tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-66983712024-03-07T17:56:06.571-05:00Life as I See ItFinding myself in the midst of army life and motherhood.Rachel C. Clayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01557223908799385917noreply@blogger.comBlogger87125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6698371.post-65544326952824474042011-06-06T13:24:00.000-04:002011-06-06T13:25:08.094-04:00Shutterfly Makes me Happy!<div class="sflyProductPreviewWidget" style="width:425px; height:494px;"><div class="sflyProductPreviewWidgetTop" style="height:6px; background-image:url(http://cdn.staticsfly.com/img_/share/preview/msc/widget/top.gif);"></div><div class="sflyProductPreviewWidgetCenter" style="height:482px; padding: 0 6px 0 6px; background-image:url(http://cdn.staticsfly.com/img_/share/preview/msc/widget/bg.gif); background-repeat:repeat-y;"><div class="sflyProductPreviewLogo" style="width: 105px; height: 34px; padding: 14px 0 0 14px;"><img src="http://cdn.staticsfly.com/img_/share/preview/msc/widget/logo.gif" /></div><div class="sflyProductPreviewContainer" style="height:350px; text-align:center; padding: 0;"><a href="http://share.shutterfly.com/action/welcome?sid=1AasmTRu3aMXtw&cid=SFLYOCWIDGET&eid=118"><img src="http://images-community.shutterfly.com/prs/v1/1AasmTRu3aMb/1AasmTRu3aMbYQc/p/67b0de21b3127d902548/JPEG/1307381046000/0/" /></a></div><div class="sflyProductPreviewMessageContainer" style="height:55px; background-color:#f4f4e9; text-align:center; padding: 15px 0 15px 0; line-height: 19px;"><div class="sflyProductPreviewTitle" style="font-family: arial, sans-seris; font-size: 15px; color: #333333; font-weight: bold;"><span>5x7 Folded Card</span></div><div class="sflyProductPreviewViewCollection" style="font-family: arial, sans-seris; font-size: 13px; color: #333333;"><span>View the entire <a href="http://www.shutterfly.com/cards-stationery" style="color: #6666cc;">collection</a> of cards.</span></div></div></div><div class="sflyProductPreviewWidgetBottom" style="height:6px; background-image:url(http://cdn.staticsfly.com/img_/share/preview/msc/widget/bottom.gif);"></div></div>Rachel C. Clayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01557223908799385917noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6698371.post-70811991265745299032010-10-26T17:42:00.000-04:002010-10-26T17:43:08.639-04:00Another Shutterfly Creation!<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial, helvetica, clean, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; line-height: 13px; white-space: pre-wrap; "><div class="sflyProductPreviewWidget" style="width:425px; height:494px;"><div class="sflyProductPreviewWidgetTop" style="height:6px; background-image:url(http://cdn.staticsfly.com/img_/share/preview/msc/widget/top.gif);"></div><div class="sflyProductPreviewWidgetCenter" style="height:482px; padding: 0 6px 0 6px; background-image:url(http://cdn.staticsfly.com/img_/share/preview/msc/widget/bg.gif); background-repeat:repeat-y;"><div class="sflyProductPreviewLogo" style="width: 105px; height: 34px; padding: 14px 0 0 14px;"><img src="http://cdn.staticsfly.com/img_/share/preview/msc/widget/logo.gif" /></div><div class="sflyProductPreviewContainer" style="height:350px; text-align:center; padding: 0;"><a href="http://www.shutterfly.com/cards-stationery"><img src="http://images-community.shutterfly.com/prs/v1/1AasmTRu3aMb/1AasmTRu3aMbeP/p/67b0de21b3127d902548/JPEG/1288129287000/0/" /></a></div><div class="sflyProductPreviewMessageContainer" style="height:55px; background-color:#f4f4e9; text-align:center; padding: 15px 0 15px 0; line-height: 19px;"><div class="sflyProductPreviewTitle" style="font-family: arial, sans-seris; font-size: 15px; color: #333333; font-weight: bold;"><span>Classic Cherry Thank You Card</span></div><div class="sflyProductPreviewSEOText" style="font-family: arial, sans-seris; font-size: 13px; color: #333333;"><span>Make a statement with Shutterfly <a href="http://www.shutterfly.com/cards-stationery/thank-you-cards" style="color: #6666cc;">custom thank you cards</a>.</span></div><div class="sflyProductPreviewViewCollection" style="font-family: arial, sans-seris; font-size: 13px; color: #333333;"><span>View the entire <a href="http://www.shutterfly.com/cards-stationery" style="color: #6666cc;">collection</a> of cards.</span></div></div></div><div class="sflyProductPreviewWidgetBottom" style="height:6px; background-image:url(http://cdn.staticsfly.com/img_/share/preview/msc/widget/bottom.gif);"></div></div></span>Rachel C. Clayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01557223908799385917noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6698371.post-29232949862697952812010-10-22T21:22:00.005-04:002010-10-22T22:03:49.368-04:00Making My Life Easier this Holiday Season: Shutterfly Style<!--StartFragment--> <p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';"> As many of you know by December of this year I will be 9 months pregnant.</span></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';"> </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';">If you’ve ever been pregnant, you know that the last trimester can be anything but comfortable.</span></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';"> </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';">So foremost on my mind as I look towards the holidays:</span></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';"> </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';">“How can I make my life easier this Christmas????”</span></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';"> </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';">One way I plan to make my life easier…creating a Shutterfly photocard for the holidays.</span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';"> </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';">Traditionally I am a scrapbooker, and I love making holiday cards.</span></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';"> </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';">But do you know how long it takes to make Christmas cards?</span></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';"> </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';">It’s not an easy task and with a very active toddler and</span></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';"> a </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';">baby on the way, there is no guarantee I will get anything made this year.</span></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';"> </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';">So I am getting a headstart on the Christmas cards.</span></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';"> </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';">I’ve got a photoshoot scheduled for November, and I have already begun </span></span><a href="http://www.shutterfly.com/cards-stationery"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';">browsing the Shutterfly website for card ideas</span></span></a></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';">.</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';"><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';"> </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';">Every time look at the products on </span></span><a href="http://www.shutterfly.com/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';">Shutterfly</span></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';"> </span></span></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';">I am impressed by their up-to-date style and quality.</span></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';"> </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';">I love using photos to tell stories.</span></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';"> </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';">As I browsed this year's collection of </span></span><a href="http://www.shutterfly.com/cards-stationery/christmas-cards"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';">Christmas cards</span></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#0020F6;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="text-decoration: underline;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';"> </span></span></span></span></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';">I realized how influenced I was by wanting to tell a story.</span></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';"> I am very excited that this year t</span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';">hey have some exciting 5x7 folded options that allow you to include pictures and short paragraphs on the inside of your card—no need to write a holiday letter, just put it right on the card!</span></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';"> Most of these designs include only one picture on the front, </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';">BUT the insides all included 4 pictures, so I will still get a total of five pictures in my card.</span></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';"> </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';">Some of my favorites in this design were “</span></span><a href="http://www.shutterfly.com/cards-stationery/cards-stationery/sweet-holly-story-christmas-5x7-folded-card?sortType=1&storeNode=93476&fc=2"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';">Sweet Holly Story</span></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';">,” “</span></span><a href="http://www.shutterfly.com/cards-stationery/cards-stationery/joyous-holiday-story-christmas-5x7-folded-card?sortType=1&storeNode=93476&fc=2"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';">Joyous Holiday Story</span></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';">,” and “</span></span><a href="http://www.shutterfly.com/cards-stationery/cards-stationery/most-wonderful-story-christmas-5x7-folded-card?sortType=1&storeNode=93476&fc=2"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';">Most Wonderful Story</span></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';">.”