchange gift and lots of group picture taking. Hope to post the pictures here soon. I'm still waiting for our friend to share the pics in facebook : )

{Countdown: 18 days before Christmas}

Day 3 - Rosemont Outreach

2010-12-04T00:17:00.002+08:00

It's day 3 of December! Ethan was up by 6am! That's really surprising because we are not morning persons at home. The last time Ethan was up very very early (as early as 5am) was during his 6th birthday! I guess when he is too excited about something, he's very conscious to wake himself up.

When I woke up, he told me to hurry because as what he said, "the poor kids are coming to school today!" I wonder what they were told in school that made Ethan so eager to leave the house Anyway, we dressed him up again for the Literary presentation. They are going to showcase their play.

In school, the program started with a medley of Christmas songs sang by Rosemont kids. After that, it was the turn of the kids from Sacred Heart School (outreach kids) to present a number. Some of the students danced the Tinikling! They were really good! After that they also sang a medley of Tagalog Christmas songs. That number was followed by another dance number, this time from the Korean students of Rosemont. We love watching this dance that gives us a glimpse of Korean culture.

Can you spot my white bunny? The kids were singing a medley of Christmas songs.

One of the highlights of the afternoon event was the repeat of the Literary Play by the SK students. Ethan did a better job today than their previous performance last Friday. His voice was louder, the words are clearer, and he would smile while dancing.

I think another exciting part of the program was the appearance of Jollibee! This one was so funny because Jollibee's toque fell from his head a few times while dancing hehehe.

The Rosemont and Sacred Heart kids were able to interact inside the respective classrooms. They exchanged gifts (rosaries from Rosemont and bracelets from Sacred Heart). The lootbags were also distributed before the kids left.

I wasn't able to get many pictures inside the classroom. Most of the time, the camera will just hung : (

The kids played a guessing game. Those who answered got a prize money!

Tonight, Ethan told me his good deed. He said that he approached one of the kids from Sacred Heart. He asked his name; it was Nonol. Though they only exchanged a few words because of lack of time, I'm glad that Ethan initiated to make friends. I just wish there were games and more time for the kids to interact.

{Countdown: 22 days before Christmas}

-Pia

Christmas Ready

2010-12-02T23:07:00.073+08:00

I think my son is ...

title: Christmas Ready

materials used: patterned papers - Nikki Sivils, American Crafts, Teresa Collins, Cosmo Cricket, Lily Bee; buttons - Fancy Pants; mists - Tattered Angels; clock - 7Gypsies; baker's twine - Shabby Green Door; stamps - Daisy Bucket, Absolument Scrap Stamp

This photo was taken last year. We were so excited that December because we were celebrating Christmas in our own house. That was the first after almost 5 years of living with my in laws ' house. Ethan felt everything was ready then because the tree and the decors were up early.

For this layout, I tried the color palette from The Color Room . I'm not sure if I gave justice to the green and teal though. Anyway, I'm just happy that I am scrapping again lately. I really pray that scrapping will give me more jobs again, if you know what I mean.

On another story, awhile ago I was channeling my inner "Iris". I was using Websters' Pages and so I thought that the best work samples will be from the Master. I was right, I went to her blog and stared at her layouts for minutes. I would take a peak in her layouts once in awhile to get inspired. Thanks Master!

Websters papers are gorgeous but boy they give me a headache as to how to maximize each sheet of paper. Anyway, I tried my best and was quite happy with what I have achieved. I wish I can make use of the Christmas papers I bought from Websters last year hehehe.

An update on the good deeds:

Before that though let me tell you what we did yesterday before going to bed. I read to Ethan, "The Legend of the Candy Cane". It's not a new story for him but it suddenly became one, I guess because it has been a year since I last read it to him. I like how a simple candy can remind us of Jesus' love for humanity. Awhile ago at the supermarket, Ethan got a candy cane with red, green and white stripes. He asked me, "Mom, what do the green stripes mean?" I couldn't answer kasi in the story red and white lang yung stripes and each has its own meaning! Malay ko ba naman sa green hahaha!

Well, about the good deeds (I haven't forgotten hehehe), Ethan was counting all his good deeds at the end of the day. He told me that he handed me my cell phone when I asked him to and other things that we asked him to do. I think that's all he can remember yesterday.

For today, he has been telling me since this afternoon that he already has plenty of good deeds. As of night time, he recounted that he uses "po and opo" when conversing, he was quiet when he was taking a bath (I can't believe that he considers this as a good deed! He's usually noisy kasi eh kaya siguro he thinks that being quiet is already something hehehe). I can't remember the others though I wish I can hear him say, "I helped a classmate or a teacher today", something like that. Anyway, there's still a long way to go. Tomorrow is the annual Outreach Program in Rosemont. There's so much explaining I need to do as to why these kids from the outreach are less fortunate and why they need our help. Tomorrow, the kids from Senior Kinder will showcase their literary presentation for their guests. Ethan will be a cute bunny again! Story about that on my next blog post!

Thanks!

{Countdown: 23 days before Christmas}

-Pia

First Day of December

2010-12-01T21:23:00.000+08:00

Today marks the 1st day of December. We are so excited to do our countdown. Again, I didn't make an advent calendar this year because I am running out of supplies hehehe. But I'm determined to scrap some Christmas layouts this December and not to worry too much about the bills. I wanted us to enjoy Christmas especially that we are in our new home.

Welcome to our Home!

This is where Ethan usually spends most of his time here. He sits on his chair, eats his pandesal and enjoys the view from the balcony.

Last night I talked to Ethan and explained to him that in 25 days we will be celebrating Jesus' birthday. It's a good thing he didn't ask me how old is He : ) I told him that we will give Jesus a birthday gift by doing good deeds each day till the 25th. Of course, doing good deeds need not be done only during these days. I just want Ethan to make a conscious effort each day to do something good. I told him that at the end of the day, I will ask him what are his good deeds.

Ethan knows the birthday of Jesus but he's quite unsure of our "birthday gift" and instead suggested we buy something from the store hehehe. I needed to explain further why Jesus would appreciate more if we do good to others. He then agreed ...

I hope this is a good start.

I took pictures of our Holiday decors that have been up for quite some time now. I used mostly what we already have from the previous year. Though we added some black and white balls in our tree. Since we noticed that most of our furnishings and even curtains are black and white, we decided to use those colors in our tree too.

The Christmas bear been with us since Ethan was a baby. For sentimental reasons, I decided to place it at the middle of the wreath.

We put a garland on our balcony railing. I liked how I was able to capture the reflection of the clubhouse and the pool.

While we were putting up our decors, a funny thing happened. I was almost done with the tree when I said that I'm going to buy a tree skirt. Here's what the kulit bulilit has to say:

Ethan: What? A skirt for the tree? That's so silly mom!

He's not yet contented with that comment and further added:

Ethan: : Imagine, putting a skirt on the tree?!? (umiiling iling pa)

My life will never be dull with this boy around ...

Anyway, it was a good thing that Jeff helped us put up the Christmas decors this year. I really appreciate all his help. I've always wanted him to get involved with the decorating of the house. Unfortunately, there aren't any pictures for me to share. It was quite a handful to decorate and take pictures at the same time.

Now for some new layouts ... I finally took pictures of some of my quickie layouts.

This is a layout I made for Lasting Impression using Imaginisce Scooter's Vacation. This line can be used not only for travel pictures but other outdoor pictures as well.

The stamps look like rub ons, right? That can easily be achieved by coloring the stamped images. I was like a kid and was enjoying myself with the colors!

title: Toy Scooter

materials used: patterned papers - Imaginisce Scooter's Vacation (Ruffin' It,Now Em-barking, Go, Scooter, Go), Lily Bee; chipboard - Imaginisce; stamps - Daisy Bucket Designs, Tim Holtz; color pencils - Faber Castell; ink - Staz On; letters - Prima and Pink Paislee; buttons - Fancy Pants

Now for a Christmas layout. Here's Ethan when he was still three years old. My mom bought that cake for Christmas so Ethan can blow the candles for Jesus : ) This another tradition that I wish to continue.

Some of the papers that I used here are not Christmas themed. I used the same techniques with the stamps but I can see that I'm not good at it : ) Oh well, better luck next time.

title: Happy Birthday Jesus!

materials used: patterned papers - BasicGrey, Cosmo Cricket, Kaisercrafts; chipboard - Cosmo Cricket; buttons - Fancy Pants; stamps - Daisy Bucket Designs; ink- Versamark; color pencils - Faber Castell; baker's twine - Shabby Green Door; letters - American Crafts

Thanks for dropping by!

{Countdown: 24 days before Christmas}

-Pia

It's Good to Be Back!

2010-11-30T03:16:00.002+08:00

I feel so good to be finally back to blogging! For not blogging for more than a month, it took me several minutes to finally remember my password. Can you imagine my fear?! Every time I try to recover my password, I can't tell why I always end up doing the same process and not being able to access it. I was left without a choice but to rack my brain. Until I remembered hehehe.

Well, anyway, I have so many good news to share with you after a month of hiatus! This is going to be a very looong post ...

First things first ... we've moved to our very own home!!! After going through some crises this year, we were able to get a place of our own. Our very supportive parents have helped us finance the downpayment for this beautiful place we found somewhere in the south. We love the proximity of our new home to Ethan's school - atleast he doesn't have to be stressed out traveling. We are still facing a lot of difficulties right now but God has always been good to our family, I believe that all of these things shall pass.

I hope to share some pictures of our home but it looks quite empty right now : ) Since we have moved, we have not bought the "other essential" things our house needs but as what I have mentioned, we know that God will provide us with what we need. We just have to be patient. As for now, we are more than thankful for all the blessings that He has given our family.

Anyway, I was able to capture a photo of the building where our unit is located from this site. I'm sharing it here.

Next, Ethan celebrated his 6th birthday with an "Under Construction" theme at Jollibee last October 22! Again, thanks for my in laws for making this birthday party possible! Ethan was the one who chose the theme (as always). We invited only few of his classmates.

Most of the party decors are DIY stuff - invites, lootbags, table centerpieces and gift tags. An old friend of mine and a classmate from high school was the one who made Ethan's birthday cake. Her name is Chef Lulu of Foodsense. We love how the cake turned out. I just bought cheap plastic construction toys from SM and used them as cake toppers. All the other cake decors were created by hand by Chef Lulu.

I was lucky to find these plastic lootbags from Gourdo's. The theme is not Bob the Builder though it's still has something to do with construction hehehe : ) The bags are on sale when I bought it.

Ethan still raves about his party days after. As what I have said before, we like small parties since they are easier to manage and Ethan gets to pick only his closest friends.

A week after this party, my parents threw another party for their first apo! Ethan is such a lucky boy! This time we had a Halloween birthday party since it was spent a day before Halloween. I just bought a small round cake and place some Halloween candies as toppers. I bought some Halloween plastic lootbags and filled it up with candies. We asked the guests (only a few of our family and friends) to come in their costumes! I'm trying to figure out where I downloaded the pictures so for now, I can't share it yet.

Before the sembreak, Rosemont had their annual "Children's Day". Ethan was a robot that day! We let him use his robot costume again para sulit! We were asked to make Ethan's lootbag so I used an old paper bag and used up my paper scraps to make a "robot". I used old batteries, screw brads, googly eyes and a bookplate to make the face of the robot.

The next day is another treat for this little boy. We had our annual trick or treat in AAV. Ethan was a Knight in Shining Armor. It was supposed to be a day to go around the village for some treats but we ended up with a playdate instead!

