Tracy's Scraps

Circle Frames

2009-05-17T08:54:00.007-05:00

We're having a Memorial Day Sale at GroovyScraps!

Also, check out our latest MegaKit, on sale this month for just $3!

Here's a freebie for you. These frames are personal use, but if you want to make your own, get my CU frame templates! These were made using one of my four CU Frame Template sets, available at GroovyScraps, Commercial-Use.com and YourDigitalDesigners.com. Lots of different frame shapes, all layered. Just add your own styles, textures and colors!

Download

“Therefore I also, after I heard of your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love for all the saints, do not cease to give thanks for you, making mention of you in my prayers...”
(Ephesians 1:15-16)

Fenced In

2009-04-11T19:43:00.005-05:00

Happy Easter!!!! I actually have a template for you! It's called Fenced In, and I hope you like it!

I'm still having problems with Paint Shop Pro, so I think I'll just stick with Photoshop and PNG. Sorry if this causes any trouble.

Download:
Photoshop
PNG

Isn't my Godmother's horse a cutie?

Blessings!
Tracy

Romans 1:4-5
And Jesus Christ our Lord was shown to be the Son of God when God powerfully raised him from the dead by means of the Holy Spirit. Through Christ, God has given us the privilege and authority to tell Gentiles everywhere what God has done for them, so that they will believe and obey him, bringing glory to his name.

BLOG TRAIN!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2009-04-01T11:40:00.006-05:00

It's Blog Train time!!! This is my first try at DST's monthly Blog Train. Here's my part for April, called Spring Blossoms. Hope you enjoy it!

Download it, and then go visit Brandi, the next stop on the Blog Train Express!!!

Blessings!
Tracy

Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love him. Let no one say when he is tempted, “I am being tempted by God,” for God cannot be tempted with evil, and he himself tempts no one. But each person is tempted when he is lured and enticed by his own desire. Then desire when it has conceived gives birth to sin, and sin when it is fully grown brings forth death.
(James 1:12-15)

Remember the Alamo!

2009-03-07T13:32:00.002-06:00

I tried to get this to you yesterday, but it was Saturday morning before I knew it!

Yesterday was Alamo Day!

-- What's that mean?

Alamo Day remembers Texas' loss of the Battle of the Alamo.

-- Loss? Texas lost the battle?

Yep! Texas lost.

-- Why would you want to remember a battle that you lost???

I'm glad you asked that question! The famous battle took place during the Texas Revolution, otherwise known as the War of Independence from Mexico. While Mexico had a large, well-trained group of soldiers, Texas fought with mostly civilians - white, black, native and mexican.

Between February 23, 1836 and March 6, 1836, a batallion of less than 200 men defended the mission called the Alamo, while a well-equipped Army of 6000 soldiers under the command of Antonio Lopez de Santa Anna attacked from all four sides. The Texians held off the Mexican Army for 13 days, led by James Bowie (of Bowie knife fame) and then William Barret Travis. 189 men vs. 6000! You could say they put up one helluva fight! On the morning of March 6, an assault of 1800 menu pounced the mission and broke through the defenses and the Texians could no longer hold out.

All fighting Texian men at the Alamo died by that last day. Among the dead were James Bowie, William Travis and David "Davy" Crockett, Tennessee frontiersman and Congressman. The official number is 189, but the count may be as high as 257. Santa Anna lost around 600.

-- Where does the phrase "Remember the Alamo" come from?

The Battle of the Alamo was more than just a loss for the Texians, it was a wake-up call for Mexico - the Texians were more of a force than they realized. It also encouraged the rest of Texas to keep up the fight. Just a few short weeks later, the Texians fought and won their independence in the Battle of San Jacinto, crying out as they charged, "Remember the Alamo!" (We won that battle!)

Find out more about the Battle of the Alamo:
http://www.thealamo.org/history.html
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Battle_of_the_Alamo
http://www.tshaonline.org/handbook/online/articles/AA/qea2.html

Come back in April and I'll tell you how a prostitute helped us win our independence from Mexico!

To celebrate (a day late) Alamo Day, I've made this wordart for your Alamo or Texas layouts. :D

Download

Hope you enjoy it! Blessings!

Tracy

Happy Texas Independence Day!

2009-03-02T10:22:00.001-06:00

Don't miss out on our Site Support Team Contest! You get a free kit just for playing! More info on this thread.

It's Texas Independence Day! Yep, 173 years ago today Texas declared its independence from Mexico! And if things keep going the way they are now, we may have to do it again soon. Learn more about Texas Independence here.

So to honor today, I'm posting this freebie. These are some items that may or may not wind up in a new Texas themed kit I've been working on, but in any event, they're yours today free!

Download

Hope you enjoy the download, and feel free to send me your layouts! I'll post them here. I know I haven't been posting the wonderful layouts y'all have been sending lately, and I apologize. I've just been so busy that my blog has taken a back seat. But I really want to get back to doing my weekly templates and talking to all my friends here on the blog more often.

Blessings!
Tracy

The Ten Commandments - Texas Style!

(1) Just one God.
(2) Honor yer Ma & Pa.
(3) No tellin' tales or gossipin'.
(4) Git yourself to Sunday meetin'.
(5) Put nothin' before God.
(6) No foolin' around with another fellow's gal.
(7) No killin.'
(8) Watch yer mouth.
(9) Don't take what ain't yers.
(10) Don't be hankerin' for yer buddy's stuff.

Mardi Gras!

2009-02-26T11:35:00.003-06:00

Storytime!

Do you like to write? We have this really neat story going on in our forums. It's called Smiley's Story because you have to use a smiley somewhere in your entry. Here's the beginning:

It was a blistery hot day, and even the wild critters gave up scurrying around to find some comfortable shade trees. I was bored out of my mind and wanted to get out of the house but it was just too dang hot! So I decided to go up into the attic to see what I could find. I lived in a 1908 Victorian that had been renovated a few times over the years. Still, there were items left by previous owners up there in the dusty attic.

As I made my way up the creaky stairs, I reminded myself that I still hadn't fixed that one noisy step. One of these days I'm going to fall and break my neck, I thought. As I opened the door to the attic, the musty scent of history closed in around me. It was dark - too dark for such a hot, sunny day. This room must have great insulation for such an old house. The windows were painted as well. It was spooky and I shivered despite the suffocating heat. I felt around for the pull string on the single lightbulb. As the light filled the room, a roomful of history filled my eyes. There was a...

Wanna read more and maybe add to it? You're welcome to join us!

Would you like to have this pretty Date Night mini kit? You can have it FREE! All you have to do is participate in my Scraplift Challenge! Also, there are other coordinating mini kits if you do more challenges. But hurry - this is February's challenge and February is a SHORT month.

My latest Grab Bag is almost gone - so I've revealed it for the last couple of days. BUT if you get over there in the next 24 hours, you can still get it for the hidden price of $3! After that, I'm raising it to $5. So get over there post haste!

Here are the previews:

Ok, I do have a freebie for you today!

Download

Check out my layout! It was done with the Mardi Gras kit by Russian-Dutch Heart Design. Real cute kit!

Blessings!
Tracy

One day a group of scientists got together and decided that man had come a long way and no longer needed God. So they picked one scientist to go and tell Him that they were done with Him.

The scientist walked up to God and said, "God, we've decided that we no longer need you. We're to the point that we can clone people and do many miraculous things, so why don't you just go on and get lost."

God listened very patiently and kindly to the man and after the scientist was done talking, God said, "Very well, how about this, let's say we have a man making contest." To which the scientist replied, "OK, great!"

But God added, "Now, we're going to do this just like I did back in the old days with Adam."

The scientist said, "Sure, no problem" and bent down and grabbed himself a handful of dirt.

God just looked at him and said, "No, no, no. You go get your own dirt!"

Diva Alphas

2009-02-12T12:33:00.001-06:00

Hey y'all!

Don't forget our Grab Bags Sale! Lots to choose from!

Also, check out this month's MegaKit! It's called Let's Go to the Movies and it's on sale for just $3.00 through the end of the month.

I have some cute alphas for you today. Hope you like them! They're called Diva Alphas, and would look great on your girly layouts, but I think they'll work for Valentine layouts too. Enjoy!

Download

Blessings!
Tracy

Don't be deceived, my dear brothers. Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows. He chose to give us birth through the word of truth, that we might be a kind of first fruits of all he created.
James 1:16-17

Forever Template

2009-02-01T11:26:00.006-06:00

We're having a Grab Bag sale! 10 brand new Grab Bags, both personal and commercial use!