</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';"><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';"> </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';">I should also admit, that I enjoy looking at the sample pictures on the cards. I am also finding them very helpful as I think about my upcoming photoshoot with Nathan and Thomas. "</span></span><a href="http://www.shutterfly.com/cards-stationery/cards-stationery/starlight-snowflakes-christmas-card-5x7-flat?sortType=1&storeNode=93476&fc=1"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';">Starlight Snowflakes</span></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';">" caught my eye because of the cutest little girl on the cover. I think a close up of Thomas would be adorable on this one as well (though I doubt we will have snow in the background!)</span></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';"> Another design I liked, </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';"> “</span></span><a href="http://www.shutterfly.com/cards-stationery/cards-stationery/mod-ornaments-holiday-card-5x7-flat?sortType=1&storeNode=93476&fc=1"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';">Mod Ornaments</span></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';">,” requires some extra space on the right side of the card for the design, so the focal point of the picture needs to be on the left side. I definitely want to have some of these things in mind to let the photographer know before the shoot. This way I will be more likely to have a great photo to fit my card.</span></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';"> </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';"><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';"> </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';">Finally, Shutterfly has a lot of adorable 5x5 photocards this year.</span></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';"> </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';">My favorites were the “</span></span><a href="http://www.shutterfly.com/cards-stationery/cards-stationery/classic-red-square-christmas-card?sortType=1&storeNode=93476&fc=1"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';">Classic Red Square</span></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';">” and the “</span></span><a href="http://www.shutterfly.com/cards-stationery/cards-stationery/believe-in-magic-religious-christmas-card?sortType=1&storeNode=93476&fc=1"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';">Believe in Magi</span></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';">c” card (which would be perfect for a new baby!)</span></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';"> </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';">Unfortunately, these cards require extra postage, so you’ll have to decide if that works for you.</span></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';"> </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';"><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';"> </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';">If you also plan to throw a holiday get-together this year check out the </span></span><a href="http://www.shutterfly.com/cards-stationery/christmas-invitations"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';">invitations</span></span></a><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';"> section</span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';">.</span></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';"> </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';">You can also find lots of great Thank You cards in the </span></span><a href="http://www.shutterfly.com/cards-stationery"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';">stationary section</span></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';">. </span></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';"> </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';">I'm excited to create my photocards, and more excited after checking out my options on Shutterfly!</span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><span><a href="http://www.shutterfly.com/cards-stationery"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';">Currently </span></span></a></span><i><span><a href="http://www.shutterfly.com/cards-stationery"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';">Shutterfly is offering 20% off all holiday cards! </span></span></a></span></i></p> <!--EndFragment-->Rachel C. Clayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01557223908799385917noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6698371.post-83036323731008820722010-05-03T15:26:00.004-04:002010-05-03T15:53:01.860-04:00Review: You Can Be Everything God Wants You to Be by Max Lucado<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEBJWxPems4ahojJ_7o8RH8yxrXdkrAeB9ma6rMBHVwCZrqFpIaaKfuRfWD3tHYkW-7b_fh_YVuLXna6k1vK5U604K6eoLPm4fQGSw3v-4RgVkk0K0K0wUw0fZ5n768-cTeawikg/s1600/_140_245_Book.185.cover.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 140px; height: 196px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEBJWxPems4ahojJ_7o8RH8yxrXdkrAeB9ma6rMBHVwCZrqFpIaaKfuRfWD3tHYkW-7b_fh_YVuLXna6k1vK5U604K6eoLPm4fQGSw3v-4RgVkk0K0K0wUw0fZ5n768-cTeawikg/s320/_140_245_Book.185.cover.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5467134177306692482" /></a><br /><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>I received a <a href="http://www.blogger.com/www.booksneeze.com">complimentary copy</a> of the book <i><a href="http://www.thomasnelson.com/consumer/product_detail.asp?sku=0849946654&title=YOU_CAN_BE_EVERYTHING_GOD_WANTS_YOU_TO_BE">You Can Be Everything God Wants You to Be</a></i><a href="http://www.thomasnelson.com/consumer/product_detail.asp?sku=0849946654&title=YOU_CAN_BE_EVERYTHING_GOD_WANTS_YOU_TO_BE"> by Max Lucado</a> from <a href="http://www.thomasnelson.com/">Thomas Nelson Publishing</a>. This book is 127 pages long and contains excerpts from another Lucado book, <i>Cure for the Common Life</i>. It contains encouraging passages about how each of us is uniquely created by God and He has given each of us specific gifts and talents that make up who we are. Each section has scripture and various stories to better explain Lucado's points. The sections are only 2-3 pages each and which makes the book easy to pick up and put down periodically.<div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span> I see this book as a "gift book" or a "coffee table book." I enjoyed the insights Lucado gave, and that it was a quick easy read. However there were times I was wanting more and therefore for someone struggling with who they are in Christ, I think even more could be gained from reading the original book in its entirety, <i>Cure for the Common Life </i>(which I have not read, but am interested in after reading this shorter book). However, as a gift book or an encouraging word for someone struggling in their job or current life situation, I think this would be great to give away or read for yourself. Max Lucado does a great job of focusing on scriptures and he has a unique, easy to follow style of writing. I recommend this for new graduates, those starting new jobs, or seeking a career change. The book itself even came with a sticker marketing it as a gift for graduations. If you are looking for something deeper and more instructive, I would recommend looking into the full version instead of this shorter version of excerpts.</div>Rachel C. Clayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01557223908799385917noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6698371.post-67545344916419871982010-03-31T08:23:00.003-04:002010-03-31T08:30:42.641-04:00Review: Gigi’s Big Break DVD by Sheila Walsh<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqBA85mEzdWLG73fXsXL-rV8txFpE3s0HEUJ1uiHxS_UCpH2AuorgcSQ1Y2aE2zjo3MJqcaMmALUAAnPqXIKCqjS1OnSjvXvhcEIdyL1OFOv-pGArU5wzqdUhfLrGOLInirMxabA/s1600/_140_245_Book.163.cover.jpg" style="text-decoration: none;"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 140px; height: 197px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqBA85mEzdWLG73fXsXL-rV8txFpE3s0HEUJ1uiHxS_UCpH2AuorgcSQ1Y2aE2zjo3MJqcaMmALUAAnPqXIKCqjS1OnSjvXvhcEIdyL1OFOv-pGArU5wzqdUhfLrGOLInirMxabA/s320/_140_245_Book.163.cover.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5454774208208036354" /></a> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">I recently watched <i style="mso-bidi-font-style:normal">Gigi’s Big Break</i> on DVD.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>It contains two stories:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>“The White Lie” and “The Pink Surprise.” <span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>The first story is a lesson in honesty and follows Gigi as she tells a bigger and bigger lie, eventually admitting the truth and asking forgiveness.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>At the end a Scripture verse relating to honesty is shown.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>The second story:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>“The Pink Surprise” is about loving siblings.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Gigi’s parents reveal they will be having another baby.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>At first Gigi is excited, but that soon changes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>The storylines move in between Gigi’s make believe world and the real world.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">The animation on the DVD is pretty basic and not very exciting.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>At the beginning of the story this bothered me as the characters seem incredibly stiff.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>However, once I was involved in the story this no longer bothered me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I liked the fact that the story includes real conversations between Gigi and her mother.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Some other highlights include a family prayer before a meal, Gigi praying before bed, and scriptures included at the end of each story.