I have some layouts which I made weeks ago but until now it's either I do not have journaling for the layout or I haven't taken a picture of it yet. Unfortunately, I couldn't use our SLR as often as I would like to. Since last month, it has been showing up the "error 99" on its' screen : ( Owning a new camera is not our priority nowadays though since we have so many things in our plate. Sigh! Here's hoping for a new SLR come next year.

Till my next update. Thanks for dropping by!

{Countdown: 25 days before Christmas}

-Pia
11.30.10

Insect Report

2010-10-18T12:33:00.000+08:00

I noticed that I have been sharing Halloween layouts for this month so I decided to post a non Halloween layout for a change.

Hidden inside the envelope are the actual report and actual picture of the Goliath Beetle that Ethan used for his report.

materaials used: patterned papers - BasicGrey, Echo Park, Lily Bee, Crate; cardstock - American Crafts; journaling block - Scenic Route; mist - Memories Mist and Tattered Angels; stickers - Jillibean Soup, American Crafts; pompoms - Prima; stamp - Daisy Bucket; envelope - 7 Gypsies; pen - Uniball

{Countdown: 68 days before Christmas}

-Pia
10.19.10

Kris Aquino's Halloween Holiday 2008

2010-10-14T18:49:00.000+08:00

This post is long overdue. This was my first project for a celebrity and how lucky I am that I did it for Ms. Kris Aquino!

My friend, Dedet who is the editor in chief of Working Mom Magazine (ABS CBN Publishing) recommended me to Sheila Quieta, who is the managing editor of K Mag. Since then we've already made 4 projects for the magazine and we are very thankful for this wonderful opportunity. Unfortunately, my second traditional scrapbook project for Kris was never published at the mag. This was during former President Cory Aquino's illness and Kris had to take a break from the magazine. I did Bimby's 2nd birthday album. My only regret was I never took pictures of my layouts before I gave it to Sheila because I was hoping to see my layouts published in the mag. Anyway, God is really good because before the year ends, another project of ours will be published in the said mag!

Here are the layouts I made for the Nov/Dec 2008 issue of K Mag. The layouts are originally 8" x 8" in size or 8" x 16" (spread). When I got a call from Sheila, I only had less than a week to do this project and to top it all the pictures are still not with them since Kris just recently came from Hongkong. I was just told that the vacation took place in HK Disneyland during the sembreak/Halloween. I assumed that the photos are Halloween themed. I looked through HK Disneyland's website to have an idea of how the park looks when it's dressed up for Halloween. I already made few layouts when I get to see the photos.

I went to ABS CBN Publishing office to choose the pictures for the scrapbook. I spent more than 3 hours going through the photos! I also brought my stuff so I can make some layouts.

My layouts were then photographed and the pictures were added digitally by their graphic artist thus I have no hand on the cropping of the photos. I never even get to see the finished layouts till I bought the magazine : ) But it was all worth the wait!

I believe that these aren't my best layouts. I was really pressured while I was creating these. I knew I had to let go when I'm working under pressure. Hopefully there would be lots of next time to do better ; )

{Countdown: 72 days before Christmas}

-Pia
10.14.10

Creating Keepsakes, October 2010 issue

2010-10-09T12:13:00.004+08:00

... just sharing another layout that made it to CK! Woohoo!!!

You can check my layout at page 34 ...

And here's a layout from my friend, Ria.

Ria used our photos that Jeff took during Nadya's party. It's like having two layouts for this issue hehehe!

I will be sharing my Halloween layouts from Kris' Magazine way back in 2008 (finally I was able to take pictures hehehe!) this week!

Thanks for sharing my excitement!

{Countdown: 77 days before Christmas}

-Pia
10.09.10

Fright Night

2010-10-01T00:00:00.057+08:00

It's the start of October already and I'm so excited to dress up Ethan for Halloween! I'm not so sure what costume he will like this year though - he's such a fickle minded guy.

Anyway, here's a Halloween layout I'd like to share with you . This is Ethan's first time to do Trick or Treat taken in 2008! He really had fun going around the village getting candies and meeting other Trick or Treaters!

To make the journaling lines, I painted the edges of my plastic ruler with red. I then pressed the ruler on the paper to make the lines. The title (Fright) was accidentally pressed with red paint when I was putting borders around the top photo. I couldn't erase the paint so I decided to smudge/drop few paint on the title : )

title: Fright Night

patterned papers - Fancy Pants, Sassafras Lass and October Afternoon; die cut paper - My Little Yellow Bicycle; stickers - Cloud 9 Design and Prima; brads - Chatterbox; paint - Making Memories; pen - Uniball Signo and Zig

journaling: From the beautiful Snow White, to a forever young Peter Pan, to a wise-cracking Freddy Kruger, to the scary Grim Reaper, to the brave Roman soldiers and to the feared Spartan soldier ... Pirate Ethan had the time of his life in just one frightful night.

{Countdown: 84 days before Christmas}

-Pia
10.01.10

Spotlight on Tea Ladies

2010-09-27T16:56:00.002+08:00

Just want to share that staring this week, a Tea Lady will be featured at the blog. I hope you can find time to hop in and check in the DT's layouts. For this week, I'm at the spotlight!

On another news, my layout, "Book Fair" was chosen as honorable mention in one of the challenges posted at My Scrapbook Nook! Thanks to Stacey for the wonderful comments she had for my layout!

I'll be back for more news and layouts ... Thanks for dropping by!

Countdown: {88 days before Christmas}

-Pia
09.27.10

Falling with Style

2010-09-22T03:15:00.001+08:00

Before I share with you may layout, I'd like to thank everyone who prayed for Ethan's recovery. We got the blood tests' results today and found out out that he is negative with dengue fever. Although it was found out that he is positive with typhoid fever, we are already thankful that it was nothing very serious. He has been given antibiotics since Saturday so the medication has already been taking effect since then. Our family is grateful for all our friends who left messages in my facebook account as well as those who sent their messages through texts.

Anyway, here's me and Ethan last year during the celebration of Mother's Day. Usually Mother's Day is celebrated every September coinciding Mama Mary's birthday in their school.

For the strips of paper, I used the small pieces of scraps that I have. Cutting and adhering the strips was quite time consuming though.

I made this layout weeks ago. I have not been scrapping because of the recent illness of Ethan and some things that we are busy with at the moment. I'm quite sad that I wasn't able to make more layouts for the Scrapbook Nook U Contest which is almost about to end : (

I'm really running low on supplies. I think I have used up almost all of my papers. Most of the ones that were left are scraps. I have very few old papers which I really want to use and get rid off! I'm glad that I have been scrapping again and using my stuff - atleast they aren't wasted!

materials used: cardstock - Bazzill; patterned papers - Sassfras Lass, Scenic Route, American Crafts; rub ons - Daisy Bucket; letters - American Crafts and Prima; brads - All About Scrapbooking; buttons - unknown; chipboard - Chatterbox; baker's twine - Shabby Green Door; pen - Uniball

Countdown: {93 days before Christmas}

-Pia

09.22.10

page 32 of Creating Keepsakes

2010-09-13T23:00:00.003+08:00

I'm so thrilled to share with you that my layout, "1st Dentist Visit" is published at the September 2010 issue of CK!!!

I'm just so thankful for this newbie moment. I'm hoping this could be the start of more published layouts for me. Thanks for sharing my joy!

-Pia

Scrapbook Nook U is in Session!

2010-09-10T23:12:00.018+08:00

I recently joined an online scrapbook contest at My Scrapbook Nook. I just want to make pages for this busy month and have fun. It has been awhile since I last joined something like this.

So far I have only finished two of the challenges. Here are my takes:

Graphic Design 101: Our assignment was to create a layout that clearly demonstrates at least one of the basics of design (focal point, visual triangle, asymmetry/symmetry etc.)

I used these design elements:

1. Having a clear focal point by using the rule of thirds.
2. Having contrast on my page by using black as a background and splatting yellow paint therefore making the elements on the page pop. I also embellished my title by using a smiley instead of the letter "o" and placing an owl on the top.
3. Creating flow on the layout by using the horizontal strips of papers which leads the eye of the viewers to the focal point.
4. Three elements create an illusion of a visual triangle - the journaling blocks, the pictures and the title at the bottom.
5. Having asymmetrical balance

title: Book Fair

materials used: cardstock - Bazzill; patterned papers - Scenic Route, Sassafras Lass, Cosmo Cricket, Junkitz; stickers - October Afternoon; paint - Making Memories; pen - Uniball

Typography 101: Our assignment was to create a layout where the title/text is the focus of the page. We need to use at least three different fonts and two different colors of stickers on our page.

Since the topic of my layout is about the things my son says, I focused on fonts/letters. I used 4 fonts for my title. I also chose the colors that are basically present on my patterned papers. I added a dash of rub ons from Lily Bee across the page. For my journaling, I decided to use my own handwriting.

title: The Funny Things to Say

materials used: patterned papers - Sassafras Lass, Crate, Scenic Route, American Crafts; stickers - 7Gypsies; rub ons - Lily Bee; letters - American Crafts, Jillibean Soup, BasicGrey, Pink Paislee; pen - Uniball

I'm glad I can almost reach my 52 layout goal for this year even though it's only September!

Wish me luck to finish this contest till the end. I have no intentions to win, I just want to create as many layouts and have fun!

Countdown: {106 days before Christmas}

-Pia

09.10.10

Let the Countdown Begin

2010-09-01T23:57:00.002+08:00

What countdown? You're probably thinking ... Well, I just thought that since it's September already and the "ber" months have just begun, the countdown for Christmas should officially start today! Christmas in the Philippines is the longest in the world and I so love that!

Aside from Christmas though, we are looking forward too to another favorite holiday which is Halloween. I recently went to Divisoria and I already saw Halloween and Christmas decors! I already have ideas on my mind on how to decorate our new house. Can't wait!

Speaking of holidays, here are some "early Holiday layouts":

Title: Spooky Wreath
materials used: patterned papers - Making Memories, Fancy Pants; stickers - American Crafts, Creative Imaginations; buttons, pen - Uniball

Title: The Season of Sharing
materials used: cardstock - Bazzill; patterned papers - Cosmo Cricket, WRMK, Chatterbox and My Mind's Eye, Sassafras Lass; chipboard - Cosmo Cricket; ink - Clearsnap; buttons brads - Making Memories; blings - Prima; letter stickers - American Crafts, Making Memories

Countdown : 115 days before Christmas!

-Pia

09.01.10

Buwan ng Wika

2010-08-31T23:23:00.004+08:00

Kailan ba ako huling nagsulat sa ating Wikang Pambansa? Hmmm ... hindi ko na maalala kaya bilang paggunita sa Buwan ng Wika, sabi ko sa sarili ko, pipilitin kong magsulat muli sa Filipino. Gusto ko na sanang sumuko dahil sa totoo lang nagdudugo na ang ilong ko ngayon pa lang. Pero sige, sa ngalan ng pagmamahal sa ating wika ay ibubuhos ko ang lahat ng alam kong Tagalog/Filipino.

Noong nakaraang linggo ay sinimulan sa Rosemont ang iba't ibang aktibidad upang ipagdiwang ang Buwan ng Wika. Ang Senior Kinder ay nagkaroon ng Munting Salo-Salu kung saan ang bawat estudyante ay naatasang magdala ng isang pagkaing Filipino. Si Ethan ay naatasang magdala ng bibingka.Sayang at hindi ko nakita ang ibang mga pagkaing dala ng kanyang mga kaklase (ibig kong sabihin sayang at di ko natikaman ang pansit at chicharon na ayon kay Ethan ay masarap hehehe).