I have a template for you today - I couldn't wait until Tuesday! It's called Forever and it's to scrap a pic of you and your Valentine, your parents or any other loving couple you know.

Oh, and I think I got my Paint Shop Pro working again!

Download:
Paint Shop Pro
Photoshop
PNG

Here's my layout, done with Kim Cameron's ADORABLE Puppy Love kit! Awwwww!

Blessings!
Tracy

“He who seeks good finds goodwill…” Proverbs 11:27

CT Call for Kim & Tracy!

2009-01-25T17:00:00.003-06:00

Kim and I are combining our CT's and we're looking for some ladies who love to create layouts. If you join our team, you'll get a choice of BOTH our kits for free!

Tracy's Kits
Kim's Kits

If interested, email Kim.

Blessings!
Tracy

Bracket Template

2009-01-14T21:56:00.009-06:00

Got a template for you today! But first, I have an awesome site for you. If you haven't seen it yet, you need to.

I Am Second is a website that has some incredible life stories, and its presentation is pretty darn cool too! You might even recognize a few faces. Why is it called "I Am Second"? You'll have to go there to find out.

And I have a NEW kit in the store! It's called Whodunit? and it's on sale right now for just $2.00!!!

Check out what's been done with this kit so far, wow!

Today's template is called Bracket. Well, cause it has a bracket on it and I'm not good at naming things!

Download

Check out my layout!

This layout was done using BiebelsScraps' cute kit called First Glance!

Blessings!
Tracy

A joyful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones.
(Proverbs 17:22)

It's a New Year!

2009-01-07T08:32:00.006-06:00

Yep, it's a brand new year! I hope all of you have a safe, happy and fun-filled 2009!

I've been majorly swamped so far though... we're getting ready to make some cosmetic changes to GroovyScraps - stay tuned! - and my whole family has had the tummy flu. Not fun, but we're all healthy now.

We had a small, yet still expensive Christmas. My daughter got her class ring in her stocking (boy did Santa spend a small fortune on that thing!) and I got my Ancestry.com subscription renewed. I can't live without it - anyone who knows me will attest to that.

I wish I had found this site before Christmas, it would have been great to share with you then! But it'll still be fun to look at now. It's called Coolest-Gadgets.com and WOW do they have some awesome and even weird stuff on there! There's even a Gadget of the Week and you get to vote. I had fun looking around at all the wild inventions that people have conjured up. And there's a great section on Gadget Gift Ideas! Plan to spend some time here.

I have a new challenge this month at GroovyScraps! It's called "I'm Nearly Famous" and if you play you'll get my part of the new "Let's Go to the Movies" MegaKit! Here's the prize:

I haven't had a lot of time or energy to design, but I do have a little something for you today. I was playing with some freeware filters I found on the Internet, just to see what they would do. I liked the results so I thought I'd offer them to you! Here's 5 overlays that are free and are commercial use too.

Download these overlays if you'd like! I have to run now, but tomorrow I'll have something else for you that I've been working on, plus some absolutely beautiful layouts that were sent to me! I haven't posted layouts in awhile and I sure miss them too.

Thanks for stopping by! Blessings!
Tracy

Psalm 39:4-7
“O Lord, make me know my end
and what is the measure of my days;
let me know how fleeting I am!
Behold, you have made my days a few handbreaths,
And my lifetime is nothing before you.
Surely all mankind stands as a mere breath!
Surely a man goes about as a shadow!
Surely for nothing they are in turmoil;
Man heaps up wealth and does not know who will gather!”

“And now, O Lord, for what do I wait?
My hope is in you.”

Merry Christmas!

2008-12-24T12:06:00.006-06:00

I hope everyone has a safe and happy Christmas! I know the economy isn't that great this year, but let's keep our eyes and hearts on the reason for the season instead of all those gifts we didn't get, it won't seem so bad.

I do have a gift for you (and it didn't cost anything but my time!)

Download

Blessings!
Tracy

And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call his name JESUS: for he shall save his people from their sins.
{Matthew 1:21}

2 Templates!

2008-12-20T05:38:00.008-06:00

Before we get to the freebies, I'd like to ask you for help for a friend. Lisa's had a very rough year that has included family, health and financial issues, so you can imagine the migraines she's had. Now her car is dead and she needs help getting it fixed or getting a replacement car. Her kids may even have to go without Christmas presents because of this!

You can help by buying her ENTIRE STORE, including commercial use items, full and tagger sized kits and more, for just $15. Lisa has well over $400 worth of stuff in the GroovyScraps store, and this price is practically giving it away, but it will sure help her right now.

Please show your Spirit of Christmas! See her blog for more details. See what you can get:

All this and a lot more! If you can't help financially, please keep Lisa and her family in your prayers. Thank you and God Bless!

Now, on to the freebies!! I'm taking a family trip today, so I'm posting a partial blog entry. I'll do the rest when I get back. Hope that's ok! The first template is called Play:

Not sure who the kids are... I snatched the pics from a photo site! lol! But the kit is Kim Cameron's Exploring My Backyard. Isn't it cute?

Download:
Photoshop

The next template is called Hugged!

Download:
Photoshop

I DO have a kid in this one. She's the one on the right. :)

I hope everyone has a wonderful Christmas and a safe Holiday Season! I wish blessings on you and your families.

Luke 2:9-12
And an angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were filled with fear. And the angel said to them, “Fear not, for behold, I bring you good news of a great joy that will be for all the people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. And this will be a sign for you: you will find a baby wrapped in swaddling cloths and lying in a manger.”

Happy Birthday To Me!

2008-12-05T08:47:00.005-06:00

Wow, you would not believe what my scrappin' friends have done! Apparently they have been planning for a MONTH to throw me a surprise party! And it worked, because I had NO idea!

I'm still so stunned that I'm speechless, and if you ask my friends you'll know that's a very tough thing to do. LOL!

First, I got some SUPER cute layouts/birthday cards. See them in the GroovyScraps gallery. I love them all, but the Bobby Ewing one has made me giggle all morning!

Then they got me a gift certificate to Monica Larsen's store. Monica even pitched in too! I can't wait to go shopping!!!!

Next, I found out that a bunch of people made some FREEBIES for me, and we're sharing them with you!!!! There all loaded in the Birthday folder in the store, so you'll need to scroll down a bit. :) Believe me, they're adorable and worth the download!!!

My WONDERFUL friend Candie has also made something for me too! She is one of the sweetest people I know, so if you've never visited her blog, definitely check it out! And see the birthday mini kit she made for me, and download it for yourself. :D

I did this layout using a little something from each kit.

My family has stuff for me too, but so far I've received just a card from my daughter. She made it completely from scratch and put some lovely words in there - made me all sniffly too. I think they're taking me for Japanese food tonight. I think this is the best birthday I've had in years!!!

Hugs and blessings to all... thank you for stopping by!
Tracy

For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God.
(Ephesians 2:8)

Christmas Mini

2008-12-01T09:57:00.002-06:00

Oh Holy Scrap! GroovyScraps is having a SALE!

Get my entire store for 50% Off!!!

We also have a Christmas Daily Download starting today! FREE!!!

I have a little Christmas Mini kit for you today. Hope you can use it!!

Download

Blessings!
Tracy

I rejoice greatly in the Lord that at last you have renewed your concern for me. Indeed, you have been concerned, but you had no opportunity to show it. I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do everything through him who gives me strength.
(Philippians 4: 10-13)

Fall Brads

2008-11-22T12:02:00.006-06:00

Here are some brads for you, in autumn/fall colors. Use them for flower centers, tag holders, whatever you want! They're even CU!!! Enjoy!

Download

Blessings!
Tracy

“Be still, and know that I am God. I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth!”
(Psalm 46:10)

Been away, but I'm back!

2008-11-16T09:57:00.005-06:00

I know I've been gone for awhile, but between the election (I was an election clerk and volunteer, and no my guy didn't win), football (daughter's in the band), choir (yeah, daughter again), being offline for almost a week and a HUGE list of other activities that I'm SURE y'all don't give a bunny's butt about, I just couldn't get to my blog.

But I am back and I DO have a template for you! I decided not to wait until Tuesday since I made you wait so long.