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>The lesson is told clearly and interestingly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I do recommend this video and other Gigi products for young girls.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Young girls (preschool) would enjoy the cuteness of the characters and animation while school age girls would be more likely to get something from the story.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">**A complimentary copy of <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal">Gigi’s Big Break </i>(DVD) was provided for me by Thomas Nelson Publishing for the purpose of this review.</p><p class="MsoNormal">Learn more about this DVD at <a href="http://www.thomasnelson.com/consumer/product_detail.asp?sku=1400315107&title=Gigi,_God%27s_Little_Princess_#7__:_Gigi%27s_Big_Break">Thomas Nelson Publishing</a></p> <!--EndFragment-->Rachel C. Clayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01557223908799385917noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6698371.post-47878770977421601162010-02-18T20:31:00.006-05:002010-02-18T21:19:20.327-05:00Gifts<div style="text-align: center;">One of my favorite parts of scrapbooking is being able to make things for other people. I love giving unique, thoughtful gifts, and if I can make the gift even better! The following I made for a friend who was kind enough to do something for me, and I wanted to say thank you.</div><div>I made an album using a BoBunny kit I had purchased awhile back at Archivers. I highly recommend any BoBunny kits you can purchase. They come with everything you need and they are awesome. They are beautiful and different then just a standard mini-album. I wish I was creative enough to create this on my own, but since I am not I love using kits!! Here are a few pictures from the album I made that can be used for pictures or just journaling. </div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">The Cover</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_9Qb1U-yn0n1vBkHAFs6xmUs1Cnb2yjS9B1ois50lqem4pxmYvkrDmx7_Ev0mpCVMcVuG6IP4xpvyRrVoVjmSV5RlY0kWDSITH4dN-Cpt549aLDc9RJYhcxWW4UPoshuAKFe2YA/s1600-h/DSCF3061.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_9Qb1U-yn0n1vBkHAFs6xmUs1Cnb2yjS9B1ois50lqem4pxmYvkrDmx7_Ev0mpCVMcVuG6IP4xpvyRrVoVjmSV5RlY0kWDSITH4dN-Cpt549aLDc9RJYhcxWW4UPoshuAKFe2YA/s320/DSCF3061.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5439765366747032994" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px; " /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">A cool page but quite difficult. I used a craft knife to cut the page in half and to take a square out of the page to show the pictures on either side. I don't have a great craft knife, but I did my best.</div><div><br /></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#0000EE;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="text-decoration: underline;"><br /></span></span></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjL3UI7Seh9JVH-PP9FdxdUEbUbdihzBd_z2y2QghqMzt9wrKd00Xsaxraf1WdExOjPPi-fnKW7RazDWnhb2xoRvroLL9BNakvl1MrjfW5UDGw4Fk0ixKABg0zk_F1okGfz7AsJJA/s1600-h/DSCF3063.JPG" style="text-decoration: none;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjL3UI7Seh9JVH-PP9FdxdUEbUbdihzBd_z2y2QghqMzt9wrKd00Xsaxraf1WdExOjPPi-fnKW7RazDWnhb2xoRvroLL9BNakvl1MrjfW5UDGw4Fk0ixKABg0zk_F1okGfz7AsJJA/s320/DSCF3063.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5439765359330888706" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px; " /></a></div><div><br /></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#0000EE;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="text-decoration: underline;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;">This might be my favorite page of the whole book. I think it is a beautiful design, and I love the right side and the layers it holds.</div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqNxBCX7LzOXKYi95Jbu81-QYNXASOb1JVHG-NaidbRr_dhoElj1LwdgfRpj2Lf0cTG6nXUXhGbsXuYQZrtwZm5vuHpcxV_zlbaaSg5aw1LMUI_4y0VEgpgI3h2RZ98yJnmPXP8A/s1600-h/DSCF3065.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqNxBCX7LzOXKYi95Jbu81-QYNXASOb1JVHG-NaidbRr_dhoElj1LwdgfRpj2Lf0cTG6nXUXhGbsXuYQZrtwZm5vuHpcxV_zlbaaSg5aw1LMUI_4y0VEgpgI3h2RZ98yJnmPXP8A/s320/DSCF3065.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5439765348872317938" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px; " /></a><div style="text-align: center;">This is a fun page as well because it has a pocket with various journal pages. Pockets are a lot of fun and add a lot to a page!</div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCv8uUMUa0mZLeNoCKJmF9GhH2QQAZqHvg7IL3KWmIVXWnShjnyDycTcHR7lPZSTR8rM8MSrzFqdAKTw7LYeBzr7Q2Wi7jEUuMFw8G8iWGycN7zoeGGIYmwMycDKJ5YdfBoyHoxQ/s1600-h/DSCF3066.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCv8uUMUa0mZLeNoCKJmF9GhH2QQAZqHvg7IL3KWmIVXWnShjnyDycTcHR7lPZSTR8rM8MSrzFqdAKTw7LYeBzr7Q2Wi7jEUuMFw8G8iWGycN7zoeGGIYmwMycDKJ5YdfBoyHoxQ/s320/DSCF3066.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5439765341466124242" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px; " /></a></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>As with most kits, when I finished I had quite a few leftover pieces so I decided to try and create a few cards for my friend. I was pretty pleased with how they turned out. My base was a yellow card with a slight white flowery background. Most of the embellishments are stickers with a few other embellishments I had on hand. I created a layered look on many of the cards using paper layers as a starting point sometimes finishing with an embellishment using pop-ups. Also, many of the pieces already had a layered look to them. It was great how much stuff was left from the kit!</div><div><br /></div><div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhk9lNY7fSDjAtEaVFfDhpEG160a03oLjeVh0udB3eg5QE2nsX8C4mt7alQ0BJzyT7kb7wyTbGKy5PaD0sIVGx7T-pb2vnVDQxZptttlyXjaevOeMd9pCSTGr3KeoKp6T4ukNHhkg/s1600-h/DSCF3074.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhk9lNY7fSDjAtEaVFfDhpEG160a03oLjeVh0udB3eg5QE2nsX8C4mt7alQ0BJzyT7kb7wyTbGKy5PaD0sIVGx7T-pb2vnVDQxZptttlyXjaevOeMd9pCSTGr3KeoKp6T4ukNHhkg/s320/DSCF3074.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5439770748851565922" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px; " /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtdSXnOGelcFWLud4D3WDh2oNWyeVq-Q4Bzgs3BL0mN8M2n3dDBlrEc8uJhp16oRdmGikGwMEyehqNXk4ieWphEfkMM3SlxKC71OM-P7lg9Y5dE8Z3_DDgSWw0CC2OMRqxa5TpKw/s1600-h/DSCF3073.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtdSXnOGelcFWLud4D3WDh2oNWyeVq-Q4Bzgs3BL0mN8M2n3dDBlrEc8uJhp16oRdmGikGwMEyehqNXk4ieWphEfkMM3SlxKC71OM-P7lg9Y5dE8Z3_DDgSWw0CC2OMRqxa5TpKw/s320/DSCF3073.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5439770352250493554" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px; " /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvaM0UPrlzc_H3i3GMF3t0ZgJdFcF_oAnqliuLQpKw9DiD3jBDQst3K479goynFemZYY9yBoumT1uNv-I9G6bWGPeodABCRswykBNSWyGngYy66kcXRHVtGB12rATv1gI2ajz5dg/s1600-h/DSCF3072.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvaM0UPrlzc_H3i3GMF3t0ZgJdFcF_oAnqliuLQpKw9DiD3jBDQst3K479goynFemZYY9yBoumT1uNv-I9G6bWGPeodABCRswykBNSWyGngYy66kcXRHVtGB12rATv1gI2ajz5dg/s320/DSCF3072.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5439770346001636114" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px; " /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg73VD-hvzY3tQlMsG5kiEQnrVAAM0ecvyTL5c3C5yzY2-oGS0ZU7OedmDIvfS_9Mx5aj-1G0KnKabexSS3hdtbxBkJv6Y750yiD18jH1rE6qqv5TBxWPbLTZRh5jLw9zpCK31OcQ/s1600-h/DSCF3071.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg73VD-hvzY3tQlMsG5kiEQnrVAAM0ecvyTL5c3C5yzY2-oGS0ZU7OedmDIvfS_9Mx5aj-1G0KnKabexSS3hdtbxBkJv6Y750yiD18jH1rE6qqv5TBxWPbLTZRh5jLw9zpCK31OcQ/s320/DSCF3071.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5439770337390763218" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px; " /></a><br /><br /></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfk225f0n8cqGihoQuDEH877EKaekr7eSHkHfVol6ezfC08VjwKn0wIiACNs4O2EJFUjfyLjNfm0wf5R-Uw0pXpnVc_saCBWL2OpDMT5YOrc8syltpCLUwT2s17XXisXwUAqca9A/s320/DSCF3070.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5439770325581100370" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px; " /></span></div><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhv5oV9_zuZPcLJ07Zea32_sPaFMMantcqvRxXvefEhFAW7vlH1GBo1_EQrTox1hJmAun-ZFYrUBMNp_dPMXlWuzCjlH0Z_AQKiU_a3JAw6n6x4LSur3siFW-XZRE45shvyDjnuOg/s320/DSCF3069.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5439770320970932018" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px; " /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfk225f0n8cqGihoQuDEH877EKaekr7eSHkHfVol6ezfC08VjwKn0wIiACNs4O2EJFUjfyLjNfm0wf5R-Uw0pXpnVc_saCBWL2OpDMT5YOrc8syltpCLUwT2s17XXisXwUAqca9A/s1600-h/DSCF3070.JPG"></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfk225f0n8cqGihoQuDEH877EKaekr7eSHkHfVol6ezfC08VjwKn0wIiACNs4O2EJFUjfyLjNfm0wf5R-Uw0pXpnVc_saCBWL2OpDMT5YOrc8syltpCLUwT2s17XXisXwUAqca9A/s1600-h/DSCF3070.JPG"></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfk225f0n8cqGihoQuDEH877EKaekr7eSHkHfVol6ezfC08VjwKn0wIiACNs4O2EJFUjfyLjNfm0wf5R-Uw0pXpnVc_saCBWL2OpDMT5YOrc8syltpCLUwT2s17XXisXwUAqca9A/s1600-h/DSCF3070.JPG"></a></div><div><br /></div>Rachel C. Clayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01557223908799385917noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6698371.post-45796144001360133342010-01-30T20:54:00.003-05:002010-01-30T21:01:49.667-05:00Birthday Creations<div>For Thomas's birthday I tried to get a little crafty. I made this sign to hang on the front door. It's great because it will double as a scrap book page! I also made some favor bags using this same truck cut out--unfortunately I forgot to take a picture of those!</div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZNFXsIORiasc29ikdVqDSmeavgpPyydQpCh-9RCi3AxmPrWlqXrl6CCvgQ9ZBtwLyz-cJCKsg-2Fz-JCQYZuapVxr55b29_pS10IOAbhR8IMqHnCSyLak405YM4o7iV_3ZVComg/s320/DSCF2928.