DesignZ by DeDe

High/Low: February 3, 2012 + Freebie

2012-02-03T00:00:00.003-07:00

My LOW this Week is

My HIGH for this Week is

I have a freebie for you today - a quickpage that coordinates with my JUST BEEZ CUZ. The Freebie was created by my TearZ Crew Member, Janeal Kelemen. Make sure you let her know how much you enjoy it by commenting!

Have a great weekend!

DOWNLOAD LINK

Facebook Page Challenge

2012-02-02T10:58:00.003-07:00

Please join me for my Challenge Saturday! I'm hoping to offer some kind of challenge every Saturday (except for when we have a Show-OffZ Challenge-then I will just be sharing the challenge layouts).

This week, Saturday, February 4th - please join me on my FACEBOOK PAGE for a great challenge and receive a fabulous 3-pack of StackZ! You will have Saturday and Sunday to complete the challenge! So please come and join me!

Recipe Thursday - Green Chili Enchilada Bake

2012-02-02T00:00:00.001-07:00

Each Thursday, I am going to be sharing a recipe with you!
I will pick a recipe from my collection and I will be sharing where I got the recipe and everything. But I am going to include my own photo of the finished food, the original recipe, and try and share the things I changed when I made it!

I would love your help too! If you have a great recipe, especially week-night dinner recipes (but I would love all kinds of recipes) - please share it with me, by emailing me at dedesmith32@gmail.com. I will try it out and feature it on my blog! If you have cooking tips or anything else in regards to cooking and food - please email me!

This week's Recipe:
I love my usual recipe for Chicken Enchiladas, but this was a different and easier recipe! And I loved Jenny's alternate title for this recipe - The "I don't want to make dinner" dinner. It intrigued me and I totally had to give it a try. It turned out delicious and my kids loved it - even Beth. My son said, "This looks familiar," (because it did look a bit like my usual Chicken Enchiladas, though I use the red sauce for it), and then he said but "it tastes different, but good." :)

Green Chili Enchilada Bake
by Jenny from Picky Palate

1 cup mild green enchilada sauce
1 cup reduced fat sour cream
3/4 cup salsa verde, mild
12 white corn tortillas broken into 1 inch pieces
2 cups cooked chicken or turkey breast
One 15 ounce can black beans, drained
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. and spray a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray.

Place enchilada sauce, sour cream and salsa into prepared baking sheet. Stir until well combined.

Stir in broken tortillas, chicken or turkey and black beans. Stir to combine and top evenly with cheese.

Bake for 22-25 minutes, until cheese is hot and melted. Serve with chips and salsa if desired.

For Claire

2012-02-01T12:02:00.003-07:00

A few weeks ago, Becky Higgins on her site shared the story of a family friend named Claire and her family. In trying to help the family, Becky has opened up her blog to advertising for the first time. All of the advertising money goes to Claire's family. I was so incredibly touched by Claire's story and just happened to have a little extra money this month and I was able to purchase a small ad.

Today was the first day that the ads appeared on Becky's site. I would incourage you to go to beckyhiggins.com and read Claire's story and also check out the wonderful sponsors that have made it possible for Claire and her family to move forward. I'm excited that I was able to donate the small amount that I could to her family.

** And to be honest, its really a bit selfish too. Because, I'm pretty excited to actually have an ad on Becky Higgins site - I mean pretty cool right?

2012 Blog Schedule

2012-02-01T06:35:00.003-07:00

Can it possibly be February already? Where did January go? Crazy life isn't it?

Anyways, I am finally getting things together. Sorry about my disappearance in January. Life happened. Depression happened. But hopefully I am on the mend and coming back. I am really looking forward to finding joy in creating again and to be back on a schedule!

Speaking of schedules....I have one worked out for my blog. It's mostly the same as last year - but just for your information, I thought I would share!

Sundays - I am not doing Project 365 this year. I just needed a little break. Hopefully I can do it next year. But I would still like to share a little bit about my personal life on Sundays. So there will hopefully be a posting with photos of something that happened or is happening in my family.

Mondays - This will still be my New Release Day and Show-OffZ Challenge posting. When I don't have a new release ready - I'm going to try to share something with you - a tutorial, an idea, etc.

Tuesdays - This is still going to be my Family History Tuesdays. I am currently going to continue to offer prompts for your journal writing - but I want to also try to bring other family history ideas in. We'll see what I come up with.

Wednesdays - This is still going to be my quote/saying day. Just sharing some little inspiration for you!

Thursdays - This is my recipe sharing day!

Fridays - High/Low and a Freebie

Saturdays - This is when I will share the layouts for the Show-OffZ Challenge. If I don't have a Show-OffZ Challenge during the week - I'm going to offer some other kind of challenge - including directing you to my Facebook Page for some challenges!

What do you think? I hope you will follow me this year and I would love for you to participate! Here's to a fabulous new year (yea, I'm a month late, but whatever!) Love you all!

Wednesday Sayings - 2/1/12

2012-02-01T00:00:00.000-07:00

Changes

2012-01-31T14:48:00.002-07:00

I made the difficult decision of leaving Digitals today. It has been my digital home for a long time and I am so sad. But sometimes change is a good thing right? I just felt the need to move on.

So, I will be focusing on my blog/facebook store and at MyMemories. I hope you will join my Facebook page and continue to support my efforts.

Thanks for all your support!

Yes, I'm Alive

2012-01-11T16:55:00.002-07:00

So hi. Yes, it probably seems like I have disappeared into the blog oblivion, but I really am still alive.

I am just working behind the scenes trying to get my new blog store/facebook store cart system working. Adding products is just taking all my time and energy. I'm really excited about the whole thing though - so go check it out. Right under my blog header you will see a link to my BLOG STORE. I am still uploading, but I do have a few products in there. I'm most excited about offering bundles! So you will be able to get all my collections as bundles for a special price - only through my blog or facebook. This same cart system is available on my Facebook page too - so it is very convenient and I hope you all came take a look around and let me know what you think.

Speaking of Facebook - I am now the host of a page instead of a group. So please come like my page. I will be discontinuing the group shortly. I did this so I could take advantage of having a store right on the page - it didn't work with groups. When I reach 100 likes - I'm going to send you all a coupon - so come like me now!

Back to the new store - I haven't got a sale yet - and I'm hoping to entice one of you readers to be my first customer! You can do it through Facebook or this blog - its the same cart. And my first customer is going to get a $10 coupon for a future order!

So lots going on - even though it seems like nothing is going on. Once I get all my products loaded, I will try and get back on the blog and doing my almost daily postings and freebies and new products! Thanks for your patience!

Recipe Thursday - 30 Minute Rolls

2012-01-05T00:00:00.000-07:00

Each Thursday, I am going to be sharing a recipe with you!
I will pick a recipe from my collection and I will be sharing where I got the recipe and everything. But I am going to include my own photo of the finished food, the original recipe, and try and share the things I changed when I made it!

I would love your help too! If you have a great recipe, especially week-night dinner recipes (but I would love all kinds of recipes) - please share it with me, by emailing me at dedesmith32@gmail.com. I will try it out and feature it on my blog! If you have cooking tips or anything else in regards to cooking and food - please email me!

This week's Recipe:
I love my old Roll Recipe - A LOT. But I had to try these out because my old recipe takes a long time. But these are really fast and they use yeast even! They are beautiful, yummy rolls that go perfect with soup!

30 Minute Rolls
by Leigh Ann from Your Homebased Mom

1 cup plus 2 Tbsp warm water
1/3 cup oil
2 Tbsp yeast
1/4 cup sugar
1/2 tsp salt
1 egg
3 1/2 cup flour

Heat oven to 400 degrees.

In your mixer bowl combine the water, oil, yeast and sugar and allow it to rest for 15 minutes. Using your dough hook, mix in the salt, egg and flour. Knead with hook until will incorporated and dough is soft and smooth. (Just a few minutes)

Form dough into 12 balls and then place in a greased 9 x 13 pan and allow to rest for 10 minutes. Bake for 10 minutes at 400 degrees or until golden brown.

My Blog 2012

2012-01-03T14:14:00.003-07:00

Hi everyone! I hope you had a fantastic holiday season. I sure did. I'm having a really hard time getting back on track and coming back to the real world! I'm in the process of deciding what I want to do in 2012 and get organized.

So I want your help!!!! I want your honest opinions. What do you like about my blog? What don't you? What would you like to see more of? I would love to have more postings and get a schedule going - so please comment and let me know!

Just so you know - I have decided to not do the Project 365 this year. I have done 3 years in a row and have gotten so behind in the layouts. I am vowing to get those 3 years done in scrapbooks this year. I still hope to share my life with you through a label of LIFE 2012 - but it won't be every week and it will probably just be major events or something. But hopefully I can get back on track and do Project 365 in 2013.

So help me out and please comment!

High/Low: December 30, 2011 + Freebie

2011-12-30T00:00:00.000-07:00

My LOW this Week is

My HIGH for this Week is

I have a freebie for you today - a quickpage that coordinates with my WARM WISHES FOR CHRISTMAS. The Freebie was created by my TearZ Crew Member, Kay Carrothers. Make sure you let her know how much you enjoy it by commenting!

Have a great weekend!

DOWNLOAD LINK

Recipe Thursday - Baked Mac 'n Cheese

2011-12-29T00:00:00.002-07:00

4 cups Macaroni, uncooked
6 T. butter
2 medium onion, halved and thinly sliced
1/2 pound bacon
1/4 cups flour
2 1/2 cups milk
2 egg yokes, beaten
salt and pepper, to taste
3 cups cheddar cheese, the sharper the better

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Cook macaroni for half the time of the package instructions. Drain and set aside. Fry bacon until slightly, crispy. Drain on a paper towel. Reserve 1 T. of the bacon grease. In the same skillet that you fried the bacon in add the onions and cook over medium-low heat for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and soft. Set aside.

In a pot, melt 4 tablespoons butter. Sprinkle in flour and whisk to combine. Cook, stirring constantly, over medium heat for 1 minute. Pour in milk, cook for 3 to 5 minutes or until thick. Reduce heat to low. Add salt & pepper to taste. (Do not undersalt!)

Beat egg yolks in a seperate small bowl then drizzle 1/4 cup hot milk mixture into the yolks, stirring constantly. Pour egg mixture back into sauce and cook for another minute.

Add cheese and stir until melted. Add onions and bacon and stir. Taste for seasonings and add more salt if needed. Add cooked macaroni and stir to coat. Pour into a baking dish and bake for 15 to 20 minutes or until sizzling and hot.