First though, I have to force an AD on you! (he he) I have TWO MegaKits to tell you about. The first one is a charity kit for MS. It's called My Strength. You don't have to have MS or know anyone with it to use this kit. We made it pretty generic, and it's absolutely lovely!!! It's only $6 and all profits go to MS. One of our designers suffers from this horrible disease, so this topic is near and dear to us. Please help out if you can.

The next one is the new monthly MegaKit called Apple Harvest, and it's on sale 50% Off through November. Only $3!!! It's great for autumn, Thanksgiving, family get-togethers and even Christmas. You MUST have this kit!!!

Now for the template. Finally huh? It's the third in the Big Picture line.

Like it? Download:
Paint Shop Pro
Photoshop
PNG

Oh, I have a favor to ask!!!!
Apparently some of my links are broken. I keep almost all my links active and for some reason, over time, they go away. Please contact me if you find any broken links so I can fix them! Just leave a comment to let me know.

My layout was done with the GroovyScraps.com MegaKit called Victorian Lace. It's a GORGEOUS kit!!!!!

Love my kitty? Isn't he adorable? His name is Niko and he's one of two new kittens we have. The other one is solid black and her name is Kira. My daughter's an anime fan, can you tell?

I promise I'll be around more often. :)

Blessings!
Tracy

Romans 8:31
What, then, shall we say in response to this? If God is for us, who can be against us?

Halloween Template

2008-10-26T09:41:00.004-05:00

Ready for Halloween? Yep, me too! I have a template for you to scrap photos of those little ghosts 'n goblins running around.

Download:
Paint Shop Pro (coming soon)
Photoshop
PNG (coming soon)

This is my baby Casey at age 2. :D

Blessings!
Tracy

But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness. (Galatians 5:22)

Two Freebies!

2008-10-13T07:05:00.007-05:00

Actually THREE freebies, if you stop by and get today's Halloween Daily Download!

Get my latest template!!!

Download sample item for free here. The sample is personal use only.

Today's SECOND freebie is a commercial use alpha! It has a glassy-stone texture on it and you can recolor it, add patterns or edges, just don't distribute them as-is. Enjoy!

Download

Blessings!
Tracy

We have this day restored the Sovereign, to Whom alone men ought to be obedient. He reigns in heaven and ... from the rising to the setting sun may His Kingdom come.
~Samuel Adams, Governor of Massachusettes, 1793-1797 and Founding Father of the United States.

Sunrays Template

2008-10-08T09:11:00.002-05:00

Hey everyone! GroovyScraps.com is having a Designer Call!

For more info, see this thread:
http://www.groovyscraps.com/forums/showthread.php?t=148

PickensPlan.com

If you're not familiar with T. Boone Pickens, he's a Texas Oil and Gas multi-billionaire. He has a new plan to incorporate more solar and wind power to reduce dependence on foreign oil. An oilman pushing wind power? Yep! My family was in oil too, and I think this is a great plan. Much better than ethanol and bio-diesel. Sun and wind are completely clean, renewable and abundant.

And yes, I do think we should drill in the U.S. - onshore and off. :)

Today's Template is called Sunrays. Great for nature and garden shots, beach photos, or anything that brings a ray of sunshine in your life!

Download:
Paint Shop Pro
Photoshop
PNG

My layout is of this moth I found on the bush in front of my house. He was sleeping, so I was able to get pretty close. I even measured him! Wing tip to wing tip, 5 inches wide!!! Wow, he was huge! You see those circles on his wings? They're transparent. I could see the leaves through them.

Have fun with this template! Blessings!
Tracy

“Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us.” (Hebrews 12:1)

Daily Halloween Freebie

2008-09-30T23:03:00.003-05:00

Get a HUGE Vintage Halloween kit free with our Daily Download, starting right now! NOTE: You must be logged into our Forums for the links to work. If you need to register, click on the Register link in our Forums.

To get you started, Lisa has a freebie for you! Don't miss out on this - it's not in any of the daily downloads!
http://sassyscrapsbylisa.blogspot.com/2008/09/vintage-halloween-daily-download-and.html

And boy do we have a challenge for you! Win a free kit in our Halloween Decor contest. Scrap a layout of your best Halloween decorations and you could win any kit in our store. See this thread for more details.

Blessings!
Tracy

Hangin' Around 5

2008-09-30T10:04:00.007-05:00

Gotta share this! Just don't get mad if it gets stuck in your head. lol!

Everyone seems to really love the Hangin' Around templates, so I made a new one! This template is actually TWO templates, you can have either a horizontal or vertical photo - or make a two-pager. Hope you like it!

Download:
Paint Shop Pro
Photoshop
PNG

The font is called Care Bear Family and it can be found here. The Photoshop template has a vector title, but I was unable to make the text vector in the Paint Shop Pro version. Sorry about that, but it looks like I'll need to reload PSP yet again!

My layout was done with Chanin's WAY TOO CUTE kit called Orbit.

Thanks for stopping by! Blessings!
Tracy

I will say to the Lord, “My refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.”
(Psalm 91:2)

Football Fever!

2008-09-18T21:22:00.004-05:00

If there's one thing we like in Texas, it's High School Football! I'm listening to my home team's broadcast now - don't you love technology? But of course, we also have the DALLAS COWBOYS!!! Did you see the game on Monday night? Wasn't that exciting????

Download:
Paint Shop Pro
Photoshop
PNG

I know I'll get some hate mail for this, but yes, I love the Cowboys! I was born an (mostly) raised in Dallas, so they ARE my home team.

Blessings!
Tracy

Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ.
(Galatians 2)

Heritage 2 Template

2008-09-11T09:17:00.010-05:00

Today's template is called Heritage 2.

Download:
Paint Shop Pro
Photoshop
PNG

The font is Mary Jane Antique.

My layout was done with my new kit called Jealousy, on sale through the end of September for just $2.00!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Everyone knows today is the 7th anniversary of 9/11. No matter where you are in the world, this event has affected you in some way. The World Trade Center in New York was not just American, there were people in there from all over. Please keep the victims and their friends and family members in your prayers on this difficult day. God Bless.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Thanks for stopping by! See you tonight at the chat!
Tracy

You make known to me the path of life; in your presence there is fullness of joy; at your right hand are pleasures forevermore. (Psalm 16:11)

Flowers & Boxes 2 Template

2008-09-02T14:51:00.002-05:00

Got a new template for you!

Download:
Paint Shop Pro
Photoshop
PNG

My layout was done with a kit called Tranquil by Stephanie Staker. It's on sale right now too!

Blessings!
Tracy

And the life I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.
(Galatians 2:20b)

Happy Birthday Sweet Sixteen!

2008-09-01T14:31:00.003-05:00

It's Back to School time at GroovyScraps! We're having a 25% off Sale and a chat on Thursday!

My daughter Casey turned 16 on Friday! She's driving on her own now! Yes, I'm nervous, but she's a pretty good driver. Still, I pray several times a day for her safety!

To celebrate her 16th birthday, I made this WordArt:

Download

In case you're wondering, these are lyrics from Neil Sedaka's "Happy Birthday Sweet Sixteen." It's been stuck in my head for days now!

Blessings!
Tracy

Live so that your friends can defend you but never have to.
~ Arnold H. Glasow

Circled Template

2008-08-26T21:34:00.005-05:00

Howdy y'all!

I do have a template for you today, honest! It's called Circled, and I hope you like it!

Download:
Paint Shop Pro
Photoshop
PNG

My layout was done with our Groovy MegaKit, on sale now for just $3.

Yeah, that's me. LOL!

Blessings!
Tracy

I will lie down and sleep in peace, for you alone, O Lord, make me dwell in safety.
(Psalms 4:8)

Noteboard Template

2008-08-12T22:37:00.005-05:00

I know I didn't do a template last week, it's just been really crazy here lately. I'll come up with something extra this week to make up for it!

I called this one Noteboard because Message Board was too long. But you get the idea! :D

The background texture is optional, but I thought y'all might enjoy it. It was made using a pattern by Obsidian Dawn. The font is called Prime Minister of Canada by Ray Larabie. Get it here.

Download:
Paint Shop Pro
Photoshop
PNG

I used a kit called Jasper by Sherri Tierney.

Blessings!
Tracy

Whatever you do, work at it with all of your heart, as working for the Lord.
(Col. 3:23)

Grand Opening is Here!

2008-08-03T08:12:00.004-05:00

Yes, it's finally here! Actually it got here on Friday, but for some reason my blog was marked as a SPAM BLOG! And they locked me out! Can you believe that??? I had to report it for review and then they unlocked it for me. Of all the days for that to happen - our grand opening day.