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5432717146134956210" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px; " /></span></div><div>I also made this display of Thomas's birth announcement. I wanted to do something to display all three pieces of the announcement and wasn't sure what to do. For this, I just attached all three pieces to a strand of ribbon.</div><div><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPTacosgG9vAEqG_SPUpVffAer4kv4K10waAsZth-Ehhnc8H_YQrb2cURJWHhgzrvHPh_81VwMrXxLOo7QHECYklJ785OGfAwJlEe98fxPdFaS4N-TzmTeTvxL9inAETrGTrdvQQ/s1600-h/DSCF2905.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPTacosgG9vAEqG_SPUpVffAer4kv4K10waAsZth-Ehhnc8H_YQrb2cURJWHhgzrvHPh_81VwMrXxLOo7QHECYklJ785OGfAwJlEe98fxPdFaS4N-TzmTeTvxL9inAETrGTrdvQQ/s320/DSCF2905.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5432717154351075858" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZNFXsIORiasc29ikdVqDSmeavgpPyydQpCh-9RCi3AxmPrWlqXrl6CCvgQ9ZBtwLyz-cJCKsg-2Fz-JCQYZuapVxr55b29_pS10IOAbhR8IMqHnCSyLak405YM4o7iV_3ZVComg/s1600-h/DSCF2928.JPG"></a>Rachel C. Clayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01557223908799385917noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6698371.post-57903763808620278062010-01-22T07:39:00.008-05:002010-01-22T09:12:26.164-05:00Thomas's First Christmas Mini Album<div>After Christmas, I wanted to make something easy and quick to guarantee I got something created to remember Thomas's first Christmas. I didn't want a lot of journaling, I just wanted to display some of the fun pictures, and have something ready to show friends and family at his birthday party. I hadn't really created in a few months. I had tried to make some cards, but just couldn't get into it because my scrap area was a complete disaster.<div>After Christmas Nathan and I committed to cleaning up our bonus room so that it could really become the multi-purpose room we envision. Though we hope for a lot of improvements still, it finally is a place we can all be. Thomas has a huge area to play in and Nathan and I have usable areas as well. Since then I have been in the room almost every day working on things. One of the first things I created this year was a 6x6 album of Thomas's first Christmas. It's very simple. I precut all the background papers, printed the pictures I wanted in size 3x4 (my at home picture printer does this), grabbed a few embellishments I had, and went to work. Hope you like it!</div></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-ICOr_NcUVPFZzgJvm9iMRJT7a5TFKdwtC8GNRcl8T067bG9NA5LC31xx52mKYb17S4Q9e7ptxEgipfzNqakidvH5QRICLHXz5AcZyMwexROZjwOXOlsAwWuo8PYXTBbqgPvUFg/s1600-h/DSCF2906.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-ICOr_NcUVPFZzgJvm9iMRJT7a5TFKdwtC8GNRcl8T067bG9NA5LC31xx52mKYb17S4Q9e7ptxEgipfzNqakidvH5QRICLHXz5AcZyMwexROZjwOXOlsAwWuo8PYXTBbqgPvUFg/s320/DSCF2906.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5429560661031903138" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixVFwR50dT5hNa4r8q9q3l2izEIgcdgZk-u3HAN5kZfla3DzcHnTtiA8B7HIDlDZTQTSndi3EwgXy5YqYBRQi1rrQ1d-YFWYEL9SLFuD8PmD6HdARKTTjlAugeUYnqOJx5gX5kPg/s1600-h/DSCF2907.JPG"><img style="display:block; 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margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px; " /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPctC6s9XoNzDeaEbZaZS1qyuMPY3nLIEuAX3ictt4qjmquY5U9eeyTfxN5UpKzIw1pthRuORAwlofduJ-aK4QG6lbqv0jeHW53xspTcflnDI9D_F-Y1XarZXIQy2LINdDxeOfbw/s1600-h/DSCF2927.JPG"><br /></a></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvIJeFJQ9mWG7Hrj9jQ7jMbDh8KPJoQ1QDWbHJSoLazczDXvRYshRFpueNzehhmfQONrcjx2yEYwvhdcYKtq0VUpdnAXL8zGTV9J3h1YvShNPIIlut7aYEKvNQYdXWAoTe4LaSag/s1600-h/DSCF2925.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvIJeFJQ9mWG7Hrj9jQ7jMbDh8KPJoQ1QDWbHJSoLazczDXvRYshRFpueNzehhmfQONrcjx2yEYwvhdcYKtq0VUpdnAXL8zGTV9J3h1YvShNPIIlut7aYEKvNQYdXWAoTe4LaSag/s320/DSCF2925.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5429551001245668754" /><br /></a><div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#0000EE;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="text-decoration: underline;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#0000EE;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="text-decoration: underline;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxxckETwrCV2sTUh69AN1yLcGZnzN2BHOlLgPGih7UwW9XwcxuqGV-W6NEBNCxmh4ZiCBIjdKy7f5wk-shCqrxgRIP74ap1lslEak9it4o5Zmlr9QQwNnHBEsOl6a1OpR-bIk6Ug/s320/DSCF2926.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5429551005476082802" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px; " /></span></span></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#0000EE;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="text-decoration: underline;"><br /></span></span></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#0000EE;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="text-decoration: underline;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#0000EE;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="text-decoration: underline;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPctC6s9XoNzDeaEbZaZS1qyuMPY3nLIEuAX3ictt4qjmquY5U9eeyTfxN5UpKzIw1pthRuORAwlofduJ-aK4QG6lbqv0jeHW53xspTcflnDI9D_F-Y1XarZXIQy2LINdDxeOfbw/s320/DSCF2927.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5429551015164904818" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px; " /></span></span></div><br /><br /><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div></div></div>Rachel C. Clayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01557223908799385917noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6698371.post-2416390050976143082010-01-22T07:30:00.004-05:002010-01-22T07:37:37.980-05:00Life Gets in the WayI never meant to go three months without publishing. I really had a lot of posts in mind that just never made it from my head to the computer. A lot was going on in the past three months. Thomas learned to walk which really changed everything; he was sick and teething and fussy. And then the holidays came with lots of shopping and traveling. Then we celebrated Thomas's birthday. Finally life has calmed a bit, Thomas is sleeping through the night, and I am making myself get up early for some quiet time with God and sometimes Thomas even sleeps a little extra long. So, one of my goals this year is to use this time for my blog when possible. I do like sharing what I have created or sharing my opinion on what I have read or seen. I have read a few things over the past few months, so I will try to share those things over the next week or so. I haven't seen much. Nathan and I haven't been to the movies in months, and we held on to a Netflix movie way to long (we never did watch it). But finally we sent our Netflix back and got Star Trek. I have to say I did enjoy it! It moved pretty fast, and was entertaining. We watched some of the extras (which I recommend) and it was fascinating to see how they created certain scenes. Evidently during a lot of scenes they were manually shaking the camera! Very cool. So, if you haven't seen Star Trek, and your husband or boyfriend or guy friend wants to watch it, I'd see it with him. I don't think you will be bored, and it's a good movie everyone can enjoy.<div>So, my goal from now on is to make sure life doesn't get in the way of blogging. I spend too much time browsing the internet anyway when I could be posting!</div>Rachel C. Clayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01557223908799385917noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6698371.post-20042549959877636192009-10-12T11:28:00.002-04:002009-10-12T11:39:55.928-04:00Social Scrapbooking<div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdGGTsIggY-9TXKx_EGcYW3i_O5ePdE9Z_STFvrGbHbLbCElVEQ7FUAnMxKLB6IsX8pUdB-IZXpkUw9hUfF2Xgf2xLwfAhxHuF1gi3ZHUtaE8XRII9puFQBnVS5LY9X4Uoi1k14w/s1600-h/DSCF2081.JPG"></a>My favorite part of scrapbooking is sharing it with others. When I make something, I can't keep it to myself. I have to show Nathan or take a picture and email it to my mom or other friends. Part of this is sharing in an accomplishment, but part of it is wanting someone else to get out of the project what I got such as remembering the story or a memory associated with it. When I can share scrapbooking in person with a good friend; this is even better.<div>Aimee came to visit a couple weeks ago for a few days. While Thomas slept we were able to spend some time making fall cards. The Halloween card that Aimee made was "scraplifted" from a card in a the <i>Scrapbook Etc.</i> magazine (scraplifting is when you use or find inspiration from another person's work and is totally allowed and encouraged in most scrapbooking circles!) The Fall card was inspired by a card in the magazine <i>Cards</i>. I had precut all the materials for the Halloween card so Aimee was able to complete 20 of them (1o for each of us)! The Fall card I created was a little bit slower as I had to find the inspiration and then design it to work with my materials. Luckily I was able to use up things I already had at home including a lot of Fall ribbon from the One Stop Dollar Stop at Target! I was able to complete 9 cards for Aimee, and now have the design to complete cards for myself.</div><div>Other than the great cards we both now have, the best part was being together, talking, and sharing ideas. I don't mind creating on my own, but I definitely enjoy creating with a friend! Here are pictures of the cards!</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdGGTsIggY-9TXKx_EGcYW3i_O5ePdE9Z_STFvrGbHbLbCElVEQ7FUAnMxKLB6IsX8pUdB-IZXpkUw9hUfF2Xgf2xLwfAhxHuF1gi3ZHUtaE8XRII9puFQBnVS5LY9X4Uoi1k14w/s1600-h/DSCF2081.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdGGTsIggY-9TXKx_EGcYW3i_O5ePdE9Z_STFvrGbHbLbCElVEQ7FUAnMxKLB6IsX8pUdB-IZXpkUw9hUfF2Xgf2xLwfAhxHuF1gi3ZHUtaE8XRII9puFQBnVS5LY9X4Uoi1k14w/s320/DSCF2081.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5391738481407498722" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px; " /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmD86Kxuzo1DvKrq3GePvlnc4ATAj75ttOij_uNDhUQtrZkssjEslTodjDAXfEkn_cCcoAgYnNHo86RGWvTbbZ5z06ods4v_RU4dgWYhx9PQjcoM_v8qqXClnqDwBf4NsdWptM2w/s1600-h/DSCF2080.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmD86Kxuzo1DvKrq3GePvlnc4ATAj75ttOij_uNDhUQtrZkssjEslTodjDAXfEkn_cCcoAgYnNHo86RGWvTbbZ5z06ods4v_RU4dgWYhx9PQjcoM_v8qqXClnqDwBf4NsdWptM2w/s320/DSCF2080.