Wednesday Sayings - 12/28/11

2011-12-28T00:00:00.002-07:00

Family History Tuesday - 12/27/11

2011-12-27T00:00:00.002-07:00

Each Tuesday, I am going to be offering question(s) or idea(s). If you don't write in your journal regularly - I am going to encourage you to write just ONCE A WEEK and answer the question/idea that I give on Tuesdays. These ideas hopefully will spark a memory and you will be able to capture that in what you write/record so that it can be left for your children/grandchildren/family/friends. Give as much detail as you can when answering.

Will you do this for me? Will you do this for your families? You can write it down in a journal, you can type it up on a computer or journaling software, you can take a recorder and talk, you can videotape your answers, you can even scrap a page with the journaling. It doesn't matter how you do this - it's just important that you do it. The memories, the dates, the information is the only real thing we can leave to our families when we are gone.

If I come up with other family history ideas - I will be sure to share it here too - and if you want to share with me your ideas - that would be wonderful and I'd be glad to share them here too. Just comment here or email me at dedesmith32@gmail.com.

Here is this week's journal prompt :

High/Low: December 23, 2011 + Freebie

2011-12-23T00:00:00.003-07:00

My LOW this Week is that the kids and I have had a little bit of colds. The coughing at night has become pretty annoying for all of us - but hopefully we will be better soon.

My HIGH for this Week is that everything is ready for Christmas and I have been on vacation all week! Everything has been really great. No stress - just relaxation. Wonderful.

I have a freebie for you today - a cluster that coordinates with my CHRISTMAS WRAP. The Freebie was created by my TearZ Crew Member, Lorilee Guenter. Make sure you let her know how much you enjoy it by commenting!

Have a great weekend!

DOWNLOAD LINK

Recipe Thursday - Pretzel Turtles

2011-12-22T00:00:00.001-07:00

Rolo chocolate candies
Mini pretzels
Nuts - cashews/ pecans/almonds/hazelnuts/walnuts
M&Ms

Upwrap your Rolos. Place pretzels on baking sheet. Top with a Rolo.

Bake in 350 degree oven for 3-5 minutes, until the chocolate just begins to melt. The Rolo should be soft but not completely melted.

Remove from oven, place on cooling rack and immediately squish the chocolate with a nut or M&M. Eat immediately while warm - yummy. Or let them cool to give to friends!

Merry Christmas 2011

2011-12-21T00:05:00.000-07:00

I send out lots of Christmas Cards every year, but unfortunately I can't send them to everyone. So I just wanted to share with you our Christmas Card this year!

I want to thank each and every one of you for reading my blog and for being such great support to me! I love to hear when you enjoy my products and I love all of you for making designing such a joy for me!

I wish you all a VERY VERY VERY MERRY CHRISTMAS and a joyful HOLIDAY SEASON! I hope each one of you feels the REASON FOR THE SEASON and the true magic and spirit of Christmas! I hope you have lots of family time and that your season is the best ever!

Love you all! Merry Christmas!

Wednesday Sayings - 12/21/11

2011-12-21T00:00:00.001-07:00

Each Wednesday, I am going to be sharing a quote/saying with you!
I am a collector of quotes/sayings/scrapbook titles, etc. and I love to hear new ones! So, each week, I will share a quote/saying with you that I hope will inspire you and make your day a little better! If you have any great quotes/sayings - feel free to send them in to me at dedesmith32@gmail.com - I would love to use them!

This week's quote:

True happiness comes only by making others happy—the practical application of the Savior’s doctrine of losing one’s life to gain it. In short, the Christmas spirit is the Christ spirit, that makes our hearts glow in brotherly love and friendship and prompts us to kind deeds of service.
- David O. McKay

It is Christmas in the heart that puts Christmas in the air.
- W.T. Ellis

Family History Tuesday - 12/20/11

2011-12-20T00:00:00.002-07:00

High/Low: December 16, 2011 + Freebie

2011-12-16T00:00:00.003-07:00

My LOW this Week is that medication isn't working yet and I am still having panic attacks. (Yes, I admit that I am suffering depression/anxiety and am now officially on medication :( Hopefully it will all work out soon.

My HIGH for this Week is that I am now on CHRISTMAS VACATION. I will have to tell you about our awesome night tonight at another time, but I am just so grateful for my family and this wonderful chance to get away together!

I have a freebie for you today - a cluster that coordinates with my CHRISTMAS WRAP. The Freebie was created by my TearZ Crew Member, Holly Weber. Make sure you let her know how much you enjoy it by commenting!

Have a great weekend!

DOWNLOAD LINK

Season Greeting

2011-12-15T19:25:00.000-07:00

Gentle.

Be Kind.

Apologize.

Write a letter.

Keep a promise.

Try to understand.

Give a soft answer.

Laugh a little more.

Express your gratitude.

Think first of someone else.

Seek out a forgotten friend.

Gladden the heart of a child.

Examine your demands on others.

Speak your love, then speak it again.

Manifest your loyalty in word and deed.

Dismiss suspicion and replace it with trust.

Take pleasure in the beauty and wonder of the earth.

Forgo a grudge.

Mend a quarrel.

Encourage a youth.

Welcome a stranger.

-Howard W. Hunter

Merry Christmas!

Recipe Thursday - Pumpkin Snickerdoodles

2011-12-15T00:00:00.003-07:00

Each Thursday, I am going to be sharing a recipe with you!
I will pick a recipe from my collection and I will be sharing where I got the recipe and everything. But I am going to include my own photo of the finished food, the original recipe, and try and share the things I changed when I made it!

I would love your help too! If you have a great recipe, especially week-night dinner recipes (but I would love all kinds of recipes) - please share it with me, by emailing me at dedesmith32@gmail.com. I will try it out and feature it on my blog! If you have cooking tips or anything else in regards to cooking and food - please email me!

This week's Recipe:
I haven't made Snickerdoodles in a long time but they are yummy. When I saw this recipe, I knew I had to try it - I love pumpkin cookies! Mine turned out a lot darker than Annie's - but they were good!

Pumpkin Snickerdoodles
by Annie from Annie's Eats

For the cookies:
3¾ cups all-purpose flour
1½ tsp. baking powder
½ tsp. salt
½ tsp. ground cinnamon
¼ tsp. ground nutmeg
1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, at room temperature
1 cup granulated sugar
½ cup light brown sugar
¾ cup pumpkin puree
1 large egg
2 tsp. vanilla extract

For the coating:
½ cup granulated sugar
1 tsp. ground cinnamon
½ tsp. ground ginger
Dash of allspice

In a medium bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Whisk to blend and set aside. In the bowl of an electric mixer, beat together the butter and sugars on medium-high speed until light and fluffy, 2-3 minutes. Blend in the pumpkin puree. Beat in the egg and vanilla until incorporated. With the mixer on low speed add in the dry ingredients and mix just until incorporated. Cover and chill the dough for at least 1 hour.

Preheat the oven to 350˚ F. Line baking sheets with silicone baking mats or parchment paper. Combine the sugar and spices for the coating in a bowl and mix to blend. Scoop the dough (about 2½ tablespoons) and roll into a ball. Coat the dough ball in the sugar-spice mixture and place on the prepared baking sheet. Repeat with the remaining dough to fill the sheets, spacing the dough balls 2-3 inches apart. Dip the bottom of a flat, heavy-bottomed drinking glass in water, then in the sugar-spice mixture, and use the bottom to flatten the dough balls slightly. Recoat the bottom of the glass in the sugar-spice mixture as needed.

Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes, or until just set and baked through. Let cool on the baking sheets about 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Repeat with the remaining dough. Store in an airtight container.

Wednesday Sayings - 12/14/11

2011-12-14T00:00:00.001-07:00

Each Wednesday, I am going to be sharing a quote/saying with you!
I am a collector of quotes/sayings/scrapbook titles, etc. and I love to hear new ones! So, each week, I will share a quote/saying with you that I hope will inspire you and make your day a little better! If you have any great quotes/sayings - feel free to send them in to me at dedesmith32@gmail.com - I would love to use them!

This week's quote:

Giving, not getting, brings to full bloom the Christmas spirit. Enemies are forgiven, friends remembered, and God obeyed. The spirit of Christmas illuminates the picture window of the soul, and we look out upon the world’s busy life and become more interested in people than things. To catch the real meaning of the “spirit of Christmas,” we need only drop the last syllable, and it becomes the “Spirit of Christ.”
- President Thomas S. Monson

Family History Tuesday - 12/13/11

2011-12-13T00:00:00.002-07:00

Book Review: Heir to Power

2011-12-10T00:45:00.002-07:00

Heir to Power by Michele Poague

Book Review by Joey Smith

Purchase on Amazon
Please visit the author's website

Kairma knelt on one knee and held the Crystal to her breast. "I am Kairma, heir and guardian of the Healing Crystal. My lord of this mountain, I bring the Crystal to you, that you may heal us."
Sitting cross-legged before the statue, she place the Crystal on the ground in front of her and looked up at the colony. Her voice cracked with nervousness as she said, "I am your Healer. Bring to me your sick and weary that I may heal them."
Trep was astounded. Can it really be the mythological Star of Genesis! I didn't believe it really existed! So that's what they're hiding.

This book somewhat took me by surprise. For the first 30 pages or so, I had a lot of difficulty getting myself into the story - but, as the story developed, I grew more accustomed to the the kind of story being told as well as the vehicle being used to deliver it. By the middle of the book I was able to at least enjoy the tale on its own merits, and it actually had a decent finish considering the fact that it's the first volume in a planned trilogy. However, there were a few things that contributed to my inital difficulty that I think deserve mention here.

First, typographical and grammatical errors. There were quite a few more of these than I normally expect to find in a published book. However, inside the front cover, there was a note from the author mentioning that after the first printing, (some portion of) these errors had been noticed, and corrected files had been sent to the publisher. However, since the printing I recieved was prior to these corrections, I just can't be sure how many of them were caught and fixed - and, as I mentioned in my review of Starscout Rising, I find these kinds of error incredibly jarring and destructive to the suspension of disbelief that is the hallmark of a truly great read.

Second, the selection of names for major characters, devices, and objects was - in my opinion - poorly done, creating a sort of "vowel soup" for long stretches of text. It resulted in my having to stop and read the words, instead of having them just flow in with the story, each time they came up in the text. Others might not have the same degree of trouble with it I did, but when I hit page 303 and the text still didn't flow when I came across the names of major characters, it just left me feeling a bit frustrated.

Third, the choice of Kairma as the primary protagonist. I never really connected with her character emotionally. I've had some difficulty putting my finger on the exact cause - I don't know if it's just because she's a teenage girl and so I don't have enough of a shared experience, or what may be going on there - but if you don't invest in the protagonist it makes it difficult to really immerse yourself in the story.

Those things being said, there's an enjoyable story here. I've probably read a hundred books that could be classified in the same sort of post-apocalyptic genre, and this one definitely had some fresh ideas on the matter. The colony of the Survin had more than its share of vibrantly painted characters, and there were few moustache-twisting outright "villains" - pretty much everyone had a legitimate motive or reason for doing the things they did, even when those actions led to disaster for others.