Bago nagkaroon ng salo-salo, ang mga bata ay naglaro muna ng iba't ibang larong Filipino. Kahit hindi man masabi ni Ethan sa akin kung ano ang kanilang nilaro, sa tingin ko naging masaya naman siya (dahil sa mga premyong laman ng kanyang baunan : D

Isang linggo din na mga palabas tungkol sa mga Katutubong sayaw ang ipinapanood sa kanilang klase. Tinuruan din sila ng ilang kanta at sayaw. Pati na rin ang pagbibilang sa Filipino. Hindi ko malaman kung matatawa o maaawa kay Ethan dahil pagdating ng anim ay hirap na siya kung ano ang susunod! Hay naku, may mali yata ako kasi hindi ko man lang siya tinuruan! Tsk tsk tsk.

Nitong Huwebes, Agosto 19, ay nagkaroon ng isang parada ang mga bata kung saan ay suot nila ang iba't ibang katutubong kasuotan. Si Ethan ay nagdamit ng Kasuotang Muslim (ay sana tama ang Tagalog ko!). Narito ang mga larawan ng naturang pagdiriwang.

Pagkatapos ng parada ay isa isang ipinakita ng bawat klase ang kanilang inihandang sayaw o kaya naman ay kanta. Ang klase nila Ethan ay hinati sa dalawa. Ang unang grupo kung saan kabilang si Ethan ay sumayaw ng Cariñosa.

Tuwang tuwa ako habang pinagmamasdan si Ethan na sumasayaw! Naikwento nga sa akin ni Teacher Pie na si Ethan ang ginagawa niyang halimbawa sa mga kaklase nitong lalaki upang sundin kapag sila ay nag-eensayong sumayaw!

Ngayon ang huling araw ng Agosto at katapusan na ng Buwan ng Wika. Sana'y kahit lamang sa paggamit at pagkilala sa ating wika ay lubos nating maintindihan ang kahalagahan ng pagkakaroon nito.

Salamat sa pagbabasa. Kailangan ko na ng panyo at dumudugo na ilong ko! : D

-Pia

Idol Ko Si Dad

2010-08-22T13:14:00.002+08:00

It's no wonder Ethan idolizes his dad a lot! He pretends to be a photographer and pretends to be the "boss" whenever he goes to check our small biz, he loves to build like his dad, they share the same interests on most of things except for dancing hehehe.

These pictures were taken last Father's Day after dinner at Antonio's Grill.

materials used: cardstock - Bazzill; patterned papers - Bella Boulevard and Prima; letter sticker - Prima; chipboard - Bella Blvd.,brad - Chatterbox; pen - Uniball Signo

Repertory Philippine's Sleeping Beauty

2010-08-16T18:53:00.002+08:00

The whole Rosemont and Ridgefield School community watched "Sleeping Beauty" at the Onstage Theater in Greenbelt last Aug. 13. It was free seating so we made sure we were early at the venue. We were lucky to find seats at the first row of the right orchestra. Ethan once again had a very good view of the play.

We enjoyed the show and had fun doing the charades with the "fairies". We like Trollerina and the Fawn - both are interesting characters and the actors who played were great! Trollerina was played by a male and boy was he really deserving of the audience's applaud! We love watching stage plays - far better than movies because you get to be "part" of it.

Here are some of the pictures we took right after the play when all of the characters went out of the stage again to meet the students/audience.

The Fawn with the Fairy, Minerva

The King and The Queen

The Prince

The Herald

Trollerina

In case you are looking for Sleeping Beauty, it was no surprise for me that Ethan didn't bother come to her hehehe. It's not because she was not good, but maybe because Ethan doesn't find a lead character fascinating at all : D Last year, when we watched Jack and the Beanstalk, Ethan didn't like "Jack" but wants a picture taken with the "Giant"!

Next week, Ethan will be celebrating the National Language Month in their school. He will not be wearing his Barong Tagalog for a change. He has worn a Barong tagalog for 2 consecutive years already hehehe. Perhaps for his last preschool year he can wear something our brothers from Mindanao are wearing! Oh we're so excited!

-Pia

We'll Be Home Soon

2010-08-14T00:01:00.000+08:00

I have kept a flyer of our condominium unit and told myself that I will scrap about it someday. I cut the condo unit's floor plan and the facade of the building and used them as the main pictures of my layout.

I made this layout using The Color Room Palette #18. So far, I find this color palette challenging. I ended up bringing out all of my papers and embellishments to look for the colors of this palette! I actually meant, every paper and embellishment that I have, including those that are almost forgotten hehehe! I was able to breathe after I finished the layout!

I used K&Co., Daisy Bucket, Websters, Tinkering Ink, Bella Blvd. and Scrapworks papers; Bazzill cardstock; embellishments - Chatterbox, Fancy Pants felt shapes, 7 Gypsies, K&Co., Daisy Bucket rub ons; letters - American Crafts, Jillibean Soup; pen - Zig

-Pia

Poser Boy

2010-08-12T18:34:00.002+08:00

Sharing another layout using Fancy Pants Like Father, Like Son. This is Ethan before he started schooling, he was only 3 years old then. These pictures make me smile and remember Ethan's chubby cheeks.

I'm happy that he's very confident about himself and doesn't mind posing for the camera. I didn't teach him how, he's such a natural!

The sketch was inspired by The Color Room Palette #15 (Sketch).

materials used: Fancy Pants Like Father, Like Son collection kit,American Crafts letter stickers, buttons, Uniball pen

"Quickies"

2010-08-07T22:16:00.005+08:00

Just sharing some "quickie" and simple layouts! I used lots of white space - such a breather for all those super duper detailed and "chaotic" layouts of mine.

Ethan's favorites at age 4 include: eating lumpiang shanghai, Jollibee hotdog classic sandwhich (he eats the cheese and the mustard before the hotdog!), Frutos candies, rice in a box or yang chow fried rice, chocolate sundae/ice cream, doughnuts, Kellog's Frosties and his all time favorite Fuji apples (he needs to eat it everyday); anything related to outer space, his cars and city toys; Little Einsteins, Mickey Mouse Clubhouse and Go Diego Go.

materials used: Sassafras Lass pps and chipboard stickers, Lime Rickey pp, Autumn Leaves rub ons, Uniball pen

Here's Ethan with his grandparents (my side) during the Grandparents' Day at Rosemont. He's such a lucky boy because he has both of his grandparents (on my and Jeff's side of the family) who loves him very dearly. He's the first "apo" just like me and Jeff that's why he's enjoying all the attention and the love right now.

materials used: Lily Bee and Prima pps, Jillibean Soup pp, Bazzill cs, American Crafts Tickers, Daisy Bucket rub ons, Prima flowers, Uniball pen

That's it for now, I'm quite in a hurry. Till the next post.

For Daddy and Me!

2010-08-05T18:38:00.003+08:00

Here are two of my recent layouts.

Last May, I was lucky enough to win another contest from Fancy Pants. My prize includes their 2 collections - Wishful Thinking and Like Father, Like Son. This is just one of the many layouts yet to come from these kits!

These photos were taken at Lake View Hotel in Tagaytay. I love these pictures - rare occasions where Jeff and Ethan had really good photos!

materials used: Fancy Pants Like Father, Like Son, Stampers Anonymous, Making Memories paint, Uniball pen

materials used: Jillibean Soup (Chicken Noodle Collection) , October Afternoon (Farm Fresh), Shabby Green Door (Farmer's Market) , American Crafts letter stickers, Making Memories letter stickers, Shabby Green Door Baker's twine, buttons, Uniball pen

This layout is for Lasting Impression. What I love about this layout is that all the three line of papers used in this layout have "farm themed patterns" and they scream PERFECT for these "barn pictures"! The photos were taken during Mother's Day celebration at Ethan's school. He was more excited than I am because the affair was held in Fun Ranch - perhaps one of the best places for him.

-Pia

Ethan's Insect Report

2010-08-01T20:22:00.003+08:00

Last Friday, July 30, Ethan presented his insect report infront of the class. The report is about the heaviest and largest insect on Earth which is the goliath beetle. I could have wished for beetles that we have here in the Philippines so it could have been easier to bring it on class, perhaps the uwang (rhinoceros beetle) or the salaginto (golden tortoise beetle) or the salagubang. But no, it was the goliath beetle which could only be found in Africa. We were contented to print a picture of this beetle in its' actual size so Ethan's classmates can have an idea how it looks and how big it is (as big as the palm of their hands!).

Ethan was quite shy when he started with his report. His voice was a little lower than the way we practiced it at home. But I can see he was confident and that he knew what he's talking about. He read most of his report but he did it so well that some parents who were also watching were impressed of his reading skills. They were also impressed with the slide show - credit goes to my ever artistic hubby who makes the best slide shows and other audio visual presentations since college!

Ethan's teachers and classmates were also pleased with the insects we shared with the class - ladybugs, stink bugs, praying mantis, grasshoppers, dragonflies, a salagubang and a firefly which both unfortunately died : ( It made me more thankful that we live in Cavite where insects are still abundant.

It was an enjoyable and learning experience for the whole family. Everybody contributed to the report. Jeff did the slide show, I did the research, my maid as well as my staff helped in gathering of the insects. Even my mom's co-teacher sent a praying mantis and salagubang from her garden in Pampanga!

We left the insects with the class because his teachers wanted to show them to the morning class on Monday. I fervently pray they are still alive by then. I broke my promise to these insects that I will free them as soon as Ethan's done with his report. Yup, you read it right, I talked to them because I fear they'll get back on me one way or another hehehe.

I love this report activity. It made the children more confident to speak infront of the class. It's a good parent-child bonding activity and it rekindled the love to collect insects again - I mean for me and Jeff! It was a lot of fun to collect bugs with your child, isn't? The parents present during the report also learned from the kids as each child presented his/her report.

I'm such a proud mom to Ethan! Great job, my baby!

On another note, I'd like to welcome this month with my layout published at Scrapstreet ezine. My layout, Fave Hobby is featured on the article, "Little Artists". The article is about incorporating and preserving our children's artworks. You can view the full article here. My other Filipina friends are also featured in this issue. You may view Iris' layout here, Janis' LO here, LG's LO here, and Donna's card here. It's always nice to see Filpina talent featured in various scrapbook sites.

-Pia

I'm a Tea Lady!

2010-07-28T21:36:00.000+08:00

I'm so excited to share with you that ...

Afternoon Tea Society is a new monthly kit club that will launch in September - the kits will be aimed at Scrapbookers, Card makers and Altered Artists with lots of fab goodies, some completely exclusive!

The kit club is based in the UK and all of the kits will have a traditionally quaint and British feel to them.

Thanks for another wonderful opportunity to design layouts and share my works! I'm happy to be working soon with the other "Tea Ladies" - Sarah, Amanda, Renee, and Mette.

-Pia

Back to BasicGrey

2010-07-25T17:16:00.003+08:00

I have always loved BasicGrey. I guess most of us do. This is why I'm very happy that I've been playing with the new collections, Kioshi, Origins and Sugar Rush lately. From the three, my fave is Sugar Rush. I love the colors pink, red, periwinkle blue, orange and gray!

Here are some of my new layouts using BasicGrey Sugar Rush, Kioshi and Porcelain. Making girl layouts from time to time is a real treat for me.