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5391738478010829426" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px; " /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-X0lI3LZgRWg87cnhQi9MBEHHR_ZwjPf3BUSm5rZnykqCRsWfn91k_afr7DhCc8cYN4MoCLvKxIOnWPvMXB8bszYNA5MsNXz26RAUXAkx-i0w-6tKSINyJNQkEEkh0bCsB-P4Bw/s1600-h/DSCF2079.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-X0lI3LZgRWg87cnhQi9MBEHHR_ZwjPf3BUSm5rZnykqCRsWfn91k_afr7DhCc8cYN4MoCLvKxIOnWPvMXB8bszYNA5MsNXz26RAUXAkx-i0w-6tKSINyJNQkEEkh0bCsB-P4Bw/s320/DSCF2079.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5391738469164050354" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px; " /></a></div><div> </div>Rachel C. Clayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01557223908799385917noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6698371.post-13509431665739752932009-10-06T19:47:00.003-04:002009-10-12T11:28:23.386-04:00Being vs. DoingTo do or to be? That seems to be the question, or at least a popular sermon theme. I can remember countless sermons focusing on this theme, and I'm sure there are many I can't remember! Again, this Sunday it was the theme of the Sunday sermon. The focus was on how too often we try to grow in our relationship with God merely through what we do...we forget that God's grace is the reason for our relationship with Him, and that we actually need to focus on Being a child of God.<div>But with that, comes with what does it mean to "Be" a child of God. Do we sit and do nothing? Of course, the answer is no. But what do we "do" when we are "being"? This concept is confusing to write about much less figure out what it means to live it! One big conclusion I came to this past Sunday is that this concept "being vs. doing" is really important and really hard. This is why it's a constant theme...it's probably one of the most difficult things of the Christian walk and also one of the most vital aspects of the walk. </div><div> With this in mind, I realize that being vs. doing is something that needs to be ever present on my mind. As I continue doing life, I need to be still at times and concentrate on the being part. This is a challenge I am slow to take on, yet eager knowing that the results will be great. To everyone else who has heard the sermon and has struggled, I want to encourage you! You are not alone in seeking to be a child of God!</div>Rachel C. Clayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01557223908799385917noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6698371.post-9474052847573503112009-09-26T20:16:00.003-04:002009-09-26T20:51:06.537-04:00More Mini Albums<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEju1YIAG3IPH2Q5RZOjDLLL4_mTaaz6ArJOk15cr50JlK1Mf647KAa7dKd_IZjzPkFg6qH-GGsSHjc3B_fVRgtFqrzjqCedCb96htqtdRH0CDTkfJj0UiRQEylBMwunqcT4f_ZkRg/s1600-h/DSCF2003.JPG"></a><div>The past week I was busy making a few more mini albums as well as a gift card holder. All of these were gifts, so I had to wait to publish them till the new owners received them. I think the gift card holder is my favorite that I have made so far. I just like how the colors and papers worked out! I'm quite pleased by the mini albums as well. I used my book to create them from scratch. The covers are made with covered chipboard and then the pages (one sheet of cardstock) are attached accordion style. I also learned a cool trick about hiding the ribbon underneath the pages. The mini albums are very similar because they were created for my friends Kathy and Rachel to commemorate our weekend get together over labor day. I used the same format for both albums and was able to create them over a couple days in 15-20 minute increments. Now I just need to make one for myself!<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKTYYeryN1YLqO0lWIztQruRbIeeQwBzzc71CvMlP35R63j3Nu-0-pc0XkOOXvRJoh2Yb4Vxq2xTSQyvjdQYan-9xUSyMhGOORytxQAqTRlX5qyMvitO33w2agzqQVSZ2kNMY3sw/s1600-h/DSCF1995.JPG"></a><br /><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><div style="text-align: center;">Gift Card holder for my friend Kathy for her birthday</div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnY7eOUPPYgrenRQz3Miglqg4meDxNls3IUViRTaNE-nYB2RHLzxw2UEyfPdTBUQ_qL6Gf0v31RupMEM_OYWyv5ve3A2RyAcs_3_xkoBn23ZiNQiowJANAeTBCfreg4gq4z7hpKw/s1600-h/DSCF1993.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnY7eOUPPYgrenRQz3Miglqg4meDxNls3IUViRTaNE-nYB2RHLzxw2UEyfPdTBUQ_qL6Gf0v31RupMEM_OYWyv5ve3A2RyAcs_3_xkoBn23ZiNQiowJANAeTBCfreg4gq4z7hpKw/s320/DSCF1993.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5385936259578466674" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px; " /><br /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">I fully lined the inside piece (because I didn't like its color) and I love the way it turned out!</div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKTYYeryN1YLqO0lWIztQruRbIeeQwBzzc71CvMlP35R63j3Nu-0-pc0XkOOXvRJoh2Yb4Vxq2xTSQyvjdQYan-9xUSyMhGOORytxQAqTRlX5qyMvitO33w2agzqQVSZ2kNMY3sw/s320/DSCF1995.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5385936267893105762" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px; " /></span><br /><div style="text-align: center;">Album for Kathy celebrating Labor Day weekend</div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgmBxPs6heZrGyUejVJHEz1jGJJx7YuZRi1cHAtRw4MMGHxj19NafOs811YzUSJkA7IBYMEMk7S4Yj94ffGpcwbdTcgaZaDtA8Do7yAu6yhXG1Vg0e5okN-Y6Q_bAnY0SWvtEfpA/s1600-h/DSCF2002.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgmBxPs6heZrGyUejVJHEz1jGJJx7YuZRi1cHAtRw4MMGHxj19NafOs811YzUSJkA7IBYMEMk7S4Yj94ffGpcwbdTcgaZaDtA8Do7yAu6yhXG1Vg0e5okN-Y6Q_bAnY0SWvtEfpA/s320/DSCF2002.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5385936286616708258" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">The inside can be turned like pages or...</div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEju1YIAG3IPH2Q5RZOjDLLL4_mTaaz6ArJOk15cr50JlK1Mf647KAa7dKd_IZjzPkFg6qH-GGsSHjc3B_fVRgtFqrzjqCedCb96htqtdRH0CDTkfJj0UiRQEylBMwunqcT4f_ZkRg/s320/DSCF2003.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5385936625613842066" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px; " /></span></div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); "><br /></span></div><div><div style="text-align: center;">completely pulled apart for full viewing. (Inside of Rachel's album)</div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238);"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwCTlS3SxUhBsezcB6VRHw4bDKyfZT7t52-FfNsRZkW2YSGtA37Zs4vcE2Qe4NHP6IEKrGuavUAE6OiviXTZQUQgnDNWJjahJ_zc7L_HuBxCLVrQXEIbP4q7u2CHlimOL5xJxfkQ/s320/DSCF1997.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5385936277848887826" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px; " /><br /><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxHW2yCQDpZd8PpHW5o3bldStVTQEuRSBb8Qzdc7kzjRQSNDjmk5mjqVVgtOvWCMGm54acJAq_3rnXu22U9NNGPY0NankZ3ugfUztWXN_OdCTq8LtEJWhfZhMuYqTHTk-PE6UpAg/s320/DSCF1996.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5385936271736768914" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px; " /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;">Cover of Rachel's album.</div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); "></span><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwCTlS3SxUhBsezcB6VRHw4bDKyfZT7t52-FfNsRZkW2YSGtA37Zs4vcE2Qe4NHP6IEKrGuavUAE6OiviXTZQUQgnDNWJjahJ_zc7L_HuBxCLVrQXEIbP4q7u2CHlimOL5xJxfkQ/s1600-h/DSCF1997.JPG"></a><br /></div></div>Rachel C. Clayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01557223908799385917noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6698371.post-15447081558482613612009-09-18T21:20:00.003-04:002009-09-18T21:54:49.115-04:00Creating<div>I actually created this mini album a few weeks ago. It's my first "coffee-related" album. The title "Life is Short, Stay Awake for It" is the theme from Caribou Coffee. I loved it as soon as I read it, because I truly feel that way. It was the perfect theme for my album on things I want to do someday. I am loving mini albums. I think they are the perfect thing for a new mom. I get 15 minutes here and there, and when I put a few together, I get my mini album. :) It's fun!</div><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEht4X9Cn49cyw1E_xqFs3NLNbC1Ld2ym5D8Xm-PyRXdGy3xTtnNe9Yx3e9eY1p2WqL6YxzZ-Hf1SehU7Ms29sSxRSl81SzdYx7Joo-4YPAs3nQZTYyS8e-kxOq5nYTZcyjF6-Ybow/s320/DSCF1987.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5382984242035186658" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px; " /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9WEuWtNj_7_hbmKFvYA_j0022_viTBIY8UWPNspe_H7WG-cQGkRyeZSVGbWNXA36c1WtdOBWWWtD19KVyU5mcv33Odw5eNWceKoaPkdX_3UQ8EYbmQg0FkRH1wz3qBlZ4tOq9aQ/s1600-h/DSCF1989.JPG"></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9WEuWtNj_7_hbmKFvYA_j0022_viTBIY8UWPNspe_H7WG-cQGkRyeZSVGbWNXA36c1WtdOBWWWtD19KVyU5mcv33Odw5eNWceKoaPkdX_3UQ8EYbmQg0FkRH1wz3qBlZ4tOq9aQ/s1600-h/DSCF1989.JPG"></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7MP2fW9S4Q3O-T7lUa3CvYuLp0TIA06L8XfySDNeY4V7VB0j42bBHAMiVoLaBg46wOFhNYnYQ24Cs2nTGpNw-K2y42rD0mtu7pcGYtXjmUeBwOpUwrZIS8bDmDXNMC_fYxJsgEw/s1600-h/DSCF1992.JPG"></a><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisLnVBHcsBKz2oYj1cEVccu2LMOtf0Thl703cl9C74FofR1AiS_XxeQiz7ix61ngu-fsDv7JXoY3GeYFXjQYsv0Ddtmn6fsdZdt-pG-GDMQEdtkRu_MuAhhPXUBlyAE7bMQaz83A/s1600-h/DSCF1988.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisLnVBHcsBKz2oYj1cEVccu2LMOtf0Thl703cl9C74FofR1AiS_XxeQiz7ix61ngu-fsDv7JXoY3GeYFXjQYsv0Ddtmn6fsdZdt-pG-GDMQEdtkRu_MuAhhPXUBlyAE7bMQaz83A/s320/DSCF1988.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5382984247935884754" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px; " /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_e8FUYk7yJWhBA2FqLbyhRn4gitAaGVnJ0uY5Nts7CDMKyPydUh7WFdLYfRjyTk219Sj9H2GDJaVo411oADD0UFKZnrdYIh-F4iEmqYxNaIijU_NpzD2Ba3zjCRUGVqLd72xnww/s1600-h/DSCF1990.JPG"></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9WEuWtNj_7_hbmKFvYA_j0022_viTBIY8UWPNspe_H7WG-cQGkRyeZSVGbWNXA36c1WtdOBWWWtD19KVyU5mcv33Odw5eNWceKoaPkdX_3UQ8EYbmQg0FkRH1wz3qBlZ4tOq9aQ/s1600-h/DSCF1989.