In the final analysis, I would say this is a lukewarm first entry in the planned trilogy of "The Healing Crystal" - it sets up the framework for what I imagine will be an enjoyable ride through the process of rebuilding human society and technology from the brink of ruin. The characters are fully-realized individuals, which is not a common trait to find in the work of a freshman writer, and the hiccups are fairly minor and certainly resolvable. The balance between science fiction, fantasy, and a high-adventure western is well-maintained throughout, and I expect to be hearing the name Michele Poague more as her talent continues to develop.

Disclosure: I received a free copy of this novel for review, but this did not influence my opinion.

High/Low: December 9, 2011 + Freebie

2011-12-09T00:00:00.002-07:00

My LOW this Week is that I made the decision to stop my crops. It was a really difficult thing for me to do, even though I just know its the right thing for me at this time.

My HIGH for this Week is that I am actually getting things done of my to-do list. I've actually accomplished a lot this week and that just feels good.

I have a freebie for you today - a cluster that coordinates with my KINDRED SPIRITZ. The Freebie was created by my TearZ Crew Member, Lorilee Guenter. Make sure you let her know how much you enjoy it by commenting!

Have a great weekend!

DOWNLOAD LINK

Recipe Thursday - Ham & Potato Soup

2011-12-08T00:00:00.002-07:00

4 cups peeled, diced potatoes
1/3 cup chopped celery
1/3 cup finely chopped onion
1 cup diced ham (or just tear up deli-sliced ham)
4 cups water
10 chicken bullion cubes
salt
pepper
5 tablespoons flour
5 tablespoons butter
3 cups milk
Shredded Cheese

Stir all but milk, flour and butter into crockpot. Cook on low for 6-8 hours, check tenderness of potatoes. 20 minutes before serving, melt butter in a saucepan, add flour and gradually add milk, stirring constantly over med heat until thick. Stir mixture into crockpot. Let cook 15-20 minutes more. Serve with Cheese on top.

Wednesday Sayings - 12/7/11

2011-12-07T00:00:00.002-07:00

Over the Hump Crops are closing....

2011-12-06T03:06:00.001-07:00

This is an extremely hard thing to write. I've been thinking and praying constantly over the last little while about my design work. Due to some of my health problems - gallbladder, acid reflux, depression/anxiety - some of the joy that I have felt in designing has went away. I have been put on some medication that isn't working yet and we are trying to find the best thing for me. Now that the surgery is over - I am feeling a little better, but there's still things that are causing anxiety/depression in my life.

Because of this - I have made a very difficult decision. I have decided to close down OVER THE HUMP. This includes all my crops - Surprise Challenge/Book ScrapZ and Speed Crops. I really hate doing it. I have extremely enjoyed rubbing shoulders with all of you the past few years. I hope you know how much I have enjoyed connecting with all of you. And I know we just planned out the rest of the next year in Book ScrapZ - but I just can't do it anymore. The preparation of these crops has taken its toll on me. I have resisted closing with all of my being - but I can't deny the answer to a fervent prayer. It's TIME.

I want to refocus my time on finding the joy in creating again. I want to design. I want to actually scrapbook my family. And as much as I want to be a superwoman - I'm not. So I'm focusing my design work in 2012 to finding that happiness in creating.

I truly hope that you all understand my reasons. I hate being a flake like this. But hopefully you will be patient with me and understanding and that you will still support my efforts in this wonderful digital scrapbooking world.

Thank you so much for the years of participation - it has meant so much to me. Truly it has. You all mean the world to me and I'm so grateful for the friendships that I have made.

The good news is that I'm not quitting. I am still going to design and I will still host the My Favorite ThingZ forum challenge - so I hope you will all stay with me!

Thank you for your time.

Family History Tuesday - 12/6/11

2011-12-06T00:00:00.000-07:00

High/Low: December 2, 2011 + Freebie

2011-12-02T00:00:00.003-07:00

My LOW this Week is that Joey is not feeling well. He has bronchial pneumonia and its been pretty rough for him. We finally have antibiotics so hopefully he will start doing better soon.

My HIGH for this Week is that it is officially the Christmas season. I'm so excited about the fun surprises that we have in store for our kids this year. We are doing a special Christmas-oriented activity every day, a Lego advent calendar, a Scripture advent calendar, and Christmas Stories every night. We are going to go on a vacation from December 16-25th and just be together with lots of fun Christmas crafts. We are going to parallel our Christmas vacation with the Christmas story and go on A JOURNEY TO BETHLEHEM. I'm just so excited and I hope the kids feel the true magic and spirit of Christmas. It's going to be so fun to have a getaway with just my family. I can't wait!

I have a freebie for you today - a quickpage that coordinates with my KINDRED SPIRITZ. The Freebie was created by my TearZ Crew Member, Lorilee Guenter. Make sure you let her know how much you enjoy it by commenting!

Have a great weekend!

DOWNLOAD LINK

Christmas Magic Sale + Beary Elf is Back!

2011-12-01T13:44:00.003-07:00

In celebration of the holiday season, I am happy to announce my

CHRISTMAS MAGIC SALE!!!!
from December 1 - 15th

For $10 you receive your choice of 10 individual products.

Check out my stores (links on the sidebar), including my blogstore products (on the sidebar), and you can choose 10 of them. This is an unlimited deal - which means, you can purchase this deal as many times as you want - so purchase 2 or 3 of this deal and get 20-30 products, etc.

This is for individual items only - so you can't purchase say the whole Happily Ever AfterZ Collection as 1 product, it would be 12 products - Same goes for my Zoo TearZ and Scrapbook Essentials Collections, etc. Also NOT included is Sisters by Heart Kits, and any exclusive kits that I have at iScrapbook. Thanks!

Please purchase through Paypal with the button below and then email me with a list of the names of the products. Email me at dedesmith32@gmail.com. After I receive your list and your payment, I will send your download links to you - I will be using your paypal email to send the links unless you give me another one!

This deal will run from December 1-15th.

Thank you so much for your support!

Now, in addition to this amazing sale - BEARY ELF IS BACK!

Beary Elf is ready to grant you a wish from your DesignZ by DeDe Want List!

Email your product wish to Beary @ dedesmith32@gmail.com (only 1 product please and no whole collections, just 1 individual product).

And Beary will check his list to make sure you have been Nice and if are one of the first 50 people to email him then you will receive your wish!

THIS GIVEAWAY is only available to the first 50 people to email me. Last Day to email is December 15th!

Recipe Thursday - 4 Layer Bars

2011-12-01T00:00:00.002-07:00

Each Thursday, I am going to be sharing a recipe with you!
I will pick a recipe from my collection and I will be sharing where I got the recipe and everything. But I am going to include my own photo of the finished food, the original recipe, and try and share the things I changed when I made it!

I would love your help too! If you have a great recipe, especially week-night dinner recipes (but I would love all kinds of recipes) - please share it with me, by emailing me at dedesmith32@gmail.com. I will try it out and feature it on my blog! If you have cooking tips or anything else in regards to cooking and food - please email me!

This week's Recipe:
These are one of my husband's very favorite treats. It was one of the first things I had to make for him when we got married. I got the recipe from his mom, but I have tweaked it slightly to make it a bit more gooey!

4 Layer Bars
by DeDe Smith

1 cube of butter
2 cups crushed graham crackers
1 bag chocolate chips
2 cups shredded coconut
2 cups chopped walnuts
1 can condensed milk

In a 8x8 glass pan or a glass brownie pan - melt butter in microwave. Add the graham crackers and press into the button of the pan. Then add the following in evenly spread layers in this order: chocolate chips, coconut, walnuts. Then pour condensed milk over the top. Bake in 350 degree oven for 30-40 minutes.

Wednesday Sayings - 11/30/11

2011-11-30T00:00:00.001-07:00

Family History Tuesday - 11/29/11

2011-11-29T00:00:00.000-07:00

High/Low: November 25, 2011 + Freebie

2011-11-25T00:00:00.001-07:00

My LOW this Week is

My HIGH for this Week is

I have a freebie for you today - a quickpage that coordinates with my APOTHECARY DREAMZ. The Freebie was created by my TearZ Crew Member, Lorilee Guenter. Make sure you let her know how much you enjoy it by commenting!

Have a great weekend!

DOWNLOAD LINK

Recipe Thursday - Ham & Swiss Rolls

2011-11-24T00:00:00.003-07:00

Each Thursday, I am going to be sharing a recipe with you!
I will pick a recipe from my collection and I will be sharing where I got the recipe and everything. But I am going to include my own photo of the finished food, the original recipe, and try and share the things I changed when I made it!

I would love your help too! If you have a great recipe, especially week-night dinner recipes (but I would love all kinds of recipes) - please share it with me, by emailing me at dedesmith32@gmail.com. I will try it out and feature it on my blog! If you have cooking tips or anything else in regards to cooking and food - please email me!

This week's Recipe:
These are so good! You have to try them right now! I made these for General Conference Weekend. I cooked a full ham in the crockpot and used thick slices, but you could use deli ham or whatever you would like. So so so good!

Ham & Swiss Rolls
by Becky Higgins

12 rolls
mayonnaise
12 thick slices deli ham
12 slices Swiss cheese
1/2 c. melted butter
1 1/2 Tbsp. mustard
1/2 tsp. Worcestershire sauce
1 1/2 Tbsp. poppy seeds

Slice rolls in half so they open. Spread mayo on top and bottom of the inside of each roll. Assemble rolls with a slice of cheese and a slice of ham. Place all of these in a baking pan or stone. Mix together the melted butter, mustard, Worcestershire sauce and poppy seeds with a whisk. Brush this mixture all over the tops of the rolls and cover with tin foil. Bake at 350 for 15-20 minutes until heated through.

Wednesday Sayings - 11/23/11

2011-11-23T00:00:00.002-07:00

Family History Tuesday - 11/22/11

2011-11-22T00:00:00.002-07:00

High/Low: November 18, 2011 + Freebie

2011-11-18T00:00:00.003-07:00

Recipe Thursday - Yellow Squash Casserole

2011-11-17T00:00:00.004-07:00

Each Thursday, I am going to be sharing a recipe with you!
I will pick a recipe from my collection and I will be sharing where I got the recipe and everything. But I am going to include my own photo of the finished food, the original recipe, and try and share the things I changed when I made it!

I would love your help too! If you have a great recipe, especially week-night dinner recipes (but I would love all kinds of recipes) - please share it with me, by emailing me at dedesmith32@gmail.com. I will try it out and feature it on my blog! If you have cooking tips or anything else in regards to cooking and food - please email me!

