Signs of a Comeback?

I've been walking around lately with blog posts rolling around in my head. I've spent days reflecting on why I've stopped blogging and creating. I really don't think I buy the "I'm busy" mantra I've been wearing the last year. Yes, I'm busy, that is fact but I strongly believe that there is always opportunity to create space for what you love. I've asked myself recently, why hasn't this been something important enough to create space for?

I think I'm finding the answers, the authentic but sometimes ugly answers. By owning up I feel strong enough to face my own inner critic. And this all matters why? Because, I made a layout this week. It took three days, it was not about my children, it is not anything that is ready for publication or completely original but it was a story I wanted to tell and it.felt.good.

We are leaving for the hospital in minutes and Mitch is having knee surgery. A few weeks ago he tore his ACL and today they will put it back together. Any good thoughts & prayers are appreciated today for a smooth surgery and a speedy recovery!

I'm planning to take the time work on some embarrasingly overdue projects and to sit and write with any distraction to hopefully, finally sort out everything in my head.

Hope you have a beautiful Friday and a wonderful Labor Day weekend!

Monica

For My Mental Health

Lately, I've been crazy busy with all the responsibilities of work, adjusting to a new routine in our house and the never ending athletic schedule of Garrett not to mention Baby Owen who is now loving called Mr. Mischief. On Sunday I decided that it was in the best interest of my mental health to make a layout.

These bits have been sitting on my desk since Valentine's and were originally fated for Project Life. But, I felt there was more of a story to tell so I didn't include them. Now, this will go into my Things We Do Album which is part of my Library of Memories.

The layout is based on Kelly Purkey's Sketchbook 3, Day 2 sketch. There was so much inspiration in class I will probably work off of that class for awhile to get back into the groove of layouts.

Journaling: A meal that wasn't rushed or interrupted by kids. A movie that we almost missed in the theatre. A bit of space where we were able to talk about where we've been & where we are going. A perfect Valentine's Day spent in the company of my husband a day early. February 13, 2011.

All supplies came from the Studio Calico kit Candy Shoppe. Thanks to the sketch & the kit I was able to get this done during Owen's afternoon nap while I ignored the laundry. Just like that my mental health was restored & I could continue on in my day being a happy wife & fun mama.

Thanks for stopping by! I'm off to catch a plane for work, will it ever slow down? Nope :)

lovemon

Show & Tell

This week since we have not been running around like crazy people I've been working with the baby on self soothing & napping in either his crib (not so successful) or the pack and play (better). As a result I've actually been able to finish a layout that has been sitting on my desk since, wait for it, JULY 22.

I was inspired by Lisa Dickinson's challenge to create a 10 minute layout based on her design. As Garrett would say, Mama got distracted. But I'm not worried about it because I'm just so happy to have scrapped!!

Journaling: Before there was the craft store or Target or Toys R Us there was Borders. You & I would make several visits to the kids section & come home with a stack of new books. At a little over a year old you were already an avid reader & book lover. I wouldn't have had it any other way. Love Mom

While I was putting the layout in my most recent album I realized I never shared this one completed months ago. This layout was inspired by Ali Edwards.

Also, thanks to everyone who left comments on this post. Leora I'll be pulling together a box of goodies for you. Please send me a note at withoutfilters(at)gmail(dot)com so we can coordinate!

Leora said...
What a cutie! I am sending vibes. For us, it is the last year of high school. I feel like my son is four years old, but somehow he is driving, has a girlfriend and will be heading off to college this time next year. Sigh! Enjoy all the moments ahead...

August 16, 2010 11:51 PM

I hear the baby stirring which means our successful morning nap is quickly coming to a close. If he naps well again I may just double post today!!

lovemon

Inspiration Chain

I recently played a game of scrapbooking telephone with some of my Ella Friends. My assignment was to be inspired by the layout before me. I was lucky enough to follow Barb, whose layouts I love.



To see my inspiration and how our game of telephone ended go take a look at the August issue of Scrapbook Ellaments. There is even a chance for you to play along for a chance to win some goodies from Ella.

lovemon