But it's all good now. It'll be even better if you visit my new website! Kim Cameron and I (and all our wonderful designers) have been working very hard getting this website up and running, and we would love to share it with you.

There are some fun games, polls, a scavenger hunt, and a 50% off almost EVERYTHING in the store sale! We have some great challenges, and check back for chat times (with freebies of course).

To celebrate the grand opening, I have made some FREE (yes, I said FREE) commercial use flourishes!

Get them free at GroovyScraps.com

These will only be available for a short time, so get them now. While you're there, look around at all the other awesome stuff you can get for 50% off!

Blessings!
Tracy

I am simply trying as best I can and as fast as God gives me light to do the job I believe He has given me in trust to do.
~George Washington Carver

Flower Shoppe 2

2008-07-30T09:11:00.005-05:00

Yes, I'm a day late! I was having internet problems yesterday - yuck! I've also been super busy getting everything ready for the store's grand opening. We'll be having a 50% off sale starting Friday to kick things off!

We also have a GROOVY MegaKit that you can WIN in a scavenger hunt! Check back on Friday for details. Here's a preview:

Today's template is a sequel to Flower Shoppe, aptly named Flower Shoppe 2. I'm not real imaginable am I?

Download:
Paint Shop Pro
Photoshop
PNG

The font used for the title and journaling is called Saginaw, and you can download it here.

My layout was done with Ashalee Wall's adorable Vintage Flower kit!

Her hair is naturally curly by the way. When you see her in photos with straight hair, she's had to use a straightener to get that look. This was natural!

Blessings!
Tracy

"Look up, get up and don't ever give up."
Michael Irvin, 2007 Pro Football Hall of Fame speech

CU Freebie!

2008-07-27T11:10:00.002-05:00

I have a commercial use freebie for you today!

Download

Blessings!
Tracy

Learn to do good; seek justice, correct oppression; bring justice to the fatherless, plead the widow’s cause.
(Isaiah 1:17)

Coming Soon: GroovyScraps.com Grand Opening!

2008-07-26T07:28:00.006-05:00

In one week, GroovyScraps.com will have its Grand Opening! There will be games, prizes, sales... you can't miss it!

Ok, I had to share this with you.

My daughter's band has written their first song!!! Check it out (she's the drummer).

Ok, the sound quality isn't great, but not bad for a little camera in our loft right?

Come back later for a freebie!

Tracy

Zoom 3 Template

2008-07-23T13:24:00.005-05:00

I'm zoomin' again!!!

First... the SITE OF THE DAY!!

Obsidian Dawn! You will LOVE her brushes and patterns. Best of all they're free! Even for commercial use... you just have to give her credit and link back to her site. Isn't that generous? Her brushes are in Photoshop format, but also in PNG for people who use other programs. She also has some free scrapbooking stuff.

Today's template is the 3rd in the Zoom series. The lace overlay was done with a pattern I got from Obsidian Dawn's lace pattern collection. It's included separately from the PSD/PSP files to save space.

Download:
Paint Shop Pro
Photoshop
PNG

The font I used is called 39 Smooth (It's apparently based on the Green Day font, but it doesn't look much like the font on the album cover). You can find it here:
http://www.dafont.com/39smooth.font

My layout was done with my Lavender & Sage kit, and you can find it at my store.

As Hurricane Dolly hits South Texas and Mexico, please pray for the safety of all those who stayed behind, and for as little destruction as possible.

Blessings!
Tracy

But now, Lord, what do I look for?
My hope is in you.
(Psalm 39:7)

In Stitches 3

2008-07-15T19:42:00.007-05:00

My goodness how time flies! It was Tuesday before I knew it!!!

Look at what Jaya did with the Stripes template! Isn't this adorable? Thanks Jaya!!!

IT'S MAD!!!!!!!! Well, it's Mid Month Madness at DigiByDesign. See what you can get for 98 cents each!

Did you know you can still get my Commercial Use Grab Bag for only $2?

Get it at GroovyScraps, DigiByDesign, ScrapProfessor or YourDigitalDesigners!

Did you also know that someone has revealed my bag? If you want to take a peek inside my bag, check it out here. Then go buy it cause it's a STEAL at $2!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Have you ever tried looking for just that PERFECT kit, and you had to look at SITE after SITE after SITE? Check out this website: Digital Scrapbook Previews. It looks just like your average gallery - and it is the same gallery software that almost every digiscrap site uses - but it's filled with previews of kits, grab bags, sales, contests, designer calls... you name it!
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

I'm going to be taking over the Sketch-Ability Challenge at ScrapProfessor.com! I'm going to be using this week's template for the challenge, so stop in and join me! Please????

Download:
Paint Shop Pro
Photoshop
PNG

Thanks again to Kim Cameron for helping me with the Paint Shop Pro version.

My layout was done with my 50's Diner kit. I also rotated it 90 degrees. Have you ever tried that with templates?

Blessings!
Tracy

The love of God is like the Amazon River flowing down to water one daisy.
- Anonymous

Award? For Lil Ol' Me?

2008-07-09T08:31:00.004-05:00

Yes! I've been nominated TWICE for this awesome award!!!!!

Scrappin A Latte' and our friendly Scrapoholic Nexa have both nominated me. Wow! What an honor!!! Thanks ladies!

Apparently I get to nominate some folks too.

Rules
1. The winner can put the logo on her blog.
2. Link the person you received your award from.
3. Nominate at least 7 other blogs.
4. Put links of those blogs on yours.
5. Leave a message on the blogs of the girls you've nominated.

My nominees are:
Kim Cameron, who is always so helpful and generous on her blog.
Lisa, the Sassiest Scrapper I know! Not to mention one of the cutest!
Candie - who I swear runs at 300 miles an hour, but still slows down long enough to give everyone a hug.
Dawn, who makes the CUTEST travel-themed templates I have ever seen!

I could go on and on but unfortunately I've run out of time for now. We get to go buy a keyboard for my daughter today! She's taking piano lessons.

Oh, and that reminds me -
the SITE OF THE DAY!

This guy's site is called webpianoteacher.com. He has some videos on YouTube.com as well, that get you started, but for full songs you need to subscribe to his site.

His techniques are very different, but they seem to be very effective. My daughter picked this up FAST!
My Immortal
1000 Miles

Off to go shopping! Blessings!
Tracy

Something's in My Pocket

2008-07-08T18:33:00.008-05:00

And it's a new template!!!! :D

But before you can get to it, you have to check out these cute layouts from my friends!!!! And do a poll!

We're trying to figure out what to call the Designers at GroovyScraps. Check out the answers in this poll and let us know what you like.

Kat (Tragedy Anne) is one of the most creative scrappers I know! And darn cute too! Look at her in this layout!!! (Window Pane 4)

Sanna has used a few of my templates! Look what she did with the Heritage template.... very sweet! Check out her blog to see the others!

This week's template... ta da!!!! Pocketed!

Download:
Paint Shop Pro
Photoshop
PNG

The fonts are Angelina and GrutchShaded. Designers: seems this last font is "swapware." All he asks is that you send a copy of what you made. Sounds like a deal to me!

Special thanks to Kim Cameron for helping me with the Paint Shop Pro copy of the template. My PSP is messing up big time!

My layout...

Blessings!
Tracy

And without faith it is impossible to please him, for whoever would draw near to God must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who seek him.
(Hebrews 11:6)

Stone Stars

2008-07-04T15:24:00.005-05:00

I don't have a lot of time today (cooking, cleaning, etc.), but I do have a gift for you!!! It's a collection of stars with different stone and brick textures. Hope you can use them! I'll have some layouts from my friends that I'll post this weekend.

Download

Blessings!
Tracy

“Now the Lord is the spirit, and where the spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom.”
(2 Cor. 3:17)

Window Pane 4

2008-07-01T19:22:00.004-05:00

I have been going CRAZY! My Internet went down late saturday night and it didn't come back up until this afternoon. I was SO not happy!!!

But I'm happy now - it's back!!!

I have a couple of super cute layouts to share with you too. Check 'em out!

Lisa used the Sunset on the Island template! Isn't this adorable?

Oh wow, look at Deb's BEAUTIFUL layout using the Beautiful template!

Thanks ladies! Wonderful layouts!!!

Today's template is part 4 in the Window Pane series. I hope you like it!