This week's Recipe:
This recipe got even my kiddos to eat squash. They were a bit nervous about it, but after trying a bite, they both had seconds! It's a very tasty side dish and great way to use up the squash from your garden.

Yellow Squash Casserole
by DeDe Smith

4 cups sliced yellow squash
1/2 cup chopped onion
35 buttery round crackers, crushed
1 cup shredded Cheddar cheese
2 eggs, beaten
3/4 cup milk
1/4 cup butter, melted
1 teaspoon salt
ground black pepper to taste
2 tablespoons butter
Seasonings - garlic, onion, season salt

Preheat oven to 400 degrees.

Place squash, onion and garlic in a large skillet over medium heat. Pour in a small amount of water. Cover, and cook until squash is tender, about 5 minutes. Drain well, and place in a large bowl.

In a medium bowl, mix together cracker crumbs and cheese. Stir half of the cracker mixture into the cooked squash and onions. In a small bowl, mix together eggs and milk, then add to squash mixture. Stir in 1/4 cup melted butter, and season with salt and pepper. Spread into a 9x13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle with remaining cracker mixture, and dot with 2 tablespoons butter.

Bake in preheated oven for 25 minutes, or until lightly browned.

FREE! Kindred SpiritZ: CSS

2011-11-16T15:27:00.001-07:00

Check it out - my Kindred SpiritZ: CSS is FREE right now at MyMemories! Go download it while you can!

AND while you are at it. Make sure you head on over to the MyMemories Facebook Page - there are lots and lots of giveaways happening and you could be a winner! So make sure you like their page!

Wednesday Sayings - 11/16/11

2011-11-16T00:00:00.002-07:00

Family History Tuesday - 11/15/11

2011-11-15T00:00:00.001-07:00

High/Low: November 11, 2011 + Freebie

2011-11-11T00:00:00.003-07:00

My LOW this Week is that I have just been so sick. I will be most likely having surgery to get my gallbladder taken out next week. I meet with the surgeon on Monday.

My HIGH for this Week is that I felt well enough yesterday to do a good cleanup of the house. Now at least I can relax in clean rather than in a mess.

I have a freebie for you today - a quickpage that coordinates with my BETHIE'S ROOM. The Freebie was created by my TearZ Crew Member, Kay Carrothers. Make sure you let her know how much you enjoy it by commenting!

Have a great weekend!

DOWNLOAD LINK

Recipe Thursday - Pumpkin Monkey Bread

2011-11-10T00:00:00.002-07:00

Each Thursday, I am going to be sharing a recipe with you!
I will pick a recipe from my collection and I will be sharing where I got the recipe and everything. But I am going to include my own photo of the finished food, the original recipe, and try and share the things I changed when I made it!

I would love your help too! If you have a great recipe, especially week-night dinner recipes (but I would love all kinds of recipes) - please share it with me, by emailing me at dedesmith32@gmail.com. I will try it out and feature it on my blog! If you have cooking tips or anything else in regards to cooking and food - please email me!

This week's Recipe:
This was very rich and delicious! We added chocolate chips to ours and just rolled up little rolls and put them together. This was pretty time consuming so leave plenty of time - its worth it!

Pumpkin Monkey Bread
by Sweet Pea from the Newlyweds Blog

Dough
2 Tbsp unsalted butter
1/2 cup milk
2 1/4 teaspoons (1 envelope) active dry yeast
3/4 cup pumpkin puree
1/4 cup white sugar
1 tsp salt
2 1/2 cups bread flour

Filling
1 cup granulated sugar
2 tsp ground cinnamon
1/2 tsp fresh ground nutmeg
3 Tbsp unsalted butter

** I added chocolate chips

Glaze
2 Tbsp unsalted butter
1/8 cup brown sugar
1 1/2 Tbsp milk
3/4 cup powdered sugar
1/2 teaspoon vanilla

In a saucepan over medium-high heat, brown 2 tablespoons of butter, letting it bubble up and turn a dark golden brown but being careful not to allow it burn (turn black) about 2-3 minutes. Once browned, remove the pan from the heat and carefully add the milk, return to stove and heat through. Pour the milk and butter into the bowl of standing mixer (fitted with a dough hook) and allow to cool so it is no longer hot but also not cool (about 100-110 degrees F). Once it has reached a warm but not hot temperature add the yeast and 1/4 cup of sugar and allow to proof about 10 minutes. Then add the pumpkin, salt, and 1 cup of flour. Stir until combined then add the rest of the flour 1/2 cup at a time and knead for 6 minutes, until the dough is smooth and elastic and just slightly sticky. If the dough is too moist, add extra flour 1 tablespoon at a time.

Move dough to a lightly oiled bowl and cover with a clean towel. Allow to rise in a warm place for 60-90 minutes or until doubled in size.

While dough is rising, brown another 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg and mix well. Making sure sugar evenly absorbs the butter. Set aside. Next, grease and flour a 9×5 loaf pan and set aside.

When the dough has doubled in size, punch it down and flip out onto a clean floured surface and knead with hands for 1-2 minutes. Roll dough into a 20×12 inch rectangle. Evenly sprinkle the dough with the cinnamon sugar mixture and press into dough with palms of the hand. Cut the rectangle into 6 strips. Lay strips on top of each other and cut each strip into 6 even squares (cut in half then each half into thirds). Stack strips vertically into the loaf pan. Cover the pan with a clean towel and let rise for 30-45 minutes.

In the meantime preheat an oven to 350 degrees. After rising in the pan bake for 30-40 minutes or until top is a very deep golden brown.

To prepare the glaze, heat the butter, milk, and brown sugar in a small saucepan. Bring to boil then immediately remove the pan from the heat and stir in the rum and powdered sugar.

September Surprise Challenge Tonight!

2011-11-09T14:46:00.000-07:00

Please join me in the chatroom tonight at 9pm EST for a SURPRISE CHALLENGE! Don't miss out on your chance to get this great bonus!

Wednesday Sayings - 11/9/11

2011-11-09T00:00:00.003-07:00

Family History Tuesday - 11/8/11

2011-11-08T00:00:00.001-07:00

New Release Monday/Creative Inspiration 11/7/11

2011-11-07T06:27:00.012-07:00

Join me on Mondays for my new releases! Also on New Release Mondays I will be posting a Show-OffZ Call for your layouts - so please don't miss that at the bottom of this posting!

I am so excited to release FALL BLESSINGZ!
This kit actually came together pretty quickly for me! I was a bit surprised, but I like the colors and the concept of remembering your blessings at this wonderful time of year!

Go check it out in my stores here:

My Blog
3Scrapateers
Digitals
iScrapbook
MyMemories
ScrapDelicious
ScrapWow

by Dannethia

by GreenfieldOriginal

by Holly

by Janeal

by Kay

by Lorilee

by Vickie

Life 2011: Week 45

2011-11-06T22:10:00.004-07:00

Monday, October 31, 2011

Happy Halloween! My kiddos were the cutest this year. Beth was a beautiful Belle and she even had her Beast with her. JJ was Agent P and he thought his costume was the best ever - so we're pretty happy around here. I went to JJ's Halloween Parade at his school and then headed over to help out at Beth's Halloween Party in her class. I cooked up some mummy hot dogs and Mac and Cheese for dinner. I was still feeling sick today, so Joey took the kids to the mall for trick or treating and then to a couple of houses on our street. They ran into the Price's and Beth was so excited - she got to go with her friend Annie to some neighborhood trick-or-treating. JJ hung out with Joey and me. It was a good Halloween.

Tuesday, November 1, 2011

Joey has been so committed to coming home at 6pm every night. It has been a blessing and the kids are loving it. They have been doing puzzles and playing games and just being together.

Wednesday, November 2, 2011

Our pumpkins had their last lighting tonight. The kids are sad Halloween is over. They are still wearing their costumes everyday, but that works for me. JJ just loves his costume and I'm so glad that I was able to make it work. We combined their candy stashes into one bowl and it will be used as desserts/special treats when they do their chores.

Thursday, November 3, 2011

Fall Sunsets are amazing. I peeked out my bedroom window just in time to capture this. I am really suffering health wise. I can't seem to get over being sick. First it was flu, then my period, then I had a day of food poisoning, and now I don't know what's up with me. Blech.

Friday, November 4, 2011

Joey had his podcast tonight and then stayed with Pete since he has a meeting in the morning. The kids and I hung out. We ordered Pizza in and the kids watched a movie. I'm still feeling pretty yucky.

Saturday, November 5, 2011

So the Utah snowstorms have started. Orem is in a bit of a hole and we didn't have any of the snow actually stick. We have lots of yellow leaves on our lawn though. Once Joey got home, he played with the kids all day so I could get more rest. JJ started having headaches today so he isn't feeling so good either. I've got to get better so I can do a major cleaning of the house and get these viruses killed.

Sunday, November 6, 2011

Well this day couldn't have gone much worse. It began at 3am when Beth threw up. I got her in the shower, soaped her up and before we could rinse her off - a pipe broke. Joey spent the next couple of hours under the house in the freezing cold trying to fix it. He did a temporary fix, because he didn't have what he needed. We had no hot water. Beth was sick, JJ was sick, I was sick, Joey wasn't feeling too good either at this point. So at about 5 am we checked into a hotel. We all really appreciated the hot showers and we tried to rest up a little bit. We tried making it an adventure for the kids, so they wouldn't realize how frustrated Joey and I were. I think it worked because they actually had a good time. 7 hours later, we checked out and went home. Of course we had to miss church again. But Joey was able to get the parts he needed and get the pipes fixed. Joey hung out with the kids again while I rested more. I need to be a real mom again - I think I'm just going to have to buck up and make it a better week for all of us.

And here is my weekly layout:

Coming Soon!

Life 2011: Week 44

2011-11-06T22:05:00.004-07:00

Monday, October 24, 2011

I kept Beth home today from school. She was doing better, but I wanted to make sure she was at her best. We carved the kids pumpkins for Family Home Evening. Well - I carved the pumpkins anyways. The kids chose what kind of face they wanted and I did it. They were too grossed out by the innards to even do that part, but they were very happy with the results!

Tuesday, October 25, 2011

Beth was so excited to go to her friend Abby's birthday party today after school. They went to Kangaroo Zoo and had a blast. She loved bringing "Ballonie" home with her as well as a little treat bag!

Wednesday, October 26, 2011

JJ coughed all night and was pretty miserable so he hung out at home with me all day. He loved having the tv and remote control all to himself.

Thursday, October 27, 2011

It's that time of year again - soup season! I made a really yummy potato soup tonight. It was delish!

Friday, October 28, 2011

We made some fun Halloween Yarn Ball Decorations tonight. It was messy and fun. JJ had a bit of a texture issue with it though and I had to help him with his, but it was a fun Friday project! Joey and Pete went to dinner and then did their podcast.