This is my friend Arlene at her brother's wedding day. What I love about this layout: the punched butterflies, and the stickers from the kit which are very easy to use.

This is my god daughter, Anika. She's very sassy and stylish just like her mom! What I Love about this layout: the different flowers used - paper, cloth, stickers and the bird cage from Porcelain kit

This is my favorite layout among the three. It makes me want to wish I have four kids too hehehe. It's just priceless to see pictures of your children in one layout, right? I kept this layout very simple because I want the pictures to stand out.

As you may have noticed I do post layouts here at my blog that are for friends and clients (with permission from my clients, of course). I do that from time to time. If you are interested to have some of your photos scrapbooked, you may send me an email and we can discuss that further. I can also teach basic scrapbooking, (one on one or group) within the South area (in some areas of Cavite, Alabang, Paranaque or Las Piñas). Please note however that I only accept traditional scrapbooking. Pictures to be scrapped are to be delivered to me and the output/layouts are for pick only (Alabang area).

Thanks so much for dropping by!

-Pia

Cosmo Cricket

2010-07-21T11:28:00.002+08:00

I recently had the chance to make layouts using Cosmo Cricket Earth Love and The Boyfriend. These two are my recent favorites from Cosmo. I love the hues of these lines - brown, green, red, yellow and a little of blue. The colors are perfect for boy layouts. Thanks to my friend Arlene for sharing her stuff with me.

What I love about this layout:

- the mixture of sepia, black and white and color photos in one layout;
- the Borders pp (the patterned paper with multiple choice) - it fits the pictures perfectly;
- the series of photos and Joaqui's different faces;
- the simplicity of the background paper and the minimal use of embellishments

What I love about this layout:

- the handwritten letter I wrote for Jeff's birthday - it was an intention to write in cursive too, it has been awhile since I last did that;
- the mini flags/banners I cut each piece, inked, curled and top with buttons;
- the hues of the papers - brown, peach and green - very earthly indeed!

- the unusual combination of red and green for a birthday layout
- I used one patterned paper from Material Girl (the base pp) and the rest from Earth Love and The Boyfriend. I love the result of the combination of the three lines.

If there's one thing I regret about this layout is that the only photo I had of Jeff when he was blowing the candle was the one I took using a cell phone camera. But since it's the memory that truly matters, I think I'll give in to that blurred picture.

-Pia

Ethan's Love for Drawing

2010-07-14T20:16:00.050+08:00

When I was a kid, I love to draw. Since my mom is a teacher, she used to own small blackboards which she usually brings at home (imagine that!). I remember sketching in my notebooks and drawing on my mom's blackboards too! I remember drawing people and houses while our neighbors watch. I was a show off back then : D I love to color too and I'm super O.C. when it comes to matching colors.

But Ethan is way talented than me; he has a knack for drawing! I love that Ethan loves the same hobby that I do, only, he is far better than me or even his dad.

Please allow me to be a stage mom again. I'd like to share with you some of his works.

Ethan loves to draw robots.

I bought Ethan an HB graphite pencil and he told me it's a cool pencil!

Ethan also loves to draw spaceships, rocket ships or anything related to outer space!

I promise Ethan that I will put all of his works in a book or maybe books someday. I guess trying to take photographs of them is a good start.

On a final note, I'll share with a layout I made for a friend.

materials used: Fancy Pants Kraft pps, Daisy Designs, American Crafts Thickers

I made two more layouts for my boys and hopefully I can come up with a journaling so I can post them soon.

-Pia

Kid @ Heart

2010-07-06T19:49:00.000+08:00

I admit it I'm very much a kid at heart! I love almost everything kids love ... chocolates (although I prefer the dark variety), playing in the rain (must do when we finally move to a new community) and ice cream! Well, who doesn't?

Here's a layout I made last week about my all time favorite ... ice cream!

The photos were taken using a cell phone camera.

title: Kid @ Heart
materials used: BasicGrey, Fancy Pants (banners) pps, Bazzill scalloped cs, Fancy Pants felt shapes, Prima journaling blocks, Prima alphas, Jillibean (@),Uniball pen

-Pia

Tough Guy

2010-07-03T13:36:00.011+08:00

Here's Ethan trying his hands (and feet!) on one of the new attractions of Manila Zoo - wall climbing! These photos were taken last March when Ethan was brought by his grandparents at the zoo. I remember going to the zoo when we were kids to see animals but now times have changed and the zoo is not just a place to see animals but a place for adventure too for our little ones.

My mom texted me that Ethan was the one who persisted to try wall climbing. I must admit this kid is really gutsy. But maybe when he was already about climb, he felt butterflies in his tummy that he told my mom that he can't do it. Hehehe, so long guts! But wait, maybe he also thought he'd be a loser to quit that easily so he tried again. And guess what? He managed to go up not just once but several times too!

Take a look at this layout about his adventure. I only wish I was there when he did this the first time.

For a lengthy journaling, I decided to use the tag I made during my Scrapjam class last year (?)

The focal photo was originally 5"x7". It was a souvenir photo taken by the zoo photographer. Even though it was quite big for the page, I wanted to use it. It'll be a waste not to (despite of the poor quality). I printed some supporting photos that my dad were able to capture using his cellphone camera. I managed to pick atleast 3 best shots and squeezed them all together with the 5x7 picture in one layout.

It may look complicated at first but it's actually not. I made my life easier by only picking two patterned papers from BasicGrey Origins (the background and the brown matting). I already brought out all the embellishments that "I might use" - metal, raffia, buttons, rub ons, stickers, ink and paint that compliment the colors of my photos. I was able to use most of my stuff that have been buried for some time now hehehe.

title: Tough Guy

materials used: BasicGrey and Fancy Pants pps, Fancy Pants sticker, Making Memories paint, Tim Holtz stamp, Versamark stamp ink, Daisy Bucket rub ons, Uniball pen

Layouts made:

Project 52: 29 layouts (including two spread LOs)
My Parent's Album: 4 LOs
Commissioned Work/Client: 8 LOs

-Pia

Play Nice

2010-06-30T23:24:00.002+08:00

... those are my words whenever Ethan will play with other kids or with his toys. "Share your toys" is another famous line of me and Jeff. Sometimes, Ethan obeys, other times, I had to keep on reiterating so he will remember hehehe.

This layout was super quick to make. I think it was made less than 40 minutes.

title: Play Nice

materials used: Sassafras Lass, Studio Calico, Fancy Pants, Prima pps, Tattered Angels mist, Daisy Bucket rub ons, buttons, Zig pen

-Pia

"Sleeping Feet" at Two Peas Today!

2010-06-29T20:36:00.000+08:00

This put a smile on my face ...

Thanks Two Peas!

Then and Now

2010-06-29T02:36:00.003+08:00

Here are two recent layouts I made for Ethan.

The first one is a photo taken when Ethan was 3 months old. I still have lots of baby photos that needed to be scrapped before Ethan finally turns 7 next year, huh! Anyway, since the photo is quite old, I had a hard time recalling how my son was when he was still a baby. Good thing, I have a diary that I 've kept with me through these years. I found a journal entry the same month the photo was taken so I took an excerpt from the said entry. One of my mistakes in scrapping is that it took me a looong time to finally scrap Ethan's baby photos. Back then, I was afraid I wouldn't be do good in scrapping those precious moments because I have only started scrapbooking. I realized I was wrong about that. Now, I am trying so hard to scrap both his old and new photos before most of the memories slip my mind. It also helps to keep writing on this blog for future references.

The embellishments of this layout are layers of mists, stamps, rub ons and die cuts. I'm trying a different approach here by using colors that I don't usually use. I'm also putting out most of my stamps so I get to use them in my layouts. Sometimes, I succeed and feel good about the results of my experiments. Sometimes, I would realize I would never do it again hehehe. In this layout, I liked the idea of layering the stamps, rub ons and mists but I'm not so sure about the mix of colors.

title: Enjoy the Everyday

materials used: Crate, BasicGrey (birdcage) and Fancy Pants (fuschia pink and base) pps, Daisy Bucket stamps and rub ons, 7 Gypsies clock and chipboard sticker, WRMK transparency frame, Tattered Angels mists, Uniball pen, Versamark ink stamp, buttons

My 2nd layout is my latest favorite among my works! I love this photo of Ethan taken last March of this year. The socks he was wearing are actually mine. I use that at night when I feel too cold. And though they are mine, Ethan loves to borrow them, perhaps because of the colors and the way it fits even to his toes. Jeff and I were laughing at Ethan when he feel asleep - his feet on top of a pillow and his arms folded at the back. He's so cute!!!

Do you still have lots of those felt shapes like I do? Bring them all out and start using them hehehe!

Ethan suggested I place the birds at the side. Daddy doesn't agree though! : )

title: Sleeping Feet

materials used: Prima, BasicGrey, K and Co. pps, Bazzill cs, Tattered Angels mist, Fancy Pants felt shapes, Daisy Bucket rub ons, buttons, Chatterbox journaling card, Jillibean Soup alphas, American Crafts Thickers, Uniball pen

Thanks for coming back to check out my layouts!

-Pia

Layouts for Daddy

2010-06-27T01:50:00.007+08:00

Here are the two layouts I made for Jeff for Father's Day.

The photos were taken during our one day stay in Tagaytay. We made the most of it by swimming in the pool as soon as we checked in our hotel. After an hour, we left the hotel and went to Tagaytay Picnic Grove for the much awaited kite flying that Jeff promised Ethan. For the most of our stay, I was the photographer taking as many pictures of my boys. Though I wish I'm good as Jeff.

I'm so glad I bought these papers from Bella Boulevard. Thanks to April too for showing me these adorable chipboard. She's right about the chipboard - they're cute and easy to use. Aside from Bella Boulevard, I also used the kite from Fancy Pants - I'm glad I saved it from my previous use. The border, rainbow, sun and the yellow mat are from Prima while the green grass is from Cosmo Cricket. By the way, these papers are available locally at Lasting Impression.

title: World's Best Dad
materials used: Bella Boulevard, Prima, Cosmo Cricket and Fancy Pants papers, Bella Boulevard chipboard, Uniball pen, Bazzill kraft cardstock

For my next layout, I layered stamps, mists and rub ons for the background. I love that I get to use my Daisy Bucket kite rub on that I've had for quite some time already.

I have rediscovered misting again and I can't get enough of it! My next three layouts all have mists in their backgrounds : )

I kept this layout simple by using only few pieces of patterned papers from BasicGrey Kioshi. I love the subtle colors of this line ... it gives a serene and calm feeling perfect for this fun day of my boys. These colors are not my usual palette but it was worth the try!

By the way, BasicGrey Kioshi is available locally at My Little Attic. I'm glad that I was the first who got these papers because when I visited Nette, the BG papers have just arrived! Weee!!!

materials used: BasicGrey Kioshi and Bella Boulevard (bird house) patterned papers, Daisy Bucket rub ons, Tattered Angels Mist, Tim Holtz stamp, Clearsnap chalk ink and Versamark stamp ink, Zig pen

Yesterday, I had to organize my patterned papers again. I have thrown some scraps and decided to part ways to my old stash - some weren't even touched and some are scraps but will come a long way if I just give it to other people who will be able to use it rather than letting it gather dust in my rack. I 'm so happy when I saw that I have few papers again! I'm using more scraps now than ever now ... another way to lessen my papers.

Thanks for dropping by my blog again! More projects using mists in the coming days!