Download:
Paint Shop Pro
Photoshop
PNG

The fonts are Angelina and Acknowledgement.

My layout was done with lauraskathi's cute Julia kit!

Thanks for stopping by, and don't forget to check out my $2 CU Grab Bag!

Blessings!
Tracy

When the Counselor comes, whom I will send to you from the Father, the Spirit of truth who goes out from the Father, he will testify about me.
(John 15:26)

Stripes Fix!

2008-06-28T07:58:00.002-05:00

Oh wow, I didn't realize that my Stripes PSD template had a problem!!! It's fixed now. Here's the link if you want to get it again.

Thanks to Patricia for pointing this out!

http://www.4shared.com/file/50884847/be40d3f5/dranet-StripesPSD.html

Out of This World!!!

2008-06-26T23:18:00.003-05:00

You just GOTTA check out Kim Cameron's new Out of This World kit! Isn't it the CUTEST space kit you've ever seen???

And can you believe it's only $3.99? She's practically giving it away!

There are some spacey, matching alphas too.

I couldn't wait to get my hands on this kit.... :D

I'll have a freebie for you very soon, so check back! Blessings!
Tracy

For the time is coming when people will not endure sound teaching, but having itching ears they will accumulate for themselves teachers to suit their own passions, and will turn away from listening to the truth and wander off into myths. As for you, always be sober-minded, endure suffering, do the work of an evangelist, fulfill your ministry.

But understand this, that in the last days there will come times of difficulty. For people will be lovers of self, lovers of money, proud, arrogant, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy, heartless, unappeasable, slanderous, without self-control, brutal, not loving good, treacherous, reckless, swollen with conceit, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God, having the appearance of godliness, but denying its power. Avoid such people.
(2 Timothy 4:3-5, 3:1-5)

Heritage Template & Chat

2008-06-24T08:12:00.006-05:00

Are you a genealogy nut like I am? I LOVE researching my family history! I inherited a bunch of photos from my Grandmother and I have been able to identify a huge amount of them, but not all.

Oh, before I go on, PLEASE JOIN ME in my CHAT on Wednesday night at 8pm Central at DigiByDesign. I have a GREAT gift for you!!!!!! I have a brand new kit and I've created a couple of add-ons.

First, here's my new kit, and it's only $4.00 (but it'll be 50% off on Wednesday!)

Buy this kit at DigiByDesign or GroovyScraps.com.

Just for attending the chat, you'll get this mini, items that are NOT included in the original kit ~

If you post a layout using the attendance gift and/or the original kit you'll get another gift!!!!

Today's SOTD is actually a collection of websites.... the U.S. GenWeb sites! There's a GenWeb site for every state and county, and get this - THEY'RE FREE! Some have a ton of info, others not so much. But you'll just have to go look.

The starting point for the U.S. GenWeb project is http://usgenweb.org/. There are links on the left side to each state, which will link you to your research counties.

You can also search the archives of the U.S. GenWeb here:
http://usgwarchives.org/

I found this helpful, but it's even more helpful to visit each state and county.

Note: Rootsweb.com is the primary hosting service for most of the free county sites. Right now Rootsweb is undergoing a huge upgrade and many of the search engines are affected. But I was looking for some information this past weekend and didn't have any trouble.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
This week's template is on the same theme - your family Heritage.

Download:
Paint Shop Pro
Photoshop
PNG

The font for the title was done with Chopin Script and can be found here:
http://www.dafont.com/chopin-script.font
ATTENTION DESIGNERS!!! It's Public Domain!

My layout was done with a kit called Remember When by TerrellS.

If you're interested in joining my CT, see yesterday's post.

Thanks for stopping by, and please join me in my chat. Blessings!
Tracy

“How then will they call on him in whom they have not believed? And how are they to believe in him of whom they have never heard? And how are they to hear without someone preaching?” (Romans 10:14)

Marquee Template

2008-06-19T07:29:00.002-05:00

I might as well just change it to Template Thursday. LOL!

Site of the Day!!!

Remember the Alamo? Learn more about it at the official Alamo site, put together by DRT (Daughters of the Republic of Texas).

http://www.thealamo.org/

Here's this week's template:

Download:
Paint Shop Pro
Photoshop
PNG

My layout was done with Doreen Stolz' cute Funky Girl kit! And in case you're wondering about the font, it's Impact. :)

Blessings!
Tracy

"Greater love has no one than this, that someone lays down his life for his friends." – John 15:13

Stone Alphas

2008-06-16T09:08:00.003-05:00

Cute layouts for you today!

Isn't this a neat layout from Lisa? She used the Around the Bend template!

Look at this lovely layout that Cra-Z-cat sent! She used my Naturally Bound template and Sugar Shack Scraps' Nora Nora Kit.

I made some neat alphas awhile back and dummy me I didn't post them here! So here you go!!!

Download

I have this file loaded at my GroovyScraps store. You'll need to create an account, but it's still free. :)

Blessings!
Tracy

“Ah, Lord God! It is you who has made the heavens and the earth by your great power and by your outstretched arm! Nothing is too hard for you.” - Jeremiah 32:17

Stripes

2008-06-10T22:45:00.004-05:00

I like stripes, so this week's templates is filled with them!

Download:
Paint Shop Pro
Photoshop
PNG

My layout was done with Kim's ADORABLE Denim & Daisies kit! Oh, and good news for Kim - she was picked up as a designer at GottaPixel! Go congratulate her at her blog!!!

Get Kim's kit at GroovyScraps.com!

Blessings!
Tracy

There's no problem too big
and no question too small -
Just ask God in faith,
and He'll answer them all -
Not always at once,
so be patient and wait,
For God never comes
too soon or too late...
So trust in His wisdom
and believe in His Word,
For no prayer's unanswered
and no prayer's unheard.

~Helen Steiner Rice

Father's Day Sale!

2008-06-08T07:27:00.008-05:00

Get these items for 50% off at GroovyScraps! Now through June 22nd, and just in time for Father's Day.

It's a Guy Thing! $2.00 --------------- Grunge Alphas $0.75

Grungy Boy $2.00 --------------------- Grungy Boy Add-On $1.00

Lazy Afternoon $2.00 ------------------ Lazy Afternoon Add-On $1.50

Thanks for stopping by, and I hope you find something you can use!

Tracy

So Beautiful!

2008-06-07T08:14:00.006-05:00

So my daughter is out of school. It's been a pretty busy week because she had to go back to school every day this week for marching band practice. Yes! I said marching band practice! Even though that doesn't start until next Fall, they had to be there every day this week.

MY BABY IS A JUNIOR NOW! I can't believe how quickly time flies. I only have two more years with her and she's off to college.

Speaking of College... he he he..... Casey has made her very own kit! Here's a preview:

Not bad huh? And she did it all herself - even the preview! It's called Girl, and it's only $1! The proceeds go towards her college fund too. (Please, please, please buy it!)

If you have teenagers, you're probably familiar with the MySpace type photos they take. You know the ones: pictures we probably would have discarded before because they were off center or from the wrong angle. Now these pics are trendy! So I took one of my daughter's MySpace pics and used it in a layout with her kit. Whatcha think?

CHALLENGE TIME!
If you get this kit and use it in a layout (this kit will probably go REAL well with my Rocker freebie kits!) then you'll get this gift:

Just send me your layouts and I'll post it here on my blog, and I'll send you the link to the add-on. How simple is that? :)

SOTD!
Ok, if you're feeling down, you REALLY need to visit this site. You'll be giggling in no time! It's called I Can Has Cheezburger and you HAVE to check it out! Especially if you like pictures of cute kittens (who doesn't?)

My template is late again! But I hope you like it.

Download:
Paint Shop Pro
Photoshop
PNG

My layout was done with Maryse Vincent's new Alchimie kit. It's really gorgeous!!!

Thanks for stopping by! Blessings!
Tracy

Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come! (2 Corinthians 5:17)

Lavender & Sage

2008-06-01T22:29:00.004-05:00

Hey y'all, it's been a crazy few days, but I have a sampler from my new Lavender & Sage kit, and it has a 15% off coupon at GroovyScraps.com.

Oh, and if you play my June Quote Challenge at DigiByDesign, I have a gift for you! The theme is Summer Vacation. Just click on the preview to find out more.