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9WEuWtNj_7_hbmKFvYA_j0022_viTBIY8UWPNspe_H7WG-cQGkRyeZSVGbWNXA36c1WtdOBWWWtD19KVyU5mcv33Odw5eNWceKoaPkdX_3UQ8EYbmQg0FkRH1wz3qBlZ4tOq9aQ/s320/DSCF1989.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5382984259028717410" /><br /></a></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); text-decoration: underline;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_e8FUYk7yJWhBA2FqLbyhRn4gitAaGVnJ0uY5Nts7CDMKyPydUh7WFdLYfRjyTk219Sj9H2GDJaVo411oADD0UFKZnrdYIh-F4iEmqYxNaIijU_NpzD2Ba3zjCRUGVqLd72xnww/s320/DSCF1990.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5382984266989651154" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px; " /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); text-decoration: underline;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); "><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilMlaBQMkwmzE7DFpCFOddamV-aB3OUvzHWFNAvbJWQQCzahDy_bYdqd7KzYhwMpKo8kT8T-gNMSWxXWsJdvOEPPje_dUIiK8_PvirTxTfJuaVoOus2aekHT4ees64SMoTCa2N8w/s1600-h/DSCF1991.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilMlaBQMkwmzE7DFpCFOddamV-aB3OUvzHWFNAvbJWQQCzahDy_bYdqd7KzYhwMpKo8kT8T-gNMSWxXWsJdvOEPPje_dUIiK8_PvirTxTfJuaVoOus2aekHT4ees64SMoTCa2N8w/s320/DSCF1991.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5382984270366104434" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px; " /></a><div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisLnVBHcsBKz2oYj1cEVccu2LMOtf0Thl703cl9C74FofR1AiS_XxeQiz7ix61ngu-fsDv7JXoY3GeYFXjQYsv0Ddtmn6fsdZdt-pG-GDMQEdtkRu_MuAhhPXUBlyAE7bMQaz83A/s1600-h/DSCF1988.JPG"></a></div></span></span></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisLnVBHcsBKz2oYj1cEVccu2LMOtf0Thl703cl9C74FofR1AiS_XxeQiz7ix61ngu-fsDv7JXoY3GeYFXjQYsv0Ddtmn6fsdZdt-pG-GDMQEdtkRu_MuAhhPXUBlyAE7bMQaz83A/s1600-h/DSCF1988.JPG"><br /></a><div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); text-decoration: underline;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7MP2fW9S4Q3O-T7lUa3CvYuLp0TIA06L8XfySDNeY4V7VB0j42bBHAMiVoLaBg46wOFhNYnYQ24Cs2nTGpNw-K2y42rD0mtu7pcGYtXjmUeBwOpUwrZIS8bDmDXNMC_fYxJsgEw/s320/DSCF1992.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5382984625770765474" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px; " /></span></div><br /><br /></div></div>Rachel C. Clayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01557223908799385917noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6698371.post-28926733727751388112009-09-14T15:57:00.005-04:002009-09-14T16:10:33.112-04:00"My Cup" OverflowethAt a recent Bible study I attended, a speaker used a coffee mug as an object lesson to illustrate her relationships with other women. Immediately I realized that I would have done the same thing, and I began to ponder this. Though I do not get the opportunity as much anymore, I used to love going to a coffee shop with a friend. Occasionally a group of us would go, but the memorable times involve just one or two close friends. We would all order our coffee or drink of choice and sit and talk. Conversations would cover guys or marriage, work, family, church, and an array of other things. Sometimes there would be depth in the discussion and even confessions--things that wouldn't have been revealed in a phone conversation, an email exchange, or even a shopping trip. They were things saved for discussion at this moment over this cup of coffee. <div>On a bad day, I sometimes go to the coffee shop alone. Sometimes it is just a day when I need to "regroup." I need time for myself so that I can continue to be all that is demanded of me: teacher, friend, daughter, sister, a spouse and a mother. </div><div>The speaker's object lesson brought all these things to the forefront of my mind. And then I thought about Biblical descriptions and the children's song about filling our cup with Christ and letting it overflow. I love the connection between these things: between my relationships with others and my relationship with Christ. As I remembered the many wonderful times of friendship and growth and connection over a cup of coffee, I realized that my "cup of life" truly does runneth over. I am blessed by so many friendships and so many memories of friendships over the past few years, and I am encouraged to think and wonder about the cups that will be shared in the future.</div>Rachel C. Clayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01557223908799385917noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6698371.post-42049832112911849482009-09-01T14:23:00.004-04:002009-09-01T14:45:21.488-04:00Connecting: Ecclesiastes 4:9-12<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>We all find ourselves in situations where it is necessary to connect with new people. Sometimes it comes from a move, and sometimes it just comes from life circumstances. In army life (and 3 duty stations in 3 years), I have found the need to make new friends multiple times. Loneliness can be dangerous at any time, but in army life it can be devastating. Loneliness combined with fear (such as that found during deployments) is not a good combination! Today in Bible Study (PWOC, Ft. Bragg), our devotion was on connecting with others and what the Bible has to say. Four truths were presented on what the Bible says about connecting with others. <div><br /></div><div> They came from Ecclesiastes 4:9-12:<div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">(9) Two are better than one, because they have a good reward for their toil. (10) For if they fall, one will lift up his fellow. But woe to him who is alone when he falls and has not another to lift him up! (11) Again, if two lie together, they keep warm, but how can one keep warm alone? (12) And though a man might prevail against one who is alone, two will withstand him--a threefold cord is not quickly broken. </span></div><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>The first truth found in verse 9 is that there is <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">greater reward</span> when we work together or have someone to work with. This practical truth is easily forgotten when we try to "go at something alone." But the Scripture plainly states that the outcome will be better when two (or more) face something together. The second truth presented, found in verse 10, was that connections with others bring <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">timely support</span>. As a wife, my husband is a wonderful source of support; however, as an army wife he cannot always be my "timely support" because I do face moments when he is not around or even unreachable. Therefore, friendship with others is necessary! </div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>The third truth is found in verse 11, and it is <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">mutual comfort</span>. This picture of physical comfort, can help us remember that there are times we need emotional comfort as well. When we are faced with difficult circumstances, how wonderful is it to have a friend who understands and who can encourage us. Finally, the fourth truth is found in verse 12: there is <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">strength in numbers</span>. God didn't create us to face life alone. He meant for us to face it while connected to Him and to others. So many visual illustrations accompany this verse, but we have all faced circumstances that also bring light to this truth. </div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>Today, in a new place, I was reminded how difficult it can be to connect with others, but also I was reminded of its importance. Through all circumstances I must persevere, and find the connections God has for me. In this way, I can fully realize the life that God has for me.</div></div>Rachel C. Clayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01557223908799385917noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6698371.post-10063435460482597992009-08-24T20:19:00.004-04:002009-08-24T20:27:29.306-04:00AddictionsI might be, could be, probably shouldn't be addicted to: Netflix, <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">Make it or Break It</span> (on ABC family), DVR, fast-forwarding commercials, Twilight series, Hummus, FoxNews, Facebook, scrapbooking, blogs, Ohio State Football, Harry Potter, and my Camera.Rachel C. Clayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01557223908799385917noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6698371.post-1097852339900498932009-08-16T21:41:00.004-04:002009-08-16T22:04:14.795-04:00Busy Weekend<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhosyrllvrgqIMAvC8Txv5F8Ks-XZ0oVXmqCYFw0pPCTSasl8q2n5_nxOsEK_NooExG0YpI-J-Ch56zCYnc9L6xVgQtdAJXkMRmWHaturzAOTyrmKDA2-JLyA1-XQgLV7nJhYcHiQ/s1600-h/DSCF1787.JPG"></a><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:Times;"><div style="border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 3px; padding-right: 3px; padding-bottom: 3px; padding-left: 3px; width: auto; font: normal normal normal 100%/normal Georgia, serif; text-align: left; ">This weekend, Nathan's sister and her family came to visit. They have two kids, Madeline age 5 and Nathaniel age 2. We had a busy weekend including a trip the the NC zoo on Saturday. It was a lot of fun. Here are some pictures to show you!</div></span></div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Elizabeth and Madeline baking cookies<br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1X_sTmtGD3ousVyQuuUW2IPxkDxf6AYHrOY6-2k_jClzA5ojKe-wpc8E-Ee8khc3lZknKsgNWXu3Xw9LKpEbyoFCnMvNTJMzO9ZjHVHNADQo9aW6yLyDEB0a-bzZc-fGopM6U6w/s200/DSCF1690.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5370744501939633090" /></div><div style="text-align: center;">At the Zoo. Nathan and Thomas in front of the man made Marsh.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSa4dX59-WoTBo19IsqTHD0h7wzEyPGy8q0l7DUGVRrWxYMlRpXdw1Lofp49zF5OYvRWgmCWPUUZz_xmoqWLTLGPj5f_EUWbLKOT8W-q9iY8t1OLQ0cW6hQdcE6SC0FICgybkCOg/s200/DSCF1698.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5370744513294097234" /></div><div style="text-align: center;">We visited the polar bear. Thomas enjoyed watching the bear and seeing how big he was!