-Pia

Of Father's Day and First Day of School

2010-06-24T03:05:00.004+08:00

Helllo there! I'm back after almost a month of not posting. I'm sorry for that. There have been so many things that took place this month.

We went to Boaracy for our annual summer vacation together with my inlaws. We are truly blessed that we are able to enjoy the beach every summer! Thanks to my generous inlaws for that. This summer vacation must be the most memorable to date because it was the most adventurous of all our vacations making Ethan sooooo happy and wouldn't want to go back home. I've shared some pictures in my facebook account already. You may want to check them. They're here, here, here and here : )

Last Sunday, June 20, we celebrated Father's Day in Tagaytay. We heard mass first then we had dinner at Antonio's Grill. We weren't truly satisfied with the food we have ordered and we felt we should have eaten at good old Leslie's or Pancake House instead. Anyway, we headed towards Starbucks for some dessert and frappucino after our dinner. It was just a simple celebration. I made layouts for Jeff too to honor him on his special day, which I will post soon.

Jeff may have flaws. He may not know where Ethan's clothes are even though they have been in the same cabinet for almost 6 years; he may have not breastfed his son (of course hehehe) and he may be quite grumpy at times but I will be forever grateful to God for giving Ethan the best dad there could ever be ...

On June 22, Tuesday, it was Ethan's first day in Senior Kinder. This is his last schoolyear in Rosemont. I can't believe it has been 3 years already since my baby first went to school. I remember being so afraid that we will not survive his first day in Nursery. Now, I see a more independent and confident Ethan. I know that my son (not because he is my son ha) will go places when he grows up.

On a scrappy note, I meant scrapbook related, I finished 4 layouts for this month! Wohoo for me! Although I think I still need some catching up to do with all my backlogs. Anyway, I also finished one layout for my mom and dad's album and 5 layouts for a client. I feel good but quite guilty that I'm far behind business work this time. I need to work some more ...

Hope you'll check back again for my layouts! Thanks!

You're My Sunshine After the Rain

2010-05-29T01:44:00.007+08:00

It's probably time to get the umbrella, raincoats and rainboots out! For the past days, it has been raining real hard. It's not that it's weird since we're approaching June in a matter of days. It's just that it's still too hot before and after it rains. Not to mention we haven't been on a real vacation yet.

Anyway, since it has been raining. Here's a layout I made using Prima-Umbrella Collection.I love the bright colors of this line. I also love those cute crocodiles too.

Aside from Prima, I also used scraps from different lines having the same hues. There's just too much colors on this layout - I totally enjoyed the creative process. Perhaps my current favorite color would be yellow. But I also noticed I've used too much of that color on my recent works. Hmmm....maybe I should give that color a rest for awhile.

Please allow me to indulge. Even though this are just very small accomplishments for the year, it means a lot to me already. An update on my Project 52: I finished 22 layouts already, one of which won at the Fancy Pants NSD Challenge and three are going to get published! Wohoooo!

Now for some, non-scrapbook related.

Ethan will soon be in Senior Kinder, his last schoolyear at Rosemont as a preschooler. As of this time, he's already enrolled, his uniforms, shoes and school supplies are already prepared. I just want to enjoy the rest of the vacation thus I prepared early. The little boy has been enjoying his vacation - full time. When I say 'full time', I meant no-summer-workshop for him. I never get to mention on my posts that my-little-actor went to Trumpets Playshop from April to 2nd week of May. The workshop concluded in a showcase entitled, "The Best Toys". I'm a proud mom when Ethan performed on stage for the first time. Indeed, at a young age of 5, he has experienced something his dad and I experienced when we were already in college. Anyway, we hope that his love for the theater will continue until he's a grown up.

We're off to the beach next week. Last hurrah? Yup, we'll just pray it won't rain. Oh sunshine ... I need you now!

Media Noche '08

2010-05-26T18:06:00.003+08:00

click the image for a larger view

Finally I was able to scrap our New Year's Eve pictures back in 2008! This is my 2nd spread layout for the year. I have to tell you spreads are really tough and very challenging (atleast for me)!

What I really like about this layout is the clothes line I made. I placed a baker's twine on the top right side of the page and 'hung' the mittens and caps. To finish the clothes line, I added birds! I find this really cute!

For the journaling, I divided it into three parts: first, I wrote about the feast that we've had; second, I wrote who celebrated New Year's Eve with us and lastly, I wrote what was unforgettable during our celebration.

materials used: Cosmo Cricket, Chatterbox, We 'R Memory Keepers pps, America Crafts Thickers, Zig pen.

TFL!

Little Handprint

2010-05-22T14:17:00.000+08:00

Ethan made this in school for Mother's Day (which they usually celebrate on September coinciding with Mama Mary's birthday). The handprint goes with a short poem which I also included in the layout.

materials used: Scenic Route (I'm missing this manufacturer!), Studio Calico (scallop), Creative Imaginations (frog), American Crafts and Pink Paislee letters, Daisy Bucket rub on, Zig pen

-Pia

Taking Turns

2010-05-18T18:13:00.001+08:00

Finally, I was able to make a summer layout!

These photos were taken during Ethan's swimming lessons from last year's summer.

Jeff overheard this conversation during one of the sessions. Here's how the conversation between Ethan and his coach went:

Coach: Ethan, dip your face in the pool.

Ethan: No, you first : )

Coach: No, you first then I'll count.

Ethan: No, you first then I'll count : )

Coach: Ok ...

So the coach agreed ...

Ethan (counting very very slowly): 1 ...... 2 ...... 3...... 4....... 5

Don't worry the coach is still alive as of this time hehehe.

Title: Taking Turns

materials used: Bazzill cardstock, Cosmo Cricket pps, Sassafras Lass card, Chatterbox epoxy buttons, Clearsnap ink, buttons, Dasiy Bucket rub on, American Crafts letters, Zig pen

TFL!

-Pia

Scooter Fun

2010-05-08T15:06:00.001+08:00

It's my first time to join a contest this year. I'm so happy to finish this one in the nick of time. Here's my entry for the Fancy Pants NSD Challenge.

I used three lines from Fancy Pants to make this project - Rough and Tough, Summer Soiree and Trick or Treat. I just love how versatile these papers that it can be used in a variety of themes.

I have one problem though, when I uploaded my layout at the gallery, I'm surprised to see that my layout was posted on May 8. The deadline is on May 7, 12mn MST. I made sure I uploaded it on time by referring on this site. I can't seem to figure out what went wrong. Anyway, I hope my layout can still be counted.

-Pia

Shabby Green Door

2010-05-02T00:11:00.000+08:00

I'm not really a fan of shabby chic or vintage papers but this one is an exemption. Just take a look ...

I used Shabby Green Door Farmer's Market - Blue Ribbon Recipe, Strawberry Jam, and Sweet Peas papers, Spread Joy sticker label and Cherry Twist (red baker's twine). I added the yellow base paper from My Little Yellow Bicycle, kraft cardstock, Fancy Pants felt shapes, and of course, buttons. The letters are from American Crafts and Prima (yellow Es).

I'm lovin' these everyday pictures taken by our cellphone cameras and I love how this layout turned out!

Shabby Green Door is available at Lasting Impression.

-Pia

Lakbayan: How much of the Philippines have you visited?

2010-05-01T15:18:00.004+08:00

I found this site a year ago and wanted to know how Jeff and I rate. So, we both took the test. We were both laughing when we found out that even though we've been to a number of places in our country, it's not enough to say that we know our country too well.

Here's Jeff's map:

My Lakbayan grade is C+!

How much of the Philippines have you visited? Find out at Lakbayan!

Created by Eugene Villar.

Here's mine:

My Lakbayan grade is C!

How much of the Philippines have you visited? Find out at Lakbayan!

Created by Eugene Villar.

I've lived in Bocaue, Bulacan when I was a kid. Jeff and I have lived most of our lifetime in Metro Manila. When we got married, we settled in Cavite and we've been here for 7 years already. We've both been to the northenmost tip of the Philippines which is Batanes (Batan and Sabtang Islands) and stayed there for 2 weeks - you could say we fell in love with that place. Boracay is an all time favorite destination for we go there almost every year. Jeff frequents Cebu, Davao and Bacolod because of work. He's even luckier than I am because he stayed from more than a week at Babuyan Islands way back. Yet it seems that we still have a looong way to go.

Jeff and I have always been proud of our beautiful country with it's very beautiful places to visit and the very hospitable Filipinos. If we probably have all the money in the world and the luxury of time, we'll probably be exploring our 7,107 islands. But even though that it's not our case, there's no stopping us to explore. Hopefully two to three years from now our grades will improve : )

How about you? How much of the Philippines have you visited? Why not take the test to find out.

The Color Room Palette #3

2010-04-29T16:42:00.003+08:00

I found The Color Room recently through my friend, Iris. I've always loved different color palettes/combinations so I gave the color palette this week a try.

Here's the palette and my take:

Photography by Meng Lim

materials used: Making Memories, Scenic Route, We 'R Memory Keepers, BasicGrey papers; buttons; Scenic Route chipboard, American Crafts felt flowers, Zig pen

I wanted this layout to look whimsical so instead of using the felt flowers as 'flowers', I decided to make them as 'clouds'. Add to the whimsy feel, I placed the elephants on top of the tree branches and the clouds. I thought that it'll be fun to use the animals in a different way.

This one was just a "quickie" layout but I love it!

TFL!

-Pia

The Loot

2010-04-20T23:34:00.002+08:00

materials used: Fancy Pants Rough and Tough, Sassafras Lass - Vintage Yummy and Monstrosity, 7 Gypsies word stickers, mesh, buttons, googly eyes, Zig pen

I used non-Halloween themed papers for this layout. I noticed that the base paper matches the racer costume of Ethan.

Since the puzzle paper (Sassafras Lass - Pleasantly Puzzled) looks busy, my friend, Iris suggested that I cut the paper. Actually, I don't know what she meant exactly but I proceeded to cutting, anyway. After cutting a few pieces later, I randomly positioned the paper on my base paper and what do you know ... I love how it turned out! Thanks too to Iris for the mesh. Scrapping side by side with the Master has always been an experience ... Iris can always come up with so many ideas running in her mind!

An update on my Project 52, I already created 14 layouts todate! Project 52, I believe is the best option for me to finish 52 layouts - something that is realistic and fits our lifestyle.

-Pia

Bye House!

2010-04-12T19:03:00.005+08:00

These were the exact words of Ethan when we left our house last year. It was such a bittersweet moment for us - we longed for this yet when we were leaving, it was sadder than I thought and was quite difficult. The house is owned by my in laws and was our home for almost 6 years. It has beautiful memories we would never forget - many of them are the firsts in our lives. Our first Christmas together, our first new born, our first new year, etc. I remember that we are the ones who chose the color of the house when my in laws wanted it repainted. The colors reflect our colorful personality. People from our subdivision would kid about our house as "bahay ni Kuya" from the Pinoy Big Brother show.

For this layout, I drew the clouds and used them as my journaling spots. I kept the embellishments into a minimum since the colors of the photos are already too loud. I love that the papers I used match the colors of the house. The base paper is from Fancy Pants - it's actually a summer themed paper. The blue paper is from BasicGrey Lime Rickey. I love this line, it resembles one of my all time favorite Color Me Silly Collection also from BG. The polka dots, butterfly and the flowers are from Tinkering Ink - another line of paper known for its bold designs and loud colors.

Thanks for looking!