Here's the Lavender & Sage sampler and 15% off coupon:

Download

Blessings!
Tracy

Therefore I tell you, do not be anxious about your life, what you will eat or what you will drink, nor about your body, what you will put on. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothing? Look at the birds of the air: they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they? And which of you by being anxious can add a single hour to his span of life? And why are you anxious about clothing? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow: they neither toil nor spin, yet I tell you, even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these. But if God so clothes the grass of the field, which today is alive and tomorrow is thrown into the oven, will he not much more clothe you, O you of little faith? Therefore do not be anxious, saying, 'What shall we eat?' or 'What shall we drink?' or 'What shall we wear?' For the Gentiles seek after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them all. But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.

Therefore do not be anxious about tomorrow, for tomorrow will be anxious for itself. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble.
(Matthew 6:25-34)

I'm In It to Win It!

2008-05-27T13:25:00.004-05:00

Hope everyone had a great Memorial Day!!!

So I was at the gym today... let's step back. I woke up this morning and realized I broke my promise to myself. I was SO late last week getting the template to you that I told myself that I was going to get it posted ON TIME this week. And when I woke up this morning I realized I didn't have a template ready. I didn't even have a CLUE what I was going to do!

:(

Must have been all that brisket I ate yesterday that distracted me! Yummo!

So I went to work out this morning and this idea came to me. Other people work out, do sports, etc. right? And who's kid hasn't done little league? So I made a sports/workout type template. Whatcha think?

The award has either the two ribbons or one straight one with a zig zag bottom. Your choice!

Download:
Paint Shop Pro
Photoshop
PNG

My layout was done with my new kit! Yes, I have a new kit!!! It's called Lavender & Sage and you can get it here.

This kit is over 130 meg! There was so much stuff I couldn't get it all in the preview. And it's only $4!

Thanks for stopping by. Blessings!
Tracy

"He draws up the drops of water, which distill as rain to the streams; the clouds pour down their moisture and abundant showers fall on mankind" (Job 36:27-28, NIV).

Late Again!

2008-05-23T18:33:00.004-05:00

Yes, I'm very late this week. I'm sowwy!!!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
But I have a special SOTD for you... Ancestry.com's military records are FREE to search this week (through 31 May)! So if you don't have an account there and you want to look up some of your ancestors' service records, now's the time!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Ok, my daughter told me this joke the other day, and I just laughed and laughed!

"I wish my grass was emo."

Why?

"So it would cut itself."

LOL!!!!

Before you go... make sure you get this week's template. It's called Naturally Bound, 'cause it has nature stuff on it and the photos are bound together. :)

Download:
Paint Shop Pro
Photoshop
PNG

My layout was done with Maryse Vincent's new kit, Alchimie!!!! It's a gorgeous kit!

Thanks so much for stopping by - Blessings!

Tracy

"Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it."
(Proverbs 22:6)

Mother's Day

2008-05-13T13:57:00.004-05:00

Did you get photos of your Mom on Mother's Day? Are you looking for a template to show off one of those pictures? Look no further!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
But first... da da dah!! The Site of the Day!

I used to live in Japan, and boy did I LOVE that country! The people, the gadgets, the music (yeah, I said music - if you haven't heard JPop, you really should give it a listen)... but one of the things I remember most about Japan was the funny attempts at English. I have to admit, their English was MUCH better than my Japanese, but I still got a kick out of what they came up with. There's actually a word for this.... it's called Engrish.

I remember seeing a steak house, and the sign outside was a giant cow. On that cow were the words, "Let's enjoy delicious beef." Being around military guys all the time, you can imagine some of the jokes I heard!

Anyway, if you'd like to read some more Engrish, check out this site: Engrish.com. You'll love it!!!!

Here is this week's template: Mother's Day.

Download:
Paint Shop Pro
Photoshop
PNG

My layout was done with Kim Cameron's BEAUTIFUL Timeless Rose kit!

Blessings!
Tracy

PLEASE, PLEASE, PLEASE pray for all those in Myanmar and China right now. There's a lot of suffering going on.

Clustered 3 Template

2008-05-06T13:51:00.009-05:00

Yo! Look at this CUUUUUTE layout from Kaytee using the Grungy Boy kit and its Add-On! That's her and her brother. Aren't they adorable?

And Kim sent in this AWESOME layout using the Hangin' Around 4 template!

SOTD!!!!

Do you think you can run a business? Try it out here at the Hot Shot Business game from Disney.com. Have fun!

http://spapps.go.com/hsb4/landing/

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Today's template is in the Clustered series. This is the third one and I think you'll like it. I hope so anyway!

Download:
Paint Shop Pro
Photoshop
PNG

The flowers are by Flyguy Designs, and the font is Tempus Sans.

My layout was done with Kim Cameron's First Day of Spring freebie. Thanks Kim!

Thanks for stopping by! Blessings!
Tracy

Make a joyful noise to the LORD, all the earth!
(Psalm 100:1)

Striped Paper Pack

2008-05-04T13:19:00.002-05:00

SOTD!!!

I know y'all are REALLY busy making layouts and stuff, but if you have any spare time, you really need to play this game. It's so cute!!! Keep your Developer in a Box happy and productive, but be careful... mine blew up. LOL!

http://www.thepocketgeek.com/

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Got a freebie for you today! These are striped papers in a green-blue color. One of them in woven. Hope you like them and can use them.

Download

Blessings!
Tracy

But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law.
(Galatians 5:22-23)

Why is America Unhappy?

2008-05-02T09:01:00.002-05:00

I LOVED this email!!! Not sure about all the figures, but the basis is very true. Not sure who wrote it, but it wasn't Jay Leno as many of the emails have said. He did say that last quote though. I guess I'm one of the 33% that's happy!

The Newsweek poll alleges that 67 percent of Americans are unhappy with the direction the country is headed, and 69 percent of the country is unhappy with the performance of the President. In essence, 2/3's of the citizenry just ain't happy and want a change.

So being the knuckle dragger I am, I started thinking, "What are we so unhappy about?"

Is it that we have electricity and running water 24 hours a day, 7 days a week?

Is our unhappiness the result of having air conditioning in the summer and heating in the winter?

Could it be that 95.4 percent of these unhappy folks have a job?

Maybe it is the ability to walk into a grocery store at any time, and see more food in moments than Darfur has seen in the last year?

Maybe it is the ability to drive from the Pacific Ocean to the Atlantic Ocean without having to present identification papers as we move through each state?

Or possibly the hundreds of clean and safe motels we would find along the way that can provide temporary shelter?

I guess having thousands of restaurants with varying cuisine from around the world is just not good enough.

Or could it be that when we wreck our car, emergency workers show up and provides services to help all, and even send a helicopter to take you to the hospital.

Perhaps you are one of the 70 percent of Americans who own a home. You may be upset with knowing that in the unfortunate case of a fire, a group of trained firefighters will appear in moments and use top notch equipment to extinguish the flames thus saving you, your family and your belongings.

Or if, while at home watching one of your many flat screen TVs, a burglar or prowler intrudes, an officer equipped with a gun and a bullet-proof vest will come to defend you and your family against attack or loss.

This all in the backdrop of a neighborhood free of bombs or militias raping and pillaging the residents. Neighborhoods where 90 percent of teenagers own cell phones and computers.

How about the complete religious, social and political freedoms we enjoy that are the envy of everyone in the world?

Maybe that is what has 67 percent of you folks unhappy.

Fact is, we are the largest group of ungrateful, spoiled brats the world has ever seen. No wonder the world loves the U.S., yet has a great disdain for its citizens. They see us for what we are. The most blessed people in the world who do nothing but complain about what we don't have, and what we hate about the country instead of thanking the good Lord we live here.

I know, I know. What about the President who took us into war and has no plan to get us out? The President who has a measly 31 percent approval rating? Is this the same President who guided the nation in the dark days after 9/11? The President that cut taxes to bring an economy out of recession? Could this be the same guy who has been called every name in the book for succeeding in keeping all the spoiled ungrateful brats safe from terrorist attacks?

The Commander-In Chief of an all-volunteer army that is out there defending you and me? Did you hear how bad the President is on the news or talk show? Did this news affect you so much, make you so unhappy you couldn't take a look around for yourself and see all the good things and be glad?

Think about it ...are you upset at the President because he actually caused you personal pain OR is it because the "Media" told you he was failing to kiss your sorry ungrateful behind every day.

Make no mistake about it. The troops in Iraq and Afghanistan have volunteered to serve, and in many cases may have died for your freedom. There is currently no draft in this country. They didn't have to go.