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 150px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsoSMTgPyocpKq3bq8J_n4qHh6w02sByBLP5ZyGFgtx3nw8cROTv8Ys6F1ni4_cwt8HLjaqVTNOS-GhrSCjqgoHHPgvxtdrnespzHOHAYPPSe9D4xDvZ6q0h4f7rLIgbLdZGLpLA/s200/DSCF1722.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5370744514785853570" />Enjoying one of my favorite treats, an ICEE!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLkNtl6P2qEZJ_cqRb19j6uQkWekDlWWDfMlxES8IF92zaccQ6-t83-pZAOH2zn2N0sy55qqPC8l5THCGE113C3xoDCBvws6-DVC7IHpzfkPdMUT2ddPyxBepSbXEb58JKo_qjvA/s200/DSCF1758.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5370746361512760514" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px; " /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238);"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;">Family Photo</div><br /><div><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQYCmuQgLb9-SsA_ZgbqNgi04iR1O4NluTOMXcXo7TZz-wVEGYCfWZNYIStsmaWrfw6wpOb9EtsDnHoavroZBsONy127IPGDBp2SwMUOySeLA2HtdcZQsaXvzLc_O1S7b4qhWPgg/s200/DSCF1757.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5370744526776853714" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px; " /><br /></div><div><div style="text-align: center;">A Murphy Family Photo</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkF05o01JtK0BxBN6X_kXtigA_Hc-ClUqXA6bmzDZzA0g_tjETY3OTwdTnxSVrZ-w668aBzZGg8o7plmIim-AeBFYuJZx1cT49k6golLvyHCkdw0U3XXDFagvqkhEnqLzxP0dmEw/s200/DSCF1755.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5370746352075792498" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 150px; height: 200px; " /></span></div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Cousins!</div><div style="text-align: center;">Nathaniel (almost 2), Madeline (almost 5), Thomas (7 months)</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiILN4Bts0CKGWIxxPV9je0r6hemgNocQT8lMVh78T2B5URkT-MKDP7pastD22UjXCnYZMCVrkTuzjteqSLAS80vkXi7aQ4H_Knmnh2yP4FWHEv-DfBjsSXFHLS8HTqbE-P1rl7KQ/s200/DSCF1785.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5370746369199282658" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px; " /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;">The End of a great weekend.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238);"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhosyrllvrgqIMAvC8Txv5F8Ks-XZ0oVXmqCYFw0pPCTSasl8q2n5_nxOsEK_NooExG0YpI-J-Ch56zCYnc9L6xVgQtdAJXkMRmWHaturzAOTyrmKDA2-JLyA1-XQgLV7nJhYcHiQ/s200/DSCF1787.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5370746374959851986" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px; " /></span><br /></div>Rachel C. Clayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01557223908799385917noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6698371.post-33501343193010172422009-08-16T21:32:00.004-04:002009-08-16T21:41:42.333-04:00A Scrapbook Creation<div>I have been wanting to create one of these for awhile. It is a gift card holder. I've had the pattern since March, and have just gotten around to making it. It's a really simple pattern. You have to use thick card stock for the base and strong tape. Then decorate as desired! I love it though because I don't have enough room in my purse for giftcards, so this is great! Mine is a light blue base with purple pockets and brown/blue decorative paper.</div><div>My scrap space is about half finished, but I have enough of a work space to start creating and this was my first creation. I'm currently working on a mini album!</div><div><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdz2EIAj1xjH1xIWXIhj2joLUx8DEKLlX5Qlzyil5vnHOzinhyFGUvAphZwh0GfLqUFN8fa9JS3G-80PoQODTneAJzgoS7_8-VcKg6i6YYCgRm4Tqk7slPepLLF-V1DrX7EC6nRg/s1600-h/DSCF1670.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdz2EIAj1xjH1xIWXIhj2joLUx8DEKLlX5Qlzyil5vnHOzinhyFGUvAphZwh0GfLqUFN8fa9JS3G-80PoQODTneAJzgoS7_8-VcKg6i6YYCgRm4Tqk7slPepLLF-V1DrX7EC6nRg/s320/DSCF1670.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5370740451018661826" /></a><br /><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvMsiR40RuNEGhC5iTZgUmdBF7jzOIRiAYK6giPSdh6jk13OTUZpGftbowMbM2FcHTPlaOPORw5UciN-0fr0QnjA6eMOUmIbuGpfX3EUZSLgZQsif5K6NEmNAfjw2lUMkiumN7zQ/s320/DSCF1671.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5370740461294895794" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px; " /></span></div>Rachel C. Clayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01557223908799385917noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6698371.post-46662744488855932352009-08-12T22:09:00.002-04:002009-08-12T22:19:38.411-04:00I'm a Photo-aholic<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBHKI45aqxjiJnmjdKEbBbQVMva8LKi-NSj-nL8sKlXYnWqOFrrz188U2wgbrE20wvnQT3_XJU-P7pZIXOetDQKscJGai2Y-4HQuc7dk6l9bmjYexGmkz8t9GYeNCMgTmc0-FUoA/s1600-h/s41405cb115577_10$.psd"></a>I admit it. I am addicted to photos. I just cannot seem to say good bye to a photo. I don't know why, but I feel like I will be losing something if I don't save a photo. I have a problem, I know! This problem influenced me today when I took Thomas to get his pictures done at Sears. I have this great saver card that gets me all kinds of deals, and I had a ton of great coupons too, and yet I still bought the package. I admit it. I did. And you know why? The photo cd. I just couldn't bear that one shot of Thomas not be shared with the world! Absolutely pathetic I know. It doesn't help that the professional people's pictures are SO much better than mine (with the help of some amazing cameras and gear). I'm such a pushover though. I knew how much it would cost to get a cd, and I told myself no before I went in. Although it didn't take much convincing, so perhaps I wasn't as firm as I thought. The problem with this addiction is that I can't decide how to deal with. Most of me, just wants to ignore it, I mean after all it's not a bad thing to love photographs of your family. The bad part is, Thomas is only 7 months old and I have a couple thousand pictures of him. Seriously, I do. I don't know if my computer can handle even a few years of this! I have to learn to not be afraid of that delete button! And I have to start saving more to afford the professional photos I just can't give up! Here are a few of my favorites from today!<div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBHKI45aqxjiJnmjdKEbBbQVMva8LKi-NSj-nL8sKlXYnWqOFrrz188U2wgbrE20wvnQT3_XJU-P7pZIXOetDQKscJGai2Y-4HQuc7dk6l9bmjYexGmkz8t9GYeNCMgTmc0-FUoA/s1600-h/s41405cb115577_10$.psd"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBHKI45aqxjiJnmjdKEbBbQVMva8LKi-NSj-nL8sKlXYnWqOFrrz188U2wgbrE20wvnQT3_XJU-P7pZIXOetDQKscJGai2Y-4HQuc7dk6l9bmjYexGmkz8t9GYeNCMgTmc0-FUoA/s200/s41405cb115577_10$.psd" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5369267147925370674" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px; " /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6XMj88AqvJ1-XX_DMhPaX8QDFUtZCMMkrzKcTl4ldpZNP7lrE5lKmUUiIMVNr3ElJfhCYPnW-R0IiNlO0eJl7S2eyGCSuUV2gyc9LHv69RamyoD1suih6P7IDCrq3jCMmQHJxdQ/s1600-h/s41405cb115577_19$.psd"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6XMj88AqvJ1-XX_DMhPaX8QDFUtZCMMkrzKcTl4ldpZNP7lrE5lKmUUiIMVNr3ElJfhCYPnW-R0IiNlO0eJl7S2eyGCSuUV2gyc9LHv69RamyoD1suih6P7IDCrq3jCMmQHJxdQ/s200/s41405cb115577_19$.psd" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5369267141785162898" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px; " /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4M5QWvWUWpWBUsGXL-pOUqefyZL9TG0GNUF_AW12GlWx8erJ-VFFQF-tFQMzWmr8hCN4iSDOkCuHsH01U9BnCbRWtLzviiP7nC-jQGYtMz-EsoZomS4YBYSSw4neBVpX8JJR9Mw/s1600-h/s41405cb115577_8$.psd"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4M5QWvWUWpWBUsGXL-pOUqefyZL9TG0GNUF_AW12GlWx8erJ-VFFQF-tFQMzWmr8hCN4iSDOkCuHsH01U9BnCbRWtLzviiP7nC-jQGYtMz-EsoZomS4YBYSSw4neBVpX8JJR9Mw/s200/s41405cb115577_8$.psd" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5369267137865422802" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px; " /></a></div>Rachel C. Clayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01557223908799385917noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6698371.post-33937964302527962732009-08-11T08:03:00.003-04:002009-08-11T20:26:03.987-04:00HPHBP Loves and Hates (Beware of Spoilers)Well, I took a break from Harry Potter to add a few other fun things to the blog, but I did want to make one final post about <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince</span>. In essence, this will be what I really liked about the film, and what kind of drove me crazy. The opening with Harry at the Underground, is a give and take for me. In some ways, I really enjoyed this creative twist, but I also really missed Dumbledore at the Dursley's. I really wanted to see those clanking glasses of mead on the Dursleys' heads! I'm also glad they kept the introduction of Slughorn relatively the same. I love when they do fun magical things like put the house back together!<div>I also really liked how they handled Ron and his girl problems. It was hilarious to watch his interaction with Lavender Brown, and fun to watch Hermione's reactions. I thought it was a great portrayal and I'm glad they included it; though not vital to the plot of book 7, it's still important. As for Harry and Ginny---well, I enjoyed the first part where Harry is flustered around Ginny; the scene at Slughorn's dinner party was entertaining, but the Christmas scene at the burrow and then the scene in the Room of Requirement, not my favorite! It was so strange and not well explained. It was after the room of requirement that they even mentioned that Ginny had broken up with Dean. So strange. Plus, she's such a strong willed character and I feel as if the movie has portrayed her as weak. :( So, not happy with that at all! </div><div>The scene in the cave was pretty intense, and I did like this. I thought it remained true to the book (other than Harry falling in the water), and was pretty good. However, when they returned to Hogwarts, I was pretty upset that Dumbledore did not freeze Harry. The fact that he could move during the entire scene on the tower frustrated me. If Harry could have moved, it wouldn't have gone down like that; the fact that he was immobilized is vital to that scene. This I suppose was the end of it for me. Really from that point on I was just frustrated at the movie. The lack of a fight, the death scene, and the weird scene with Harry, Hermione, and Ron at the end just didn't do it for me. Sometimes I wish I could better understand why writers and producers choose to do certain things when creating a movie from a book, and the end of <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">Half-Blood Prince</span> was definitely one of those times I didn't understand. </div><div>Having only seen the movie once, I look forward to the next time to "love and hate" it more!