Saturday, October 29, 2011

It took awhile, but the yarn balls finally dried and we hung them up. The kid want to do these for all the holidays now!

Sunday, October 30, 2011

We are really slacking in the going to church department lately. The sickness just keeps coming back to haunt us and we can't seem to get rid of it. Weekends have been the worst. But the kids were extremely sweet with each other today and that always makes things better.

And here is my weekly layout:

Coming Soon!

Life 2011: Week 43

2011-11-06T22:00:00.005-07:00

Monday, October 17, 2011

It's a little late in the season, but we finally decided to go on a Fall Drive up the Alpine Loop for Family Home Evening. We will have to remember to go earlier next year, but there was still some pretty yellows! It was quite chilly and the kids forgot to bring their jackets, so they were not all excited to go out and take pictures. They liked just looking at the leaves on the drive better.

Tuesday, October 18, 2011

Not much going on today just kind of a normal Fall Day. I really enjoyed looking at some of the photos I took yesterday - I think this one is my favorite.

Wednesday, October 19, 2011

I had the opportunity to spend the day in Salt Lake City with my sister and her family. I really had a fun visit with Kori and I got to hold my nephew, Dustin for awhile which was awesome! And the real reason we were there --- I got to watch my other nephew, Colby win State Cross Country! He was amazing and it was so fun to watch him cross the finish line first! Good job bud! Then I got to bring Whitnee home with me so she could hang out and play with JJ and Beth when they got home from school. It was only a couple of hours though and then her parents picked her up because they had to head home. But it was a really great day!

Thursday, October 20, 2011

I was excited to hang out with my friend Brianne this afternoon. The kids played and we just talked and I really am glad her parents live in American Fork so she comes out here once a year or so. It's good to have some time with her! Love ya Brinner! It was Joey's birthday, but he likes to keep it pretty low-key. We just had pizza and brownies and ice cream. The kids bought him a couple of DVDs as presents.

Friday, October 21, 2011

The kids are on Fall Break (yesterday and today) - and we just didn't have anything fun planned. But I did print out these fun Halloween activity books that had coloring, crafts, and other activities with it and we did a lot of that today.

Saturday, October 22, 2011

We began the day with Beth throwing up and our pipes having huge draining problems. Not a great combination. Joey spent hours trying to get things cleared up to no avail. We finally called the community manager and found out that this happens every few years. Roots clog up the drain. But he had the equipment so he took care of it and we finally have clear drains again. Yay. It made a huge mess though and our house stinks, but hopefully it will all go away soon.

Sunday, October 23, 2011

Beth and I are both sick today. JJ and Joey seem to be okay though. We didn't go to church and just hung out. Beth drew me a cute picture on her marker board.

And here is my weekly layout:

Coming Soon!

High/Low: November 4, 2011 + Freebie

2011-11-04T00:00:00.004-06:00

My LOW this Week is that I have been sick all week. I can't seem to get over it and its really bringing me down. Hopefully it will go away soon.

My HIGH for this Week is that because I've been sick I haven't felt like eating so I've lost weight! Go figure right?

I have a freebie for you today - a cluster that coordinates with my BETHIE'S ROOM. The Freebie was created by my TearZ Crew Member, Kay Carrothers. Make sure you let her know how much you enjoy it by commenting!

Have a great weekend!

DOWNLOAD LINK

Recipe Thursday - Beef Pot Pie

2011-11-03T00:00:00.002-06:00

Each Thursday, I am going to be sharing a recipe with you!
I will pick a recipe from my collection and I will be sharing where I got the recipe and everything. But I am going to include my own photo of the finished food, the original recipe, and try and share the things I changed when I made it!

I would love your help too! If you have a great recipe, especially week-night dinner recipes (but I would love all kinds of recipes) - please share it with me, by emailing me at dedesmith32@gmail.com. I will try it out and feature it on my blog! If you have cooking tips or anything else in regards to cooking and food - please email me!

This week's Recipe:
I admit, Beef Pot Pie is not my favorite. But my husband prefers it, so its good to make this every once in a while too! I changed it up this time and used 4 pie crusts and a little more ingredients and put it in a 9x13!

Beef Pot Pie
by DeDe Smith

1 tbsp vegetable oil
1 onion, chopped
minced garlic
1 green bell pepper
2 cups cooked beef, cubed or shredded (I used stew beef)
2 cups frozen mixed vegetables
2 potatoes, diced
1 envelope brown gravy mix
2 prepared refrigerated pie crusts

Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat; add onion, bell pepper, potatoes and garlic. Cook until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.

Add beef and mixed vegetables to skillet. Prepare gravy according to package directions; add to skillet. Stir gently to combine.

Fit one pastry into a 9 inch deep-dish pie pan. Spoon beef and vegetable mixture into pastry.

Top beef mixture with remaining pastry. Seal edges with a fork. Cut 3 steam vents in the crust. Bake until crust is golden and filling is bubbly, about 35 minutes.

Photoshop Upgrades for Life

2011-11-02T06:20:00.002-06:00

I just found out about this awesome giveaway! How awesome would it be to get Photoshop CS5 and get free upgrades for Life! I so want to win this one!

Click on my link HERE and you can enter to win too!

Wednesday Sayings - 11/2/11

2011-11-02T00:00:00.002-06:00

Family History Tuesday - 11/1/11

2011-11-01T00:00:00.000-06:00

Book Review: Key of Kilenya

2011-10-29T00:00:00.001-06:00

Key of Kilenya by Andrea Pearson

Book Review by DeDe Smith

eBook Purchase on Smashwords
Please visit the author's website

When two vicious wolves chase fourteen-year-old Jacob Clark down a path from our world into another, his life is forever changed. He has no idea they have been sent by the Lorkon—evil, immortal beings who are jealous of powers he doesn’t know he possesses—powers they desire to control.

The inhabitants of the new world desperately need Jacob's help in recovering a magical key that was stolen by the Lorkon and is somehow linked to him. If he helps them, his life will be at risk. But if he chooses not to help them, both our world and theirs will be in danger. The Lorkon will stop at nothing to unleash the power of the key—and Jacob's special abilities.

First of all I just have to point out that this ebook is FREE right now from Smashwords. You can download it for all types of eReaders - so go get it now! You won't regret it.

This was written as a Young Adult Fantasy novel, but here I am a 32-year-old mom/wife and I enjoyed it immensely, so I think there's something in it for everyone. My kiddos are just a bit young for this one - but I can't wait to read it to them when they are a little older.

The book starts out fast and keeps you going right up to the end. This is not a slow-mover. It puts you right in the action quickly and keeps you there. There is lots of danger and adventure and wonderful characters. I love the descriptions and the world that Andrea has created. It feels very fresh and it is exciting to have a new world to delve into. I enjoyed the kind of 2 sides to the story - as you read journal entries at the beginning of each chapter that hint at things that are revealed as you go along. It was a very fun way to interweave all the backstory! It's left open to what I think will be a few sequels and I am excited to see where it will take me! Just a very fun, creative, exciting adventure!

Disclosure: I received a copy of this novel from the publisher for review, but this did not influence my opinion.

High/Low: October 28, 2011 + Freebie

2011-10-28T00:00:00.002-06:00

My LOW this Week is that I'm just feeling a little blah. You know that feeling right? Just kind of burned out with everything.

My HIGH for this Week is that its Friday. That is all. Yep, nothing too thrilling this week.

I have a freebie for you today - a stacked paper that coordinates with my GOOGLEY EYEZ. The Freebie was created by my TearZ Crew Member, GreenfieldOriginal. Make sure you let her know how much you enjoy it by commenting!

Have a great weekend!

DOWNLOAD LINK

Recipe Thursday - Lasagna Roll-ups

2011-10-27T00:00:00.003-06:00

Each Thursday, I am going to be sharing a recipe with you!
I will pick a recipe from my collection and I will be sharing where I got the recipe and everything. But I am going to include my own photo of the finished food, the original recipe, and try and share the things I changed when I made it!

I would love your help too! If you have a great recipe, especially week-night dinner recipes (but I would love all kinds of recipes) - please share it with me, by emailing me at dedesmith32@gmail.com. I will try it out and feature it on my blog! If you have cooking tips or anything else in regards to cooking and food - please email me!

This week's Recipe:
This is a great way to make Lasagna in a lot less amount of time! I unfortunately didn't realize that I only had the no-boil noodles and so I couldn't make it work for roll-ups so I used the recipe and just layered the noodles. So you can do it either way!

Lasagna Roll-ups
by DeDe Smith

12 lasagna noodles
2 cups ricotta cheese
1 egg
parsley
2 cups shredded mozzarella, divided
8 oz Italian sausage
1 jar marinara sauce, divided

Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Cook noodles according to package directions. Drain noodles and rinse with cold water.

Mix ricotta, egg, parsley, and 1 cup mozzarella in a bowl; set aside.

Cook sausage in a skillet over medium heat until browned. Drain fat.

Spread 1/2 cup sauce in a 9x13 baking dish. Spread 3 tbsp ricotta mixture on each noodle; top with some sausage. Roll up each noodle. Arrange seam sides down in baking dish.

Top roll-ups with remaining sauce and mozzarella. Bake, loosely covered for 15 minutes. Remove cover and bake 10 minutes longer or until bubbly.

Wednesday Sayings - 10/26/11

2011-10-26T00:00:00.001-06:00

October Speed Crop - CANCELED

2011-10-25T12:00:00.000-06:00

Hey everyone - due to the flu hitting my family and other responsibilities, I'm going to have to cancel this month's speed crop. It was going to be on Wednesday. Everyone have a good little break and then I'll see you back on the 2nd Wednesday of November!

Thanks!

Family History Tuesday - 10/25/11

2011-10-25T00:00:00.000-06:00

New Release Monday/Creative Inspiration + Show-OffZ Challenge 10/24/11

2011-10-24T00:00:00.006-06:00

Join me on Mondays for my new releases! Also on New Release Mondays I will be posting a Show-OffZ Call for your layouts - so please don't miss that at the bottom of this posting!

I am so excited to release some new HALLOWEEN EXTRAS, along with releasing my past Halloween kits to all my stores!
I created some new Clusterz, Stackz, & Scatterz and some new QuickpageZ that are perfect for all of your Halloween Memories!