-Pia

Two Busy Feet

2010-04-08T00:00:00.005+08:00

These cute footprints of Ethan are one of my precious mementos of his toddlerhood. I remember making this a week before we went to Boracay (which was when the photo on the layout was taken). I was feeling quite guilty for not marking the paper with a date though. After almost 3 years, I was able to finally make a layout about these cute feet. The prints have a partner - cute hand prints. I know what to do about it, I just couldn't find the right photos to go with it : )

The materials are courtesy of my good friend, Iris (Thanks sis!). The papers are too adorable and are a perfect match to the theme of my layout. Now, I'm more inspired to scrap Ethan's baby pictures (I still have lots and lots of them LOL!)

materials used: My Little Yellow Bicycle - Sharon Ann Baby Safari Collection, Sassafras Lass (arrow), Ki Memories border sticker, American Crafts Thickers and letter stickers, Fancy Pants pompoms, Daisy Bucket rub ons

Journaling: At age 2 1/2, your two busy feet have walked through several places already. You've been to Subic once, Boracay thrice, Hongkong once and Singapore once. Keep on exploring two busy feet!

Lent (Pinoy Style)

2010-04-05T20:40:00.085+08:00

Spending Good Friday and Black Saturday at home facing loads of paper works for the annual ITR, financial documents and quarterly tax for the 1st quarter of this year was worst as I expected. Truly, I felt I was having my "penitensya" racking my brain to understand these documents since I don't have any background on these things! Makes me think that when I'm already rich and can afford office staff, I will make sure I will hire a book keeper to do all these stuff for me hehehe.

On the otherhand, our Maundy Thursday was spent doing Visita Iglesia. Visita Iglesia, a Catholic tradition which means church visit has been a tradition of our family since I was pregnant with Ethan. Coming all the way from Cavite, we decided to start our visit at the Shrine of Jesus, The Way, The Truth and The Life (church near Mall of Asia). This was followed by St. Joseph Parish, Sta. Monica, Immaculate Conception Parish, Espiritu Santo, Santisimo Rosario Parish (UST). We had a detour and decided to skip Minor Basilica of St. Lorenzo Ruiz (Binondo), Sto. Niño de Tondo, Sta. Cruz, Basilica of Nazarene (Quiapo), and Our Lady of Remedies (Malate Church) because of heavy traffic and difficulty in parking. We ended our visit at San Agustin and Minor Basilica of the Immaculate Conception (Manila Cathedral). We noticed that this year, more Filipinos joined in this Catholic tradition as compared from the previous years. At almost 11pm, traffic and parking was still a problem at the Manila Cathedral. Hmmm ... must be signs of the times?

I've always wanted to document our visits and was glad to have finally done that this Lent. Here are some of the pictures Jeff, I and Ethan took.

St. Joseph Church

Immaculate Conception Church

Espiritu Santo Parish

Santisimo Rosario (UST)

Manila Cathedral

San Agustin Church

It was an enriching experience again this year and I hope to preserve this family tradition even if Ethan is already a grown up.

I could have wanted to make atleast one layout for Easter but I was too tired and sleepy already that I took that day to rest. Anyway, I'm going to share a layout I made several weeks ago. The photo was taken right after Easter Egg Hunt last year.

materials used: Making Memories, Scenic Route and October Afternoon (cloud) pps, Daisy Bucket rub ons, American Crafts Thickers, buttons, Zig and Sakura pens, DMC embroidery floss

Come Easter Sunday, I went back to my mom's house to fetch Ethan. Ethan had spent two days of vacation at his lolo and lola's house. We were quite late for an outdoor egg hunt so we decided to do it indoor.

-Pia

A Work in Progress

2010-03-26T23:12:00.004+08:00

This year, I hope to create more ... to do things right ... to keep my life in balance ... I am a work in progress and I hope to come to the finish line, happy and contented with my small accomplishments.

As part of that "work in progress" theme, I decided that our blog of five years should finally have a new look. I found this blog template and I kinda like it right now. I'm currently updating and fine tuning the images content of our blog as well as updating links of our friends' blogs. I hope that you'll bear with us because I'm really not good with technicalities (HTML and other stuff aren't for me hehehe) and I'm only trying to squeeze this on our daily schedule which is always toxic.

Thanks for always dropping by our blog!

-Pia

1st Dentist Visit

2010-03-26T18:23:00.026+08:00

It was Ethan's first visit to the dentist and I must admit I was quite nervous it won't turn out good. Even though I told him several times about this visit, as soon as we've reached the hospital's lobby, he was already asking me why does he have to go to a hospital when he's not at all sick! I reminded him that this is a dentist visit and he needs his teeth cleaned and checked. When we reached the dentist's clinic, he saw Dra. Sheryl Borja, who is also a friend of ours and a mom of Ethan's classmate. Sheryl was wearing a white lab gown and immediately Ethan associated that with a doctor, I saw panic in his eyes and in his voice too! He asked his Tita Sheryl why was she wearing that. He's not used to seeing her Tita Sheryl in that attire. I was thinking that we're doomed. But I was all wrong ... just take a look at the photos.

It has been more than a year since I created a spread layout. It was a good exercise to keeping this layout simple and keeping the embellishments to a minimum : ) The photos were taken using a cell phone. I just don't have the guts to carry my SLR at the clinic. But I realized now that I wanted to bring it next time to take more good photos.

To make the face, I used my bookplates that I have hoarded and placed googly eyes and brads as ears. For the nose and mouth, I cut an "apostrophe" into two from my AC Thickers : )

materials used: Bazzill cs, Daisy Bucket Monster parade and Kaisercrafts papers, bookplates, buttons, Shabby Green Door baker's twine, American Crafts Thickers, googly eyes, Making Memories button brads

-Pia

Recycled

2010-03-15T21:08:00.004+08:00

Remember this layout I made two years ago? I initially tried a 6x12 format then but later on realized it wasn't workable for me. I wasn't able to buy a 6x12 album and so may 6x12 layouts were left inserted inside my 12x12 albums. They didn't fit well as expected.

When I saw these papers from Lily Bee, I found them to be a perfect match to my old layout. I realized that if I put my 6x12 layout on top of a 12x12 paper it'll make an instant 12x12 layout hehehe!

I just love it!

-Pia

Not So Good Photos

2010-03-01T18:51:00.010+08:00

I bet we all have those not-so-good-photos. I guess they are not so good in a sense that they are not technically good. Probably blurred, dark or too bright or poorly composed. For photography enthusiasts like me, I feel bad whenever a very memorable photo turns out a not-so-good one. I have so many of those, most were taken using my celfone camera which gives my photos poor quality. But because these photos have a meaningful memories, I wanted to scrap them.

I had photos from my celfone printed, without any photoshop manipulation or whatsoever. I realized these everyday photos of mine are true reflections of our lives - no photoshop needed and are good as they are : )

These photos are drawings of my son. I still have a handful of photos from my celfone showing his creations and I'd definitely scrap them soon!

These photos were taken inside the car and the morning of Valentine's Day. I love that these pictures were able to capture how Ethan looks after he wakes up! : D

I used Lily Bee papers for this project which are available (locally) at Lasting Impression.

The past weekend was a productive one for me. I made three layouts and "recycled" another one. The story behind that one on my next post ; )

Title: Fave Hobby
materials used: Lily Bee Three Little Birds - Double Dutch, Die Cut frame, Bazzill cardstock, buttons, Shabby Green Door baker's twine, American Crafts Thickers, Zig pen, Chatterbox chipboard, and Prima ribbon

Title: Donut Love
materials used: Lily Bee Three Little Birds - Faded Jeans, Three Little Birds, Die Cut Frame, Rub ons, buttons, Shabby Green Door baker's twine, American Crafts Thickers and cardstock, Fancy Pants pins, Sakura, Uniball Signo and Zig pens

-Pia

Just for Statistics Sake ...

2010-02-28T15:27:00.000+08:00

I actually didn't want to do this but I know I should. I didn't want to count how many layouts and projects I've made for the past two years because the numbers/results will only prove how unproductive I was for the past years.

Life has taken a full turn. As you all know the past years have been the worst in my scrapbooking life, I've been MIA for most of the scrapbook events, I have not scrapped as much, I've not been active in Scrapbooks Exchange and Pinoy Scrapbookers Forums, I have not been active in joining design teams and scrapbook contests and my list can go on. But one thing is for sure, I am still as scrapaholic as I am before. I haven't changed in terms of conceptualizing pages and layouts, even during sleep. I still spend my free time illustrating sketches and writing down my ideas for pages and journaling.

So just for statistics sake, I tried counting my layouts and projects. And here's what I found out. Note: I didn't count layouts/projects made for clients/friends/celebrities. I only counted layouts that I have done for myself.

2009

Layouts (12x12): 33
Projects (altered art, cards and other stuff): 6
Mini Album: 1 6x6 10 pages

2008

Layouts (12x12): 40
Layouts (6x12): 8
Projects (altered art, cards, and other stuff): 11

Todate, I have only made one layout. I have so many ideas and I'm determined to keep the number higher for this year. I'm aiming for 52 layouts assuming I can make one layout a week. Since I've only done 1 LO, I needed 6 more. I'm really hoping this year will be more productive.

-Pia

Nikki Sivils Day

2010-02-24T22:20:00.012+08:00

My good friend Ria invited us for a day of scrapping, eating and non stop chatting! It was so much fun to be able to scrap with my close friends again. It has been awhile since something like this happened. Everybody's present - Ria, April, Liza, Iris, Dinah, Ems, BJay, Kitkat and Arlene.

Feb. 20 was dubbed as Nikki Sivils Day for the Adobo Girls (this is what we have named ourselves after a day we brought different kinds of Adobo during a crop). Ria generously shared with us her Nikki Sivils papers and embellishments.

I made one Nikki Sivils LO that day. Although I had to add some more buttons when I got home and added Ethan's handwriting too! I initially named this layout, "Try" inspired from the Daisy Bucket rub on that I applied at the bottom of my LO but later on I changed my mind when I saw Ethan's handwriting. So now, the title is "I Can Do It!"

There was so much inspiration that I get to make another layout using three Valentine themed paper lines from BasicGrey (Sugar Rush), Fancy Pants (Vintage Valentine) ,Daisy Bucket (Loves Me, Loves Me Not) and a little from Nikki Sivils (Victoria Street). Papers and embellishments are from BG and FP while the rub ons are from DBD. The papers used in this project are available at Lasting Impression.

After one Nikki Sivils layout, I tried another one again but didn't get to finish it. I hope to finish and share it with you here soon.

Check this out to see layouts of my friends.

Can't Get Enough ...

2010-02-15T03:47:00.021+08:00

... of these adorable monsters. After using my Monstrosity papers from Lasting Impression, I couldn't resist making another one and mixing them with other paper lines too.

For this layout, I tried putting as much photos as I can to show how we celebrated Ethan's 5th Out of This World Birthday Party. I don't know if I did it right though. By the time, I positioned and glued all the photos and papers, I couldn't tell where to put my journaling. Perhaps next time I'll be more careful and plan first my journaling before I place all the other elements.

I love Ethan's smile in these pictures. It only shows how much he enjoyed his big day which we celebrated with only few of his friends and classmates.

This one is a monster overload. Can you recognize the paper lines to which these monsters are from? These adorable monsters are from October Afternoon, Sassafras Lass and Daisy Bucket!

The photos for this layout would look cluttered if printed in color so I thought that I needed to change them into BW. The photo's background is a little dull for these papers; Ethan and his friends' wore clothes that are unmatched too. I'm very OC with color and I'll try everything just to make everything color coordinated hehehe.