</div>Rachel C. Clayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01557223908799385917noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6698371.post-25099978717484033582009-08-09T10:31:00.003-04:002009-08-09T10:35:13.112-04:00I love this photo!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhR6L_FB_ksghl2Dxyf3itN84s8BJTz6L46qWjUmbJvAP9e_YQfgdNDHDg_vyT-X1RrzArBymHplBB9z2_NOnOxgnIgq0pvBVhok9d71ugMxRaHPs917yV37vJnZvp8ZV3Sx6XnLw/s1600-h/DSCF1662.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhR6L_FB_ksghl2Dxyf3itN84s8BJTz6L46qWjUmbJvAP9e_YQfgdNDHDg_vyT-X1RrzArBymHplBB9z2_NOnOxgnIgq0pvBVhok9d71ugMxRaHPs917yV37vJnZvp8ZV3Sx6XnLw/s320/DSCF1662.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5367972358372152226" /></a><br />I love this picture of Thomas taken yesterday! It shows off his beautiful smile!Rachel C. Clayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01557223908799385917noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6698371.post-21548949037443946882009-08-06T08:00:00.001-04:002009-08-06T08:00:05.814-04:00New BookI just bought a new scrapbooking book that I am very excited about. It's called<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"> Outstanding Mini Albums</span> by Jessica Acs. I picked it up at <a href="http://www.acmoore.com/">AC Moore</a> (you can use their coupons on books which is great!) It's hard for me to spend money on stuff like this because I wonder if I will get any use out of it. I usually want some type of review or personal recommendation before buying this stuff. I was about to put this book back on the shelf when I saw three specific mini albums that confirmed I would buy this book. The first was the Coffee Cup Album. Here's a picture from the book. <img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhv8zfvS7c5WPFu2xyOWMPB2yWTYWwFb5lf7m-gDr895b0GU5dxYxiyLjoEDlhd0Gn5o8eY0eamF_9M2UIcrv_v2nQoI2KawUEBKtKEMjcU1PS5W9kwbaXB_nSSCsLtaWu1PhO_Uw/s200/Photo+32.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5366466093969529122" /> (Sorry about the backwards words, but the pictures were taken using the camera on my computer.)<div><br /></div><div>The next album was a Coffee Cup Sleeve Album:<img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEik_J2hNq9kZtvpLFWqirkaTun7HQUN0Pyzl_PR3CBtP5qtu-26N3n3pqbouM8CSx5Mce39u82DM6cdrYnVy-00CsLLc_n83yC-JdVVODlDLf7akAXCwUBvee-S96ZlKZDDeLbWKw/s200/Photo+35.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5366466403615821938" /></div><div><br /></div><div>And finally the Coffee Cup Filter Album: <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3iI8TqaGUCPI_HgYNVdUYn-Htt_5SdxFd-sVBDdk-CpL49XOLAv2rRxUD_QvRsco6nnfsXgNOAcQYjHwTT9jFyfOx2f8vYlNfZNhBaym-Wy7ZLxzDXkmHpsLPJSIzWR9dZuwOcw/s1600-h/Photo+36.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3iI8TqaGUCPI_HgYNVdUYn-Htt_5SdxFd-sVBDdk-CpL49XOLAv2rRxUD_QvRsco6nnfsXgNOAcQYjHwTT9jFyfOx2f8vYlNfZNhBaym-Wy7ZLxzDXkmHpsLPJSIzWR9dZuwOcw/s200/Photo+36.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5366466725178634322" style="cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px; " /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>I figure anyone who loves coffee that much, must have written a pretty good book! And the book gives great instructions on how to cut and put together these albums. Also many of the albums use materials from around the house. I'm looking forward to making my own albums. I think I will have to make one about my love of coffee. I'll be sure to share my creation once it is finished!</div><div><br /></div>Rachel C. Clayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01557223908799385917noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6698371.post-6963204147734518232009-08-05T08:42:00.002-04:002009-08-05T08:53:13.695-04:00Twilight ThoughtsWell, as could be predicted, it didn't take long to finish reading Stephanie Meyer's Twilight. About two days actually! So, I do have to admit that her stories are somewhat addicting! I enjoyed the reading, and I enjoyed wanting to read. Not every book can hold my attention. After some thought there are two conclusions I have come to about Twilight. The first is why it is hard to put the book down. Meyer does an amazing job with her chapters. She structures them so that every one ends in this mini climax. I just had to turn the page to see what happened! And of course, once I did that, I couldn't stop in the middle of a chapter! Perhaps that is just me. Secondly, I thought a lot of what was so addicting about the story. In my mind I compared it to the Harry Potter craze, because they have had some similar reactions (midnight releases, movies, websites, etc). I don't believe the books are as cleverly written as HP; and Meyer does not help me visualize the picture the way Rowling does, but yet Twilight was still a book I couldn't put down. I decided one thing Meyer really has down is that she can tell a love story. She created two characters who love and are loved with such amazing depth and truth; this is the way most of desire to love and be loved. In a world where many of us feel we search a long time for love, we admire, even long, for love like this. For me it helps me appreciate my amazing husband all the more, and as a former teenage girl, I can totally understand their addictions to Edward and Bella.Rachel C. Clayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01557223908799385917noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6698371.post-15873175083669761482009-08-02T21:25:00.002-04:002009-08-02T21:28:34.252-04:00New LookSo, I had no idea how easy it was to get a new look! I'm still working on where exactly I want everything, but I hope you like it. I picked it up as a free template from <a href="http://www.leeloublogs.blogspot.com/">LeeLou Blogs</a>. Rachel C. Clayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01557223908799385917noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6698371.post-67733866096051500392009-07-29T20:39:00.008-04:002009-08-02T20:44:41.525-04:00Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince Part 2<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">I read an excellent review in </span><a href="http://www.worldmag.com/index.cfm"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">World Magazine</span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"> on the movie </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"><a href="http://harrypotter.warnerbros.com/harrypotterandthehalf-bloodprince/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince</span></a></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">. I enjoyed Megan Basham's comments, and I was intrigued by her observation here:</span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"> </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" line-height: 19px; font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">What falls on the cutting-room floor are the elements that were most effective at turning a fanciful series about a boy wizard into an epic tale of good versus evil. Almost all the background on Lord Voldemort—his parentage, his seething resentment toward his own father, his early crimes against his family—are lost, as is much of the narrative that allowed Draco Malfoy (Tom Felton) to grow into more than a one-dimensional school-boy rival. In essence, with an opportunity to give Harry Potter more fleshed-out enemies that will allow him to become a more fleshed-out hero, Yates sticks with juvenile preoccupations of spell-casting and romance.</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" line-height: 19px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 19px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Her observations coincide with what I was trying to get at in my previous post. Brasham mentions how significant this aspect of the plot is in the Harry Potter books--the importance of the war between good and evil. I think this is incredibly important. I LOVE book 7 (more on that another time!), and part of the reason behind that is the age-old story of good winning over evil. It is such an important concept that the book illustrates so well and the movie just didn't focus on. I think it is significant that Harry's life is surrounded by love and sacrifice--that of his father and especially his mother and also Sirius and Dumbledore. The "good" sacrifice that is made for Harry shapes who he is, the decisions he makes, etc. Voldermort has none of this in his life and it shapes him in a completely opposite way creating such a stark contrast between the two characters and ultimately shaping the decisions each one makes. The movie didn't bring much of this to life. Luckily there are still two movies left for this theme to be brought out more. And even luckier, we can always reread the books!</span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 19px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">I wanted to post the link to the review, but only half of the review shows up. If you want to view the entire article, however, I was able to pull up the entire review when I googled "World Magazine Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince" and clicked on the following link from the search engine page: </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" line-height: normal; font-family:Helvetica;"><a href="http://www.worldmag.com/articles/15675"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">http://www.worldmag.com/articles/15675</span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"> </span></span></span></div></div>Rachel C. Clayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01557223908799385917noreply@blogger.com0