And of course they coordinate with my past Halloween kits!
I'm excited to add all my old Halloween products to all my stores, so make sure you check them out below and see if you have them! They will now be available in all my stores!
There are just a couple of exceptions: Not So Scary - it is only available on my blog. The BOO Word Album is not available at iScrapbook or MyMemories

So look below for all the previews to my Halloween collection and go check out all the products in my stores here:

My Blog - Halloween Collection, Boo-Bear TearZ, Googley EyeZ, MonsterZ, Not So Scary
3Scrapateers
Digitals
iScrapbook - Should be available soon!
MyMemories - Should be available soon - and there will also be a MM Template for purchase here!
ScrapDelicious
ScrapWow

Also don't miss the wonderful Halloween kit that I did with my Sister-by-Heart, Georgia - EERIE-SISTABLE!

by Dannethia

by GreenfieldOriginal

by Janeal

by Kay

Here's how it works:

Each Monday with the New Releases, I will be posting a Show-OffZ Challenge. You will have until Friday to do the challenge and if you get your layout sent in, you will receive either a coupon to my store or a specific product (each posting will tell you what you are getting)! I will share all the Show-OffZ of the Week on Saturdays!

THIS WEEK'S SHOW-OFFZ CHALLENGE:
I want you to scrap a layout about your best costume ever! You must use MY PRODUCTS ONLY to create your layout! (You can use ANY product by me!)

Email me (dedesmith32@gmail.com) a copy of your 600x600, 72dpi Layout by 10pm EST on Friday, October 28th and your layout will be shared on October 29th on my blog (it could be later depending on my time)! Please include the name that you want listed with your layout.

This week (if you participate), you will receive the GOOGLEY EYEZ: ALPHA!

Thanks and I hope you will join in the challenge and come back every other Monday for new releases and a new challenge!

High/Low: October 21, 2011 + Freebie

2011-10-21T00:00:00.003-06:00

My LOW this Week is that I have a mouth sore on the roof of my mouth and it is KILLING me. Seriously, haven't slept the last couple of nights because it hurts so much. Apparently I have a really low pain tolerance. Hopefully it will go away soon.

My HIGH for this Week is - well, actually I have 2 of them. First, I got to go and watch my nephew Colby win @ State Cross Country. It was awesome! I still can't believe he is almost 17. I think he will always be a little boy to me. I'm proud of the man he is becoming though. It was good to visit with my sister and her family.

My other high is that I got to go spend a few hours with my friend, Brianne. She lives in Massachusetts, so I don't get to see her often, but I love it when she comes out here to visit her parents and I can see her too.

I have a freebie for you today - a quickpage that coordinates with my GOOGLEY EYEZ. The Freebie was created by my TearZ Crew Member, GreenfieldOriginal. Make sure you let her know how much you enjoy it by commenting!

Have a great weekend!

DOWNLOAD LINK

Recipe Thursday - Chicken Cordon Bleu

2011-10-20T00:00:00.002-06:00

6 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
salt & pepper
ham, thin slices
swiss cheese
3 tbsp butter
1 cup seasoned bread crumbs

Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Pound chicken between heavy duty plastic wrap to 1/4 inch thickness with a meat mallet.

Sprinkle both sides of chicken with salt and pepper. Place ham slices on each chicken piece, add swiss cheese and roll up. Tuck in sides and secure with toothpicks.

Melt butter in a baking dish in the oven. Dip chicken rolls in butter and roll in bread crumbs to coat.

Arrange chicken in baking dish. Bake for 45 minutes-1 hour until chicken is cooked through.

Wednesday Sayings - 10/19/11

2011-10-19T09:25:00.001-06:00

Family History Tuesday - 10/18/11

2011-10-18T00:00:00.001-06:00

Broadcast Bloggers - KitchenAid Cutlery Set

2011-10-17T12:00:00.003-06:00

I have recently joined Broadcast Bloggers in an attempt to earn a little more money. I enjoy blogging and I try to just have a lot of different things on my blog. So I thought, why not? So, if you would rather not see these posts, just ignore them. Sorry to be a pain, but we all do what we need to right? And I promise I will only share things on here that I think is a really good deal and something that might be useful to you. If you would like to join Broadcast Bloggers - go HERE and if you would like you can input my sponsor ID (1068455) when you sign up.

So today's deal is a great KitchenAid Cutlery Set. I have been in the market for some new knives and I love KitchenAid products, so I might just have to pick this one up for myself. It's $49.99 right now until Thursday, October 20th - that's $50 off the original price. Not bad right?

Go here to get your deal.
(Full disclosure: I would make a small commission off any sales through this link.)

New Release Monday + Show-OffZ Challenge 10/17/11

2011-10-17T00:00:00.002-06:00

Join me on Mondays for my new releases! Also on New Release Mondays I will be posting a Show-OffZ Call for your layouts - so please don't miss that at the bottom of this posting!

I am happy to release DAWN OF HOPEZ!
I created this kit for my Book ScrapZ Club. This month we read "A Stolen Life" by Jaycee Dugard. A tragic story and yet Jaycee leaves you with such a feeling of inspiration and hope for life. This kit is great for all of life's experiences! I hope you enjoy it!

So look below for all the previews to this collection and go check out all the products in my stores here:

My Blog
3Scrapateers
Digitals
iScrapbook - Should be available soon!
MyMemories - I have submitted these products, along with a great template that are compatible with the MyMemories Software. Hopefully they will be available soon!
ScrapDelicious
ScrapWow

Here's how it works:

Each Monday with the New Releases, I will be posting a Show-OffZ Challenge. You will have until Friday to do the challenge and if you get your layout sent in, you will receive either a coupon to my store or a specific product (each posting will tell you what you are getting)! I will share all the Show-OffZ of the Week on Saturdays!

THIS WEEK'S SHOW-OFFZ CHALLENGE:
I want you to scrap about a special HAPPY MOMENT in your life! You must use MY PRODUCTS ONLY to create your layout! (You can use ANY product by me!)

Email me (dedesmith32@gmail.com) a copy of your 600x600, 72dpi Layout by 10pm EST on Friday, October 21st and your layout will be shared on October 22nd on my blog (it could be later depending on my time)! Please include the name that you want listed with your layout.

This week (if you participate), you will receive the Dawn of HopeZ: Alpha!

Thanks and I hope you will join in the challenge and come back every other Monday for new releases and a new challenge!

Life 2011: Week 42

2011-10-16T22:00:00.003-06:00

Monday, October 10, 2011

We got to go to Hee Haw Farms with Beth's Girl Scout Troop today. The kids played on the slides and fun swings. They got to see some farm animals and go on a little animal ride. Then they got to go on 2 hay rides. One was a trick or treat ride and they got to see Spiderman, Tigger, Pooh, Darth Vader, and some other characters who gave them candy. Then the 2nd ride was to the pumpkin patch, where the kids picked out some great pumpkins to take home. It was fun to be with the kids!

Tuesday, October 11, 2011

We finally got JJ's haircut today - he has really needed it for awhile.

Wednesday, October 12, 2011

We have really gone on a lot of outings lately and the kids have really had fun. Today we went with JJ's scout troop to the Fire Station. The firefighters had all kinds of demonstrations and fun for the kids. Smokey the Bear turned up too! We even got to see the Fire Fighters put out a real big fire (all controlled of course) - it was great. I ran into my cousin Jenny and her kids and it was fun to visit with her for a few moments.

Thursday, October 13, 2011

JJ wanted to be Agent P (His very favorite character right now) from Phineas and Ferb for Halloween this year. When I looked around, I didn't find much in costumes to purchase for this, so we decided to make our own. I couldn't find the exact color of sweats/hooded sweatshrits, so we went with a Dark Green. I found a great hat for him and a foam beak. But I knew that I would actually have to make the tail. I don't sew and I didn't even own a sewing machine. So I looked around and found a good deal on a Sew Mini Machine and purchased it and then I took some felt and sewed it together for his Platypus tail. It's definitely not perfect, but I was kind of excited that I actually sewed something! And JJ loved it. He makes a cute Agent P!

Friday, October 14, 2011

There's nothing better than snuggling down and reading books in bed. I still love seeing Beth enjoying reading so much!

Saturday, October 15, 2011

We had our annual Family Photo Shoot today and I was so excited to have Maria do our pictures. We went to a great location - the Provo Orchard/Castle on the Utah State Hospital grounds. We arrived a bit early - since I'm a little OCD about times - and it was so fun to see all the deer hanging around the orchard. I can't wait to see how our pictures turned out! Joey got to go see the Courageous movie with a friend. I can tell that it really had a huge impact on him and I'm glad he got to go. He's been having such a hard time lately with some computer problems, gout, and work issues. I'm a bit worried about him and I hope things turn around for him.

Sunday, October 16, 2011

My brother went to Orderville this weekend and so he stopped on his way back to Logan and brought me more meat! We were running way low, so it was awesome to have him bring us more. Thank goodness for my parents and their willingness to provide this for us. I love the way its prepared by Ray's family and its just a blessing!

And here is my weekly layout:

Coming Soon!

High/Low: October 14, 2011 + Freebie

2011-10-14T00:00:00.002-06:00

My LOW this Week is that I'm still feeling a little BLAH with life. But I'm sure that it will have to go away eventually. LOL

My HIGH for this Week is that I got to go on 2 fun outings with the kids! First for Girl Scouts we went to Hee Haw Farms and we had 2 fun hay rides and other fun. We brought home 2 pumpkins that we will probably carve next week. Then, for Cub Scouts we went to the Fire Station and we got to see lots of demonstrations. Fun Fun Fun

I have a freebie for you today - a cluster that coordinates with my GOOGLEY EYEZ. The Freebie was created by my TearZ Crew Member, GreenfieldOriginal. Make sure you let her know how much you enjoy it by commenting!

Have a great weekend!

DOWNLOAD LINK

Recipe Thursday - Salisbury Steak

2011-10-13T00:00:00.002-06:00

Each Thursday, I am going to be sharing a recipe with you!
I will pick a recipe from my collection and I will be sharing where I got the recipe and everything. But I am going to include my own photo of the finished food, the original recipe, and try and share the things I changed when I made it!

I would love your help too! If you have a great recipe, especially week-night dinner recipes (but I would love all kinds of recipes) - please share it with me, by emailing me at dedesmith32@gmail.com. I will try it out and feature it on my blog! If you have cooking tips or anything else in regards to cooking and food - please email me!

This week's Recipe:
I love Salisbury Steak. I grew up eating the frozen ones and loving it. But I thought it was high time that I tried to make it for real! It turned out delicious!

Salisbury Steak
by DeDe Smith

1 (10 1/2 ounce) can campbells French onion soup
Beef Broth
1 Brown Gravy Mix
1 can cream of mushroom soup
6 cube steaks
1/2 cup dry breadcrumbs
1 egg
salt & pepper
Garlic
Onion
1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
3 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
1/2 teaspoon mustard powder
1/4 cup water

Beat egg in a small bowl. Put breadcrumbs in another small bowl. Drench steaks in egg and then cover with breadcrumbs.

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown both sides of patties with onion and garlic. Sprinkle patties with salt & pepper.

Pour off excess fat.

In a small bowl, blend flour, soups, broth, and gravy mix until smooth.