They are able to refuse to go and end up with either a "general" discharge, an "other than honorable" discharge or, worst case scenario, a "dishonorable" discharge after a few days in the brig.

So why then the flat-out discontentment in the minds of 69 percent of Americans? Say what you want, but I blame it on the media. If it bleeds, it leads; and they specialize in bad news. Everybody will watch a car crash with blood and guts. How many will watch kids selling lemonade at the corner? The media knows this and media outlets are for-profit corporations. They offer what sells, and when criticized, try to defend their actions by "justifying" them in one way or another. Just ask why they tried to allow a murderer like O.J. Simpson to write a book about "how he didn't kill his wife, but if he did he would have done it this way"...Insane!

Stop buying the negativism you are fed everyday by the media. Shut off the TV, burn Newsweek, and use the New York Times for the bottom of your bird cage. Then start being grateful for all we have as a country. There is exponentially more good than bad.

We are among the most blessed people on Earth, and should thank God several times a day, or at least be thankful and appreciative.

"With hurricanes, tornados, fires out of control, mud slides, flooding, severe thunderstorms tearing up the country from one end to another, and with the threat of bird flu and terrorist attacks, are we sure this is a good time to take God out of the Pledge of Allegiance?" ~Jay Leno

Hangin' Around 4

2008-05-01T17:09:00.003-05:00

Ok, I admit it, I'm late! This should have been done on Tuesday! I apologize, I have no excuse (except a lack of creative inspiration. I just couldn't think of anything! So I hope today's template is ok.

SOTD! - FamilySearch.org

I've been using this site for years! Did you know you can search the 1880 U.S. Census for free? FamilySearch.org is a free site run by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, who are known far and wide for their genealogy records. This site also has the Social Security Death Index and bunch of family trees. You can also look up records that are on microfilm, then go down to your local LDS Library location to view.

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Oh yeah, I have to invite you to participate in my May 2008 Quote Challenge at DigiByDesign!

All you have to do is use one of the following quotes in a layout and post it in the Quote Challenge Gallery, and you'll get this little mini!

What's so cool about this, is that all our challenge gifts are color/theme coordinated each month. So if you do several challenges, you'll wind up with a pretty big kit. This month's theme is called "Blushing Blooms" so you know it's going to be pretty. AND!!! If you do ALL the challenges, you'll get yet another gift that matches the set!

A real friend warms you by his presence, trusts you with his secrets, and remembers you in his prayers.
~Anonymous

A true friend thinks of you when all others are thinking of themselves.
~Anonymous

A real friend is one who walks in when the rest of the world walks out.
~Walter Winchell

God gives us relatives; thank God we can choose our friends.
~Ethel Watts Mumford

The best antique is an old friend.
~Anonymous

The world is round so that friendship may encircle it.
~Pierre Teilhard De Chardin

I would LOVE to see some layouts from y'all. In fact, you could easily use today's template:

Download:
Paint Shop Pro
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PNG

The title font is Belshaw by the font genius Dieter Steffmann.

The pretty flower brush is by Flyguy, another creative genius! It doesn't show up real well on the background I chose, but I just loved that background so much! It's from Scrapbook Design Down Under.

Blessings!
Tracy

For freedom Christ has set us free; stand firm therefore, and do not submit again to a yoke of slavery.
(Galatians 5:1)

Free Quickpage!

2008-04-29T20:32:00.004-05:00

Hey y'all! I haven't done my template yet, I'm way behind this week, but I do have a free quick page for you. And it's also a sneek peek of my CU Grab Bag. Be sure to come back tomorrow for the weekly template.

First, look at this cute layout from Nora. Definitely check out her blog, she's got an ADORABLE watermelon freebie kit!!!

Credits

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Today's SOTD is for you graphics geeks - if you haven't been to deviantART, you're really missing out! Not only can you post your digital art, but you can download tons of brushes, actions, patterns, all kinds of stuff. And if you make your own brushes and stuff, you can post them there too.

deviantART is not a scrapbooking site, but a digital graphics site. You'll spend days looking through everything, honest!

This QP was done entirely with items from my 4th Commercial Use Grab Bag, available for just one more day at DigiByDesign. Hurry up and get it before it disappears! Just $2!!!

Just add your own title and journaling.

Download

Blessings!
Tracy

Put on then, as God’s chosen ones, holy and beloved, compassionate hearts, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience.
(Colossians 3:12)

Earth Day

2008-04-22T11:08:00.004-05:00

Happy Earth Day! I'm not one of those environmentalists, but I do care about our planet - I don't litter and I recycle weekly. I also love nature photos, especially trees, mountains, etc.

My family and I went down to my Godmother's ranch over the weekend. My allergies are running rampant, but I loved being around all those trees and wildflowers. Here are some photos:

Today's template is green! It's called Big Picture 2: Earth Day. Hope you like it!

Download:
Paint Shop Pro
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PNG

The font is called Penguin Attack. Designers - it's a public domain font!

My layout was done using Maryse Vincent's Back to My Garden kit.

Green Blessings!
Tracy

God lives in the beauty that comes with spring -
The colorful flower, the birds that sing.
~Helen Steiner Rice

Feeling Tropical!

2008-04-15T19:59:00.012-05:00

SOTD!

I have another site for you: GodTube.com! You've heard of YouTube.com right? This site has all Christian related videos. And one video I want to share with you is a movie preview for the new Ben Stein "Expelled" flick. We're going to go see it this weekend!

Check out Expelled!

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And I have a couple of layouts for you!

Look at this cute layout Cheryl did using the Flower Shoppe template!

Oh, and isn't this layout from Kim adorable? She used the Whodunit? template, and a kit called "My Grunge Girlfriend." Too cute!

Today's template is called Sunset on the Island. I was thinking about my trip to Malaysia this weekend and this idea came to me. I don't think you HAVE to use it for beach pics, maybe your upcoming BBQ photos? Actually anything!

Download:
Paint Shop Pro
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The fonts used are Oil on the Water and Angelina.

Labuan is on a small island on the northern coast of Borneo (where the first Survivor was filmed) and close to Brunei Darussalem. Unfortunately, I didn't bring my camera, so I didn't have any photos. I took this one from the Internet.

I used Kim Cameron's By the Seaside kit. The little fish and starfish are from Maryse Vincent's Blue-tiful Seabreeze kit, one of my favorite kits by her!

A tragic thing happened over the weekend. A Junior at my daughter's school died. She had been in the hospital with a heart condition and the surgery did not go well. She was only 16. Please keep her friends and family in your prayers.

Blessings!
Tracy

When you're troubled and worried and sick at heart
And your plans are upset and your world falls apart,
Remember God's ready and waiting to share
The burden you find too heavy to bear.
~Helen Steiner Rice

Now Parenting

2008-04-09T08:57:00.003-05:00

A friend told me about this neat new website they have. It's a community on parenting! Since our kids didn't come with instruction manuals, this is probably the next best thing. Whether you're pregnant now or your kids are in college, there's a place for you there. I even saw a forum for special needs children.

Check it out!
http://www.nowparenting.com/

Blessings!
Tracy

Whodunit Template

2008-04-08T14:05:00.005-05:00

I thought I'd add a little to my blog entries, like some interesting sites, maybe a few comments, whatever. Here's my first:

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My "Site of the Day"

I have tennitus - constant ringing in the ears. Not sure if I got it from all that loud equipment I had to work around in the Air Force, or all the loud rock concerts I went to when I was younger (probably both!)

So now when I design, study, surf, etc., I like to have a little background noise to keep from going crazy. If I'm studying, I can't have the TV or radio on because I can't concentrate. So a couple of years ago I found this really neat website that plays piano music 24 hours a day!

http://www.solopianoradio.com

Unfortunately they've gotten so popular that the "free" server is often busy now. If you subscribe (you get to choose how much you want to pay) then the server is always open. This site has been a life saver for me!

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Now, on to the free stuff - the real reason you're here!

This week's template is called Whodunit? I've been hankering to play Clue lately, but no one in my family likes to play games. :( So I turned my hanker(?) into a free template for you.

Download:
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My layout was done with the cutest mini kit made by NitWit Collections called "Who Done It?" The scissors are mine, and so is the frame. The fonts are Bookman Old Style, Destroy and Josschrift.

Thanks for stopping by! Don't forget, my Commercial Use Grab Bag is on sale at DigiByDesign for just $2! It's a good one too!