I'm happy to be sharing again my layouts. I hope to be productive this weekend and make atleast two layouts. Wish me luck!

-Pia

Happy Valentine's Day!

2010-02-15T02:37:00.007+08:00

Our Valentine's Day was pretty simple. We were at home the whole day watching Tagalog movies (mostly KC and Richard's ones, yup certified jologs ako!) while Jeff took a rest he badly needed. In the evening, we had dinner at Golden Bay Restaurant along Macapagal Boulevard. I knew we had to have Chinese food because incidentally this year's Valentine falls on a Chinese New Year as well hehehe. Connection? Wala naman masyado. We've been eyeing that resto for quite some time now and since traffic was so heavy along Macapagal Blvd. due to MOA's firework display, we simply thought it'll be better to take a turn to the nearest resto which happened to be Golden Bay.

We capped off the night with another dinner with my inlaws at Burgoo, MOA hehehe. We were so full, we hardly ate anything. But it was a fun night chatting with my inlaws. I also got three red roses from my SIL, Angel. Hay buti pa siya naalala ako : D

Ethan made greeting cards for all of us too. One, he did at school. Six others, he made at home with me. Ethan gave one to his lolo and lola (my parents). He also made two for his teachers and one for his mentor. Unfortunately I wasn't able to take photos of those before we gave them. Not that I'm Ethan's mom but I'm so proud of him because he draws and colors very well. I plan to make a book of all his drawings because I believe they are exceptional for his age!

Here are the cards:

Ethan copied the drawing from this old Fancy pants paper. The card is for my inlaws.

This one is made for Jeff. Ethan drew this using his stuff toy as an inspiration.

This one is for us. Ethan made this at school. I asked Ethan what happened to the colors. He said he was mixing different colors to come up with new ones. Hmmm ...

Inside the card, we were amused by what Ethan wrote:

He was asking for a Matchbox Pop Up hehehe!

Lastly, I want to share with you (FINALLY!) my first layout for 2010. Wohooo!!! I can't tell you how happy I am when I finished this days ago!

I combined two Valentine paper collections from Fancy Pants and BasicGrey (available at Lasting Impression).

Materials used: BasicGrey Sugar Rush - Gummy Bears, Jaw Breakers, Rush Runts, and Element Stickers; Fancy Pants Splendid; Shabby Green Door baker's twill;buttons; and Zig pen
Photography by Meng Lim

Happy Valentine's Day! Thanks and come back for more layouts from me!

-Pia

Still Alive ...

2010-01-23T00:06:00.005+08:00

I am back after a month of hiatus. I'd still say a Happy New Year to all! I've wanted to write something in my blog ever since December but they're not at all scrapbook related so I thought I'd rather not to. Besides, December was such a busy month. I didn't feel Christmas come ... it was just so fast. One day it was our 6th wedding anniversary (I don't even remember what happened) then it was my birthday, then it was Christmas and Jeff was sick and we all got stuck at home.

I know that I have been a very bad blogger. And I wish to write more often this year.

I feel blessed for 2009 yet I also feel that there are things that I wished we had done. Things I wished were settled and that we don't have to carry on for this year. Things just didn't turn out the way I thought it'll be. Looking back at my journal last year, I saw that I have written so many goals that I thought will come easy. Ok, I lied I knew it won't be easy but seeing that most of them didn't materialize, makes me feel really disappointed .. ok, I think the word must be frustrated.

For 2010, I'm doing it again. I'm writing down goals, I'm making them a reality each day ... I don't know if I'm on the right track but I just want to make it to the finish line feeling satisfied about myself. I don't know when was the last time I felt this.

I hope this year ...

... I can scrap more often. I feel so left out. I feel that I'm less creative. I wanted to sit, relax and just make layouts and feel good about it. I wanted to scrap for my family more often than for other people.

... we can finally plan for baby #2. I'm not at all getting younger. When I had Ethan, I wanted baby #2 maybe 2 to 3 years after him. But there were so many other things we needed to consider before we can say we are ready for baby#2 and so it just came out as a surprise that Ethan has just turned 5 last year!

... we can buy our dream house. I know that moving to a house may take awhile, I just want us to make a downpayment. It'll be a good start. I think.

... we can take a real family vacation. A vacation without cellphones, without any business calls, without anything on our minds but to rest and relax.

I have so many other personal goals, hopes and wishes for this year but I'd keep them to myself for now.

Thanks to all those who still reads my blog or those who drops by and still leaves messages even though it takes a lot of time before I can even publish it. Thanks to all those who still believes in my talent. If only you know how much I miss scrapbooking and my scrapping friends.

I'll be posting 2 layouts I made last year in a moment.

-Pia

The Countdown Begins

2009-12-03T14:09:00.010+08:00

... and I'm not even done with my countdown calendar yet hehehe! But we managed to put up the Christmas tree, the decorations (garlands, wreath and some Christmas stuffed toys, Christmas stockings, snow globes etc.) before December. So far, so good ... we are lovin' our house decors. Jeff and Ethan anticipates the Christmas lights every night and would even remind me if it's not lit! Perhaps I can make the calendar this weekend and have our Christmas photo shoot too.

As early as the 2nd week of November, Ethan already made his Christmas wish list and even wrote Santa all by himself! I'm a proud mom when he spelled the words without my help ... in fact, he doesn't want me to help him! I haven't photographed the list and the letter though because they were all written using a pencil. Perhaps, I can tell Ethan to trace it with colorful markers : )

Anyway, as I am writing this down, I'm sick with colds. It has been days that I've been feeling really tired but I won't listen to what my body is saying. There's so much to do the past weeks that I couldn't think of resting. (Even until now, I can see the clothes' hamper smiling at me with all those laundry and clothes to be ironed). I can go on with my to do list but that won't be Christmas related hehehe. So here I am, sniffing and a little dizzy but updating our blog.

I wanted to do the December Daily Journal by Ali Edwards but I know making the album isn't feasible at the moment. So I thought I'll just write down here my thoughts and other happenings as December unfolds. But I will not be writing each day of December, I figured out it's not that necessary. I will write as thoughts will come my way.

So for the first day of the month, I brought Ethan to his pedia. Not a good thing to start December though. Ethan has acute bronchitis and needs to take his meds - an antibiotic, a cough syrup (for asthmatics) and a cold syrup just in case he's having difficulties sleeping. I don't really like it when he has to take antibiotics because it's so hard to make him drink his meds! Ethan hates its taste ... who likes it, anyway?!

Anyway, after having him checked by his doctor, we thought of watching the movie, "A Christmas Carol". We've been anticipating a Christmas movie but I was quite disappointed after watching it. It's not that the movie was bad. But I realized it's not a movie for his age. It was quite scary for him. It was always dark, gloomy and scary (as the story needs to be). Several times I saw Ethan feeling restless. Near the end, Ethan can no longer contain himself and finally said, "When is the movie going to be finished?" I liked Charles Dickens' Christmas Carol and so as Jim Carrey but this movie is not for Ethan, definitely.

The next day (Dec.2), I sent Ethan to school. As expected, he wasn't in the mood as he was really feeling sleepy (as a result of his meds). When we arrived school, the students were practicing and dancing to different Christmas tunes but Ethan doesn't like to join them. That's unusual for him but I understand why. I left him and prayed he'll be okay in a little while. I know he will be because when I picked him up after his classes, he was full of energy again!

Here's my layout for Scrap the Boys' Challenge for this month:

Is your Boy a Grinch or an Angel?

I used Daisy Bucket Merry Wishes, Kaisercraft, and Sassafras North Pole papers; Chatterbox chipboard, Ki Memories epoxy stickers, American Crafts Thickers, Fancy Pants rub ons and buttons, snow flakes, Shabby Green Door Twists, Zig and Uniball Signo pens.

Unfortunately this is the last blog challenge. It was great working with the blog owner, Susan, as well as with the other DTs. I'll be missing Scrap the Boys for sure.

-Pia

We ELFed Ourselves (again)!!!

2009-11-12T00:41:00.006+08:00

Here's a family tradition we started last year. It was so much fun that we thought we'll be practicing new dance steps each year before Christmas hehehe ...

Send your own ElfYourself eCards

A Joyful Christmas to All!!!

-Jeff, Pia and Ethan

2009-11-12T00:00:00.000+08:00

Send your own ElfYourself eCards

Of Halloween and A Birthday ...

2009-11-11T02:52:00.012+08:00

It's that time of the year again. We are so excited about the holiday season because we are celebrating it on our own house for the very first time. As I put down all the Halloween decors, I'm starting to plan our Christmas decorations. Ethan has been telling me to make the countdown calendar as early as the first week of November as soon as I finished the countdown to Halloween! Anyway, I'm still thinking what to do with the Christmas calendar this time. The Halloween calendar was a hit to Ethan not to mention it was also an educational material. Since they are doing addition up to number 20 in school, the calendar was sort of a reminder of the numbers 1-20 (and even beyond that) and it was a way to teach subtraction too which they are taking up right now.

I started to put down the decorations from the wreath and I'm beginning to plan for the colors that I will use this year. I usually have a theme each year. I mean I have specific color combinations to use inside the house. Talk about OCness hehehe!

The other day, we bought our first ever Christmas tree and we are all so excited to put it up this weekend!

But before I start posting my Christmas projects for this year. Here are some photos I didn't get to post last month.

The Halloween wreath I made ...

Big ribbon was made from crepe paper. Purple and orange balls were tied with Daisy Bucket paper ribbons. Skeletons, bats, skull, spiders are plastic toys from SM. The pirates, the zombie and monster are finger puppets ; D

... and the treat bags I made for Ethan's classmates for Trick or Treat:

I filled the pumpkins (I bought them from Divisoria) with lollipops and chocolates. I wrapped Mentos candies, Kitkat bars and Choconut with Halloween themed patterned papers (mostly scraps). I placed all the goodies inside a plastic bag and tied it with Daisy Bucket ribbons. I made the tag shaped like a coffin and stamped Little Monsters (also from Daisy Bucket).

And here's Ethan as racer. As soon as he fitted this costume, he told me, "I want this already"!

(sorry for the blurred photo)

I have a five year old in the house now. Ethan turned 5 last Oct. 22. We had a simple "Out of this World" birthday party at his friend's house.

That's it for now. Christmas layouts and projects will be up ... sooner or later hehehe.

-Pia

Turning Five

2009-10-21T13:08:00.005+08:00

Tomorrow is another big day for Ethan. He is (no matter how I deny the fact), turning five years old! I don't know how many posts I can write about his growth on my blog ... I maybe saying the same thing over and over again each year ... that is every time he turns another year older. Sigh! He's so grown up already. He has been reading and doing addition in school. He's artistry has grown into another level too, he's getting better each day and I'm so proud of him!

Take a look at one his many drawings. He did this a few months ago, I wish I can keep and scan all his artworks. I used Prima Hello Space Boy papers to make this project from Lasting Impression.

Ethan loves the outer space. He's fascinated with the planet Saturn the most. He collects rockets, space shuttles, UFOs now instead of cars. He loves to look at images of the galaxy, the planets, the stars etc on the internet! And so for his 5th birthday, he wants an "Outer Space" theme!

We are having a small party tomorrow with an "Out of this World" theme. Will post pictures tomorrow! Wish me luck!