Mix in water, Worcestershire sauce and mustard powder.

Put steaks in a foil-lined pan and pour sauce over the top.

Cover, and cook for 30 minutes at 375 degrees, stirring occasionally.

Wednesday Sayings - 10/12/11

2011-10-12T00:00:00.001-06:00

October Book ScrapZ Crop!!!

2011-10-11T14:04:00.002-06:00

REMINDER: Tomorrow night (Oct 12th at 9pm EST) - is our BOOK SCRAPZ NIGHT! So I hope you have had the chance to read A Stolen Life by Jaycee Dugard and that you will come chat with us! If you haven't read the book but would like to hear about it - please join us!!! And you'll get a great bracket page as a freebie and a challenge to earn a free kit - DAWN OF HOPEZ! So please come!

Family History Tuesday - 10/11/11

2011-10-11T00:00:00.000-06:00

Life 2011: Week 41

2011-10-09T22:00:00.005-06:00

Monday, October 3, 2011

There's nothing like warm chocolate chip cookies, especially after a day at school. The kids loved coming home to these!

Tuesday, October 4, 2011

It rained all night and was very cold. We got a call that Beth's field trip was canceled and she was so disappointed. I got her off on the bus and was doing some exercising, when I got the call that the weather had cleared up and that the field trip was still on. So I rushed to get dressed and headed down to the school and was just in time to walk with the kids to PumpkinLand. It's so fun that it's so close to Beth's school. It was fun to be with Beth and get to know her classmates just a little bit. I enjoyed watching Beth play. It ended up being the warmest day of the week.

Wednesday, October 5, 2011

We have had a cold front here in Utah all week and its been a lot darker in the mornings. After I walked the kids down to the bus stop and got them off to school, I felt like walking. So I walked around for about 1/2 hour, enjoying the silence and time to myself. It felt incredibly early since the street lamps were still glowing. It was just a very beautiful morning - I love it when its overcast. Later, I did some shopping and got to go to Olive Garden for lunch with Joey. A really good day.

Thursday, October 6, 2011

So cold this week. It really does feel more like winter than fall. Today was the perfect day for a little hot chocolate, raman, and some family movie time! It's that time of year when we watch Nightmare Before Christmas a few times! :)

Friday, October 7, 2011

I was excited to see a beautiful yellow leaf on my lawn today. It seems like the trees around where we live, always start to change colors a little later than the others.

Saturday, October 8, 2011

We went to see Dolphin Tale as a family today and we all loved it. A great emotional story and family show. Later we got to have Mallory come and be with us for awhile. She's so adorable and it was so fun to watch HER watch Tangled. She made us all laugh when she got the giggles throughout the movie. So cute!

Sunday, October 9, 2011

Joey had had a gout attack this week and so he has spent most of his time at home. I hate that he's having such pain, but it has been nice to have him home all week with me. He was able to get into work a little bit this week and his brother helped him move to his new office space. It looks like we are going to have a rough fall every year, as that is when his gout attacks seem to happen. Joey is sporting some of JJ's Halloween costume that I bought this week! I love seeing his bright blue eyes popping out!

We got to go to a baby blessing today. My friend Brianne, blessed her Isaac today. It was great to see her and great to see her new little boy. Joey's mom also showed up today to spend the night so it was fun to have her with us too. A very eventful day.

And here is my weekly layout:

Coming Soon!

Book Review: Sleight of Hand

2011-10-08T00:00:00.003-06:00

Sleight of Hand by Deanne Blackhurst

Book Review by DeDe Smith

eBook Purchase on Smashwords
Please visit the author's website

Sleight of Hand is the story of Daniel a con man who dies and goes to hell. But unlike his expectation of a barren world with fire and brimstone, he is taken by his spirit guide Jonah to a beautiful cabin located in the mountains.

Is it possible to con your way out of hell? Fifty-two year old Daniel Cabrero thinks so and why wouldn’t he? That’s how he spent his entire life. But Jonah his spirit guide has reasons of his own for making sure Daniel pays for all the suffering and misery he’s caused others. Still sometimes people can change, even in hell. And maybe Daniel can keep his son from following the same path.

What an interesting read! I don't think I have ever read a book like this one, but I'm glad I did. I really enjoyed the creative approach to the afterworld and I liked the very descriptive way that the author created every scene. I loved that the Wasteland was a lot like earth, except for no people and how lonely and miserable it can be even though it was beautiful. I especially enjoyed the concept that the things we do on earth affects others and that you will have to pay for your mistakes; but that you can find redemption if you truly want to. I also like that no matter what faith you are, you can find something you can relate to and it gives you a lot to consider. Daniel was a very believable character and although I don't agree with what he did, I came to like him as he truly repented of his mistakes.

I do wish we could have delved more into Jonah's character. I came away not really sure what was going on with him and I would have liked to understand him more.

It's not exactly an upbeat book, but I enjoyed it and I feel like it has me thinking about a few things differently than before. I encourage you to pick up this book with an open mind and you just might find some redeeming qualities!

Disclosure: I received a copy of this novel from the publisher for review, but this did not influence my opinion.

High/Low: October 7, 2011 + Freebie

2011-10-07T00:00:00.003-06:00

My LOW this Week is that I am still overcoming a bit of depression/anxiety. I'm determined to get through this - but it is challenging sometimes. Its really hard to get anything done, but I'm working on it!

My HIGH for this Week is that I am just so proud of my daughter. I went to her parent teacher conference this week and she's just doing so well. They did some testing and she's right where she needs to be in Math, but in Reading she scored 37 points over what she should be and is reading books a few levels up than what is average too. She is just great at the reading/comprehension, etc. and I'm just so proud of her!

I'm excited to bring you something special every Friday. As you know I have been providing a freebie every Friday for a long time now. I love the chance to provide you all with a little something extra from my kits, but to be truthful I have had a hard time with getting the freebies done every month. So I have found a solution that I think is going to work great! I have enlisted my Creative Team - the wonderful TearZ Crew - and they will be creating some wonderful freebies for you from my kits! I will offer one every Friday like usual! I really appreciate their help and I appreciate your support! I hope you'll make sure to leave a comment for them!

I have a freebie for you today - a cluster that coordinates with my GOOGLEY EYEZ. The Freebie was created by my TearZ Crew Member, GreenfieldOriginal. Make sure you let her know how much you enjoy it by commenting!

Have a great weekend!

DOWNLOAD LINK

Digitals Birthday Bash 7 - Day 7

2011-10-06T22:00:00.002-06:00

WELCOME TO OUR BIRTHDAY BLOG BLOWOUT!

Today is our last day of our Blog Train and our Celebration! I hope everyone is enjoying the Digitals Birthday Bash 7! Don't forget to check out all the happenings in the BIRTHDAY BASH THREAD.

REMEMBER MY DOWNLOADS WILL ONLY BE AVAILABLE FOR 24 HOURS STARTING AT MIDNIGHT EST EACH DAY! After BB7 is over my freebies will be packaged all together and sold in my stores!

Visit each of the blogs below to get your treats:

Alessandra Designs
Amanda Thorderson
DeDe Smith <--YOU ARE HERE
Diana Burton
Elka Romero
Kathryn Estry
Kristmess
MC-Designs
Maddy Fernandez
Nini's Notions
Pati Araujo
Paula Yagisawa
Silvia Romeo

I would love to hear from you - so please feel free to ask questions and leave comments!

Here is the complete preview for FUN MASKZ!

Here's the piece you get today!
Enjoy and thanks for coming!

DOWNLOAD LINK

Recipe Thursday - Twice Baked Potatoes + Potato Skins

2011-10-06T00:00:00.005-06:00

Each Thursday, I am going to be sharing a recipe with you!
I will pick a recipe from my collection and I will be sharing where I got the recipe and everything. But I am going to include my own photo of the finished food, the original recipe, and try and share the things I changed when I made it!

I would love your help too! If you have a great recipe, especially week-night dinner recipes (but I would love all kinds of recipes) - please share it with me, by emailing me at dedesmith32@gmail.com. I will try it out and feature it on my blog! If you have cooking tips or anything else in regards to cooking and food - please email me!

This week's Recipe:
These are so delicious! They make the perfect side dish to any meat. (Try it with next week's Salisbury Steak Recipe!) Plus use the tops as a great Potato Skin hors d'oeuvres!

Twice Baked Potatoes
by DeDe Smith

6 large baking potatoes
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup sour cream
2 tbsp butter
2 tsp onion salt
2 tsp garlic salt
salt & pepper
Grated Cheese
Parsley

Preheat oven to 500 degrees. Microwave potatoes on high for 10 minutes. Bake in oven until tender, about 30 minutes. Cut off top of each potato (See bottom of this post for a great way to use up the tops of these potatoes.)

Scoop Flesh from potatoes into a medium bowl, reserving shells. Add cream cheese, sour cream and butter to potato flesh.

Beat potato mixture with a mixer set at medium speed until smooth and creamy. Add onion, garlic, salt, and pepper.

Spoon potato mixture into potato shells. Sprinkle with cheese. Reduce oven temperature to 350 degrees and bake until cheese melts and potatoes are heated through, about 15 minutes.

Potato Skins:
Leftover Tops from the Potatoes
Olive Oil
Season Salt
Bacon
Cheese

Cut leftover tops into wedges. Coat with oil and season salt. Top with Bacon and Cheese and bake until golden!

Digitals Birthday Bash 7 - Day 6

2011-10-05T22:00:00.001-06:00

WELCOME TO OUR BIRTHDAY BLOG BLOWOUT!

I hope everyone is enjoying the Digitals Birthday Bash 7! Don't forget to check out all the happenings in the BIRTHDAY BASH THREAD.

Digitals is so excited to present our blog train! The following Digitals designers will be showering you with gifts on their blogs from October 1-7th. Make sure you visit everyday so you don't miss a thing!

REMEMBER MY DOWNLOADS WILL ONLY BE AVAILABLE FOR 24 HOURS STARTING AT MIDNIGHT EST EACH DAY! After BB7 is over my freebies will be packaged all together and sold in my stores!

Visit each of the blogs below to get your treats:

Alessandra Designs
Amanda Thorderson
DeDe Smith <--YOU ARE HERE
Diana Burton
Elka Romero
Kathryn Estry
Kristmess
MC-Designs
Maddy Fernandez
Nini's Notions
Pati Araujo
Paula Yagisawa
Silvia Romeo

Now let's talk about MY FREEBIES for this week! This year's Birthday Bash theme is POINT AND SHOOT and we are focusing on photography! So, I have created some FUN MASKZ that I hope you will be able to use and enjoy! I'll give out 1 photo mask everyday from October 1-7th! So keep coming back and I hope you enjoy your time here on my blog!

I would love to hear from you - so please feel free to ask questions and leave comments!

Here is the complete preview for FUN MASKZ!