-Pia

Ad Inspiration @ Scrap the Boys

2009-10-12T13:36:00.006+08:00

October Challenge at Scrap the Boys is already up in the blog. The challenge for this month is to use this ad as an inspiration. You can interpret this however you please ... colors, sketch, circles, surf inspired etc.

This is my take:

title: You Rock My World
This is Joaqui, my friend's son. He just turned 7 last Saturday, Oct. 10. Happy Birthday Joaqui!
matls used: BasicGrey Lime Rickey, Sassafras Lass pps, American Crafts Thickers -Lullaby, Zig and Uniball Signo pen, buttons

I hope you'll find time to create your own interpretation of this ad. For your entries, email them to susan.longman@bigpond.com.

Happy creating!

-Pia

Countdown to Halloween

2009-10-08T17:52:00.010+08:00

You have no idea how glad I am to be finally back!!! We finally have internet connection after almost 2 months!!! I know that I've missed some deadlines for my DT assignments. I am slowly doing all the missed projects and updating my blogs and online galleries. I hope you'll bear with me as I slowly make my move back.

So many things have happened after the move. Everytime we say we're home, we actually mean, "WE ARE HOME!". Yes, this is home for us now no matter how small. We are enjoying the new house as well as all the adjustments that come with it. Also, it has been two weeks now that my house help have left us. So even though internet connection is back, I''m spending more time in front of the washing machine again instead of the computer hehehe.

The past week has also been sad because of two things: first, the aftermath of the typhoon Ondoy has left our country really devastated. I can't tell how many times I cried infront of the TV screen because of pity. We're lucky that we are safe and none of our family members have been hurt during the typhoon. But I pray for those who were really affected and have lost their homes and loved ones.

Second sad news is that it's time for me to say farewell to Daisy Bucket Designs. It was a wonderful experience to be part of an international manufacturer's design team. I've been with DBD for two years and I'm very honored to be part of this team. I'm thankful for the generosity of James and Cassandra Cooper, owners of DBD. I'm also thankful for the friendships that have bloomed as I work with the rest of the design team.

I'm sharing with you the last layouts I created for Daisy Bucket but failed to post last month:

Pancake Art
matls used: Daisy Bucket - My Little Monsters; Shabby Green Door - twists; Bazzill cs; Pink Paislee letter stickers; American Crafts Thickers; buttons; Zig pen

Julia
(this is for my friend's niece)
matls used: Daisy Bucket - Posh Posies and Little Black Dress; Bazzill cs; American Crafts Thickers; buttons; Tattered Angels Mist; buttons; flowers and Zig pen

Jr. Chef
(this is for my friend's son, Joaqui)
matls used: Shabby Green Doo r - Farmer's Market (Blue Ribbon Recipe, Sweet Peas & At the Market), Cherry and Lime Twists, Daisy Bucket - Chipboard Text, Bazzill Kraft cs, buttons, We R Memory Keepers metal embellishments, Making Memories black paint, Zig and Uniball pen, Clearsnap ink,

On a happier note, since we've moved, I'm very excited to decorate the house and so I created a halloween wreath and a countdown to Halloween calendar:

For materials and instructions for this project, please visit Lasting Impression. The bat (green on oct. 4) has a magnet at the back which Ethan can move each day. Aside from Halloween, I also included Ethan's 5th birthday which is on the 22nd of this month. Noticed that I put emphasis on two dates: 22 and 31 by embellishing the dates with buttons.

That's it for now, I'll be posting my halloween wreath in awhile. Back to house chores ...

-Pia

We've Moved!

2009-09-19T16:49:00.004+08:00

I'm sorry I have been missing for weeks. I'm happy to announce this good news ... we finally moved to a new house! It's a rent, much smaller than where we used to live but defintely something we can call our "own".

The past weeks have been alloted to packing and unpacking our things from my in laws house to our place. I never thought it'll be so stressful!!! Most of our things are still on boxes ... not because we don't have time to organize them but because we don't have enough cabinets to store them hehehe. I only realized how little we own when I started packing them. And realized too that most of our things are basically documents, magazines and books. We don't have so many appliances and furnitures hehehe. When we moved to my inlaws' house, it was newly built and fully furnished and so we never had the chance to buy our own stuff. Now it seems that we are a newly married couple starting from scratch. The Lord has been blessing us tremendously. He has been sending people who has been generously helping us in our home. We are more than grateful to friends and family especially my parents, Jeff's aunts and lola and my aunt too for all the help.

Moving must have been one of the most important decisions we've made in our lives. It's something we have longed to do for the past 6 years of our married life. And though I regret having to do this after 6 long years, I'm so happy that finally it came through this month!

We love being on our own. Our place is near our business and Ethan's school! Ethan has been adjusting very well. He's so excited about decorating for Halloween and Christmas.

Since we've moved, I cannot scrap yet (no space) and check my email regularly. We still don't have internet connection and we're really hoping our application for PLST DSL will be approved the soonest. If you're looking for me or you need anything from me, I suggest you send me a text message instead as I cannot find time to go to an internet cafe often.

I'll find time again to post layouts I made before we've moved, mostly are Daisy Bucket layouts. I haven't worked on my other DT stints. I'm so sorry. I promise to be back, hopefully soon.

Thanks!

-Pia

Scrappin' Moms at Ruffa and Ai!

2009-08-26T13:01:00.010+08:00

I've just watched myself on TV! I never had the chance with my previous guestings because they are always aired live and because I don't have cable TV bwahahaha! In fairness, 4 minutes and 5 seconds isn't bad at all, probably one of the longest TV exposure Scrappin'Moms had! I was surprised to see that they didn't edit nor cut short our TV exposure. I love it that my layouts were shown in TV (ScrappinMoms, did you see yourselves too?).

The taping was held August 14, 2009. Now you know they don't air live hehehe. Anyway, I was told about this TV guesting the night before ... maybe 9 or 10 in the evening. Talk about showbiz hehehe! Anyway, none of the Scrappin' Moms will be available the next day so I was thinking if this will be worth the gas and the effort to go to ABS CBN, considering it's always a pro bono thing. Besides, Ethan has school test the next day and I was too busy reviewing him that night. But Jeff reassured me I can go if I want to and he'll take care of Ethan the next day. So, I called Arlene and told her if she wanted to come with me. She agreed (and this is the best decision since she literally made everything easy for the two of us). I slept at almost 2 am, trying to prepare for the guesting. I haven't mentioned that I didn't have any idea what will happen or what will be the topic of the discussion. When I talked to Belle of Working Mom Magazine at 11pm (WM are our contact persons for this guesting), she said it'll be about memory keeping, that's it!

The next day, Jeff dropped me off to Arlene's house in Alabang. When I arrived at Arlene's house, my jaw dropped as I saw the Town and Country - of all the cars she picked this one. We almost had everything in the car - tools, pps, embellishments, shadow box frames, printed copies of sketches, food, water, make up etc.! She even brought with her two assistants! Told you she made life easy for us and I'm thankful she was with me.

As I met with Marie (Belle wasn't there) at 12nn., we proceed to the dressing room. I was able to talk to the TV writer and to my surprise found out that the topic for this episode is "reunions and friendships"!!! The Star Circle Quest Batch - Sandra, Roxanne, Melissa and Joross will have an instant reunion in their show. Ok, so I wanted to panic ... because I wasn't ready ... who was, anyway?! She told me that I have to prepare a half done layout so that I can do demo about it.

Me, Arlene and Marie Aquino (Marketing, ABS CBN Publishing)

I had to look on the layouts I brought with me ... anything about friendships, I thought. Good thing I brought my layouts about Scrappin' Moms and about Jeff's friends. Unfortunately, I don't have any picture for the demo. I chose one photo of Ethan and convinced myself this will do.

It took almost 4 hours of waiting before we were called. For the last 4 hours, I can hear my tummy already (I hardly ate anything because I was doing my layout for the show), I was feeling really cold (if you've been to ABS you would know what I mean), I was memorizing my lines (they didn't give me any script whatsoever so I had to come up with my own and be ready in case the hosts asks me questions). Marie told me to mention about Working Mom Magazine, sort of this way, "for more featured articles on bonding activities with your friends, kids, grab a copy of Working Mom Magazine". And yes you bet that's the one I forgot!!!!!!!!! I felt I was doomed and I was so embarassed when I went down the stage and looked at Marie. I have to call every one I know from WM just to apologize for my mistake!

Anyway, the guesting turned out well (except for the one I mentioned). I don't have problems with speaking in public, buti na lang makapal mukha ko hehehe. I explained a little about memory keeping, the words that came out from my mouth is already obscure to my memory. hehehe. I taught Sanadra a little on scrapbooking, I was giving her the letters and the buttons but she would hesitate everytime I tell her she can place them anywhere she wants to. To top it all, I was able to promote Scrappin' Moms and the upcoming Scrapfest! Arlene though didn't get to talk because when the PA asked us who's going to do the demo and explain, Arlene pointed to me. I was given a lapel but I was thinking she should've been given one also because she was also a guest.

Off air, Ruffa talked to me coz she wanted a scrapbook album for herself. I'm keeping my fingers crossed because it'll be good for Scrappin' Moms. Also, Roxanne approached me for my number. She's a nice girl and very beautiful. I had to tell her I was starstruck. Back then when she was still in SCQ, she was my bet and I've always liked her pretty face.

The layout I did during the show. Sandara placed the heart, some of the buttons, and the letter stickers. At home, I altered it a bit hehehe. I added word stickers, the journaling and a few more elements. (Based on a sketch by Becky Fleck)

It felt good to be able to see myself in TV again. I'm glad that I was able to show my layouts and tell the audience about this wonderful hobby. I hope that many will be encouraged to scrap and our community of scrappers will grow tremendously. Most of all, I 'm happy that I was able to represent Scrappin' Moms. I hope one day (you know this Liza) we will be given a break we deserve ; D

Thanks to Working Mom Magazine and to Arlene for coming along with me!

-Pia

Claudine Barreto

2009-08-19T15:11:00.010+08:00

I was in my teen years when I used to watch Claudine Barreto in the famous show, "Ang TV". A show aired at 4pm as I fondly remember it. I was a fan back then and I never thought that I'd be privileged to scrap Claudine's photos now. It's truly an honor. My only wish is that I get to meet and talk to her and maybe Ms. Kris Aquino too! It is such an irony that I get to see their personal family photos but I never had any connection with them!

I was asked by Star Studio Magazine to do this scrapbook album as a gift for Claudine's birthday. I did this a day before her actual birthday celebration at ASAP. I printed Claudine's photos that evening and told myself that I would finish the 10 layouts for her that same evening too . Unfortunately, I was very tired when I came home past midnight and thought that I'd rest for awhile. I had the shock of my life when I realized I overslept and woke up at about 5am! The album has to be brought to ABS CBN late afternoon that day.

So, I had to scrap ala "Studio Azul's Scrapbook Buffet", 10 layouts within 5 hours atleast! I started at 5:15am and finished at almost 1pm (I had to do several mommy duties in between so I actually didn't scrap all those hours!) My hands were already shaking because of panic and pressure! It was one of those moments I never want to be in again hehehe ...

I was able to deliver the album past 5pm at ABS. It was raining hard that day (may bagyo yata if I'm not mistaken). Since Jeff has a photo coverage that day, I had to commute with Ethan from Cavite to Quezon City!

I'm sorry the photos didn't do justice to Claudine and her family's photos. The photos were taken inside the car a few minutes before I finally gave the album to Sheila of ABS CBN Publishing. It was the best that I can do that time.

Thanks!

-Pia