Here's the piece you get today!
Enjoy and please come back tomorrow!

DOWNLOAD LINK

Wednesday Sayings - 10/5/11

2011-10-05T00:00:00.001-06:00

Digitals Birthday Bash 7 - Day 5

2011-10-04T22:00:00.004-06:00

Family History Tuesday - 10/4/11

2011-10-04T00:00:00.002-06:00

Digitals Birthday Bash 7 - Day 4

2011-10-03T22:00:00.002-06:00

WELCOME TO OUR BIRTHDAY BLOG BLOWOUT!

I hope everyone is enjoying the Digitals Birthday Bash 7! Don't forget to check out all the happenings in the BIRTHDAY BASH THREAD.

Digitals is so excited to present our blog train! The following Digitals designers will be showering you with gifts on their blogs from October 1-7th. Make sure you visit everyday so you don't miss a thing!

REMEMBER MY DOWNLOADS WILL ONLY BE AVAILABLE FOR 24 HOURS STARTING AT MIDNIGHT EST EACH DAY! After BB7 is over my freebies will be packaged all together and sold in my stores!

Visit each of the blogs below to get your treats:

Alessandra Designs
Amanda Thorderson
DeDe Smith <--YOU ARE HERE
Diana Burton
Elka Romero
Kathryn Estry
Kristmess
MC-Designs
Maddy Fernandez
Nini's Notions
Pati Araujo
Paula Yagisawa
Silvia Romeo

Before we get to the freebies, let me just say that you really need to check out MY STORE during the Birthday Bash Week. There's the 30% store-wide sale going - but because I'm the featured designer right now my products are 40% off until October 4th! Take advantage of it now! Also don't forget to pick up the daily download!

Now let's talk about MY FREEBIES for this week! This year's Birthday Bash theme is POINT AND SHOOT and we are focusing on photography! So, I have created some FUN MASKZ that I hope you will be able to use and enjoy! I'll give out 1 photo mask everyday from October 1-7th! So keep coming back and I hope you enjoy your time here on my blog!

I would love to hear from you - so please feel free to ask questions and leave comments!

Here is the complete preview for FUN MASKZ!

Here's the piece you get today!
Enjoy and please come back tomorrow!

Sorry this link has expired.

Last Days of my 40% off Sale

2011-10-03T01:34:00.000-06:00

I am so excited to be the current Digitals Featured Designer during our BB7 Celebration! (Until October 4th)

I just wanted to remind you that my products are on sale 40% off in my Digitals Store, so I hope you will take advantage of it! Make sure you go to the homepage and read my interview too. And don't miss the last days of my great daily download!

It of course coordinates with my new INTO THE WOODZ Collection - so make sure you see it all and its the perfect time to purchase it at a great deal!

Thank you so much for your support!

Digitals Birthday Bash 7 - Day 3

2011-10-02T22:00:00.003-06:00

WELCOME TO OUR BIRTHDAY BLOG BLOWOUT!

I hope everyone is enjoying the Digitals Birthday Bash 7! Don't forget to check out all the happenings in the BIRTHDAY BASH THREAD.

Digitals is so excited to present our blog train! The following Digitals designers will be showering you with gifts on their blogs from October 1-7th. Make sure you visit everyday so you don't miss a thing!

REMEMBER MY DOWNLOADS WILL ONLY BE AVAILABLE FOR 24 HOURS STARTING AT MIDNIGHT EST EACH DAY! After BB7 is over my freebies will be packaged all together and sold in my stores!

Visit each of the blogs below to get your treats:

Alessandra Designs
Amanda Thorderson
DeDe Smith <--YOU ARE HERE
Diana Burton
Elka Romero
Kathryn Estry
Kristmess
MC-Designs
Maddy Fernandez
Nini's Notions
Pati Araujo
Paula Yagisawa
Silvia Romeo

Before we get to the freebies, let me just say that you really need to check out MY STORE during the Birthday Bash Week. There's the 30% store-wide sale going - but because I'm the featured designer right now my products are 40% off until October 4th! Take advantage of it now! Also don't forget to pick up the daily download!

Now let's talk about MY FREEBIES for this week! This year's Birthday Bash theme is POINT AND SHOOT and we are focusing on photography! So, I have created some FUN MASKZ that I hope you will be able to use and enjoy! I'll give out 1 photo mask everyday from October 1-7th! So keep coming back and I hope you enjoy your time here on my blog!

I would love to hear from you - so please feel free to ask questions and leave comments!

Here is the complete preview for FUN MASKZ!

Here's the piece you get today!
Enjoy and please come back tomorrow!

Sorry this link has expired.

Life 2011: Week 40

2011-10-02T21:00:00.004-06:00

Monday, September 26, 2011

I am not much of a decorator. The kids think its so much fun though, so when I was out shopping today, I picked up a couple of Halloween decorations that was in the Target Dollar Section. The kids thought they were awesome!

Tuesday, September 27, 2011

We had a scheduling conflict tonight so Joey and I divided and conquered. Joey took Beth to her last soccer game of the Fall Season, where she scored her 2nd goal! Yay! And I took JJ to pack meeting where he earned his Bear Badge. I'm so proud of both of the kids!

Wednesday, September 28, 2011

So I had forgotten that Joey's mom was coming today so it was a nice surprise to open the door and there she was. We had a nice visit all afternoon and the kids were SO EXCITED to see her when they got home from school. They enjoyed playing with her the rest of the day and it was nice to have her take them to play outside while I had my crop. She took us and Uncle Aaron to dinner at Red Robins too, so it was nice to have another break from cooking dinner.

Thursday, September 29, 2011

So I splurged and bought a box of each of the Halloween cereals and surprised the kids with them. They loved it - we have never purchased them before. The kids are already getting so excited about Halloween.

Friday, September 30, 2011

Okay, I'm such a geek, but I have anxiously been awaiting the new "Pottermore" website from JK Rowling. I was so excited to be chosen as one of the million people who get to enjoy the beta version of the site before it is officially released sometime in October. The site has been crazy busy, so I can't always get on, but I have enjoyed what I have done so far. So fun!

Saturday, October 1, 2011

For General Conference this year, I wanted to find something that would occupy the kids, and hopefully help them listen and learn better. So I printed out some Conference Packets and surprised the kids with a little bucket of scissors, crayons, glue, pencils, and treats. They were excited and spent all morning/afternoon happily using it all. I hope they got something from conference!

Unfortunately, I overscheduled myself and had to host a crop during a little of conference. Digitals is celebration their 7th birthday and we had a great chat, but it was a little difficult to listen to conference, wrangle the kids, and host a crop at the same time. Unfortunately, Joey is suffering from a gout attack in his foot the past few days and it has been pretty miserable for him. Thank goodness for a laid back weekend.

Sunday, October 2, 2011

We were excited to have Lane join us for the morning session of General Conference. The kids were THRILLED to have him there. We enjoyed conference and a wonderful lunch before he headed to Payson to be with Cody & Becki & Mallory for the last session. We enjoyed a wonderful Sunday in our Pajamas listening to our church leaders.

This Conference I especially enjoyed hearing from the Prophet, President Uchtdorf (The Forget Me Nots talk from the Relief Society Meeting) and Elder Bednar (on Family History). There is so much I need to recommit myself to and I hope that I can remember the spirit that I felt.

And here is my weekly layout:

Coming Soon!

Digitals Birthday Bash 7 - Day 2

2011-10-01T22:00:00.002-06:00

WELCOME TO OUR BIRTHDAY BLOG BLOWOUT!

I hope everyone is enjoying the Digitals Birthday Bash 7! Don't forget to check out all the happenings in the BIRTHDAY BASH THREAD.

Digitals is so excited to present our blog train! The following Digitals designers will be showering you with gifts on their blogs from October 1-7th. Make sure you visit everyday so you don't miss a thing!

REMEMBER MY DOWNLOADS WILL ONLY BE AVAILABLE FOR 24 HOURS STARTING AT MIDNIGHT EST EACH DAY! After BB7 is over my freebies will be packaged all together and sold in my stores!

Visit each of the blogs below to get your treats:

Alessandra Designs
Amanda Thorderson
DeDe Smith <--YOU ARE HERE
Diana Burton
Elka Romero
Kathryn Estry
Kristmess
MC-Designs
Maddy Fernandez
Nini's Notions
Pati Araujo
Paula Yagisawa
Silvia Romeo

Before we get to the freebies, let me just say that you really need to check out MY STORE during the Birthday Bash Week. There's the 30% store-wide sale going - but because I'm the featured designer right now my products are 40% off until October 4th! Take advantage of it now! Also don't forget to pick up the daily download!

Now let's talk about MY FREEBIES for this week! This year's Birthday Bash theme is POINT AND SHOOT and we are focusing on photography! So, I have created some FUN MASKZ that I hope you will be able to use and enjoy! I'll give out 1 photo mask everyday from October 1-7th! So keep coming back and I hope you enjoy your time here on my blog!

I would love to hear from you - so please feel free to ask questions and leave comments!

Here is the complete preview for FUN MASKZ!

Here's the piece you get today!
Enjoy and please come back tomorrow!

Sorry this link has expired.

Book Review: All That Was Promised

2011-10-01T00:00:00.005-06:00

All That Was Promised by Vickie Hall

Book Review by DeDe Smith

Purchase on Amazon
Please visit the author's website
Please visit the author's blog

When a Methodist minister meets a Mormon missionary, his life is changed forever. But this new convert soon finds himself struggling to recognize the promised blessings of the gospel when violent persecution shakes the fledgling Church in Wales. Told with passion and heart, this triumphant tale is guaranteed to uplift and inspire.

I'm so excited to be able to introduce this great book to you! It was really a wonderful read, especially for those of you in the LDS Faith, like me.

First of all, I LOVED the cover. Maybe its just because I am a designer and a visual person, but it definitely made me want to pick it up and read it. Great colors, great font choice, great imagery, just beautiful.

Inside the book, you will find a wonderful tale of courageous people, who are faced with persecutions as early members of the church. We often hear about the challenges of so many pioneers in the early days of the church and its an amazing reminder of the blessings that we have today. I really enjoyed all the wonderful details of the Welch culture from the descriptions of the landscape to the down-to-earth people to the language and even to certain meals that they would prepare. It was so interesting to pick up on some words in the Welsh language and to hear of their traditions and I loved the food descriptions.

This book was so easy to read and it went by too quickly. The characters were wonderful and I hope to see a sequel! I just can't say enough good about it! I hope you all will pick up this book that is full of challenges, and yet you feel the hope and the faith of these wonderful characters and it leaves you with a stronger testimony. Thank you Vickie Hall for the opportunity that I had to read this book!

Disclosure: I received a copy of this novel from the publisher for review, but this did not influence my opinion.