Blessings!
Tracy

Teach me to do your will, for you are my God; may your good Spirit lead me on level ground. (Psalm 143:10)

Comm. Use Grab Bag Sale!

2008-04-07T14:49:00.004-05:00

I have a brand new Commercial Use Grab Bag on sale now at DigiByDesign!!! For just $2 (yes, I said $2!) you get six quality commercial use products. Get 'em now before the bag spills and the price goes up!!!

I also have three new products in the store! First is an Add-On to my Lazy Afternoon kit. If you came to my chat and did the challenge layout, you got this for free. But it's still reasonable at $2.99.

I've made my first Photoshop layer style!! Get this Concrete Diamond style for just $3.99. Commercial use ok!

I made some Grunge Alphas with one of the styles, and they're yours for just $1.49!

Kim has already used these, check it out...

Here's a sampler for you!

Download

Thanks so much for stopping by! God Bless!
Tracy

A Very Special Boy

2008-04-07T08:23:00.003-05:00

Look at this cute layout from Sandra! She used the first Tied Together template, and a kit called Spring Flurry by Lindsay Jane.

The journaling reads:
Born May 10, 2004 to Josh and Heather, Joshua was diagnosed with Phenylketonuria (P.K.U.). P.K.U. is a rare disorder which prevents the normal metabolism of protein foods, thus affecting the growth and developement of the child, particularly the brain. There is no cure for this disease. Treatment involves extensive medical visits, lab work and dietary management. A Poker Run was held May 1, 2005 by “Because We Care” to raise money for the family.

Keep this little guy in your prayers everyone! Thanks Sandra!

Blessings!
Tracy

Whenever we're troubled and lost in despair,
We have but to seek Him and ask Him in prayer
To guide and direct us and help us to bear
Our sickness and sorrow, our worry and care.

-Helen Steiner Rice

I've Been Tagged!

2008-04-04T19:43:00.003-05:00

Patricia tagged me, so here goes!

First, I have to list the rules:

Link to the person that tagged you and leave a comment on their blog, so that their readers can visit yours.
Post the rules on your blog.
Share 7 Random facts about yourself on your blog.
Tag 7 random people at the bottom of your post, linking to their blog. Let each person know by leaving a comment on their blog.

Seven random facts about myself:

I lived in Japan for almost 6 years while serving in the Air Force. I was stationed at Camp Zama, Japan.
I got married and had my daughter Casey in Japan.
No, I don't speak Japanese. I took French for four years in high school and I don't speak French either.
I was also stationed at the Pentagon for five years. I wasn't there on 9/11, and luckily everyone I knew survived the attack.
I have two associates degrees: Telecommunications Maintenance and PC Support. I'm a desktop technician by trade.
I'm a genealogy NUT! And I love history, specifically local history about the people and events of towns.
I have three cats, and I'd probably have more if my family would let me!

Well, I don't tag people, but I love to hear your comments. Do we have anything in common?

Blessings!

Tracy

Tied Together 2 Template

2008-04-03T14:28:00.004-05:00

Hey y'all! Yeah, I'm a little late (sorry!) but I got your template. I guess you've figured out that I've been a little busy. We had a HUGE response to our Close-out sale!

If you bought something and you haven't got your products yet, please do so! We'll be removing the items from the store very soon. Please contact me if you're having problems with your downloads.

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My friend Kim sent me this really cool link. Wait until it loads and wait, or hover over the cup. You'll love this!
http://producten.hema.nl/

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I have to show you a couple of really adorable kits that are out now.

Maryse has a wonderful new kit called In My Garden and you can get it here!

Isn't that adorable? See what I did with it?

Oh, and Kim Cameron has the CUTEST Kitty Kit! It's called "Here Kitty, Kitty" :) and you can get it from her blog. I've been begging her to do a Cat kit like her Puppy kits, and she didn't disappoint!

Can you tell she based her black & white kitty off my sweet baby Domino? :D Thanks Kim!

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Today's template is Tied Together 2. My Tied Together template was very popular, so I did another. Hope you like it!

Download:
Paint Shop Pro
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The font is OptimusPrinceps and can be found here.

My layout was done with the DigiByDesign April 08 MegaKit, Spring's Promise. This kit is awesome and huge! And right now it's only $3.99!

Thanks for stopping by! If you like the template, leave me a comment or send me a link to the layout use do with it. I LOVE seeing them!

Blessings!
Tracy

But just as you excel in everything—in faith, in speech, in knowledge, in complete earnestness and in your love for us—see that you also excel in this grace of giving.
(1 Corinthians 8:9)

Flower Charms

2008-03-29T17:37:00.007-05:00

Well, we tried to make it work, but just couldn't! So we're closing the store in a couple of days. But don't worry! You can still get my stuff over at DigiByDesign!

Download

Thanks for stopping by, and a special thanks to all those who supported us over at MIS!

Blessings!
Tracy

Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil. Cling to what is good.
(Romans 12:9)

Superstar Template!

2008-03-26T21:13:00.003-05:00

Well, I finally got it done! Yesterday was my favorite singer's birthday - Elton John is now 61 years old!! Yikes! I was listening to some of his old stuff when he was a glam and flashy and this is what I came up with. I bet you have some superstars in your life that would look great in this template!

So here is Tuesday's template on a Wednesday night. There are actually two templates in one (either one or two photos).

The title font is Indigo Joker, available here.

Download:
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Here's my layout!

Credits

Blessings!
Tracy

But in your hearts honor Christ the Lord as holy, always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness and respect.
(1 Peter 3:15)

It's Pouring Outside!

2008-03-18T15:43:00.003-05:00

It's been raining all day. Our internet has taken a few hits, but for the most part is up. That's not why I'm late though - my daughter and I went to see Horton Hears a Who! It was SOOOOOOO cute! Definitely check it out.

FUNDRAISER!

My daughter has qualified to go to Europe this Summer with the International Youth Leadership Forum! It's a fantastic opportunity for her to study Art & Music in places like Vienna, Prague and Rome! Unfortunately, it's $6300! Plus! So we're looking for ways to raise some money to send her. With her 16th birthday coming up, we'll be getting her a car, but we can't afford both.

So Casey took my horribly neglected Wacom and made some doodles. For a $2 donation, we'll send these adorable doodles to you. If you can part with $2, Casey would be MOST grateful!

After you donate, I'll get an email from PayPal. Make sure I get your email address if it's different from your PayPal one so I can send you the link for the Doodles.

Look at what Tina did with my Seeing Stars Sampler and the Zoom 2 template! Thanks Tina, this is too cute!

Today's template is called Puzzling. I was playing with the Puzzle Filter in Alien Skin and came up with this. Hope you like it!!!

Download:
Paint Shop Pro
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Don't forget to join in the Challenge!

My layout was done with the Rainy Day MegaKit from DigiByDesign! This is my sweet daughter that wants to go to Europe and made those cute doodles.

Thanks so much for stopping by!!! Blessings!

Tracy

And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.
(Colossians 3:17)

Happy St. Patrick's Day!

2008-03-17T10:17:00.004-05:00

Yay! It's that time again, make sure you're wearing your GREEN!!! In celebration, I have a set of 16 shamrocks in different shapes and textures. Hope you enjoy them!

Download

Cead Mile Failte!!!
Tracy

Lazy Afternoon!

2008-03-11T12:47:00.004-05:00

I have a new kit in the store! It's called Lazy Afternoon and it's only $3.99!

I don't think the weather can figure out what it wants to do - rain, shine, hot, cold, snow.... my sinuses are going nuts! And my blood pressure is up too, so I've been lying around trying to keep it from getting too high. I'm getting way too restless! Hope y'all are doing ok!

Before we get to the template for today, check out some layouts from my friends.

Danese has done it again! Another great layout! Aw!!!!!!!!!!!

Credits

Shannon is new to templates - but you couldn't tell with this layout huh? It's a great laying using the Guitar Template!!!

And look at this cutie from Denise!!!!! Oh wow, soooo adorable!

Credits

Ok, on to the freebie!

The template today is called Tied Together. Look at the preview and you'll see why. :)

Download:
Paint Shop Pro
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My layout was done with my new Lazy Afternoon kit! I sure had fun with this kit, definitely one of my favorites so far.

Have a great day!!! Blessings!
Tracy

I will not leave you as orphans; I will come to you. Yet a little while and the world will see me no more, but you will see me. Because I live, you also will live. In that day you will know that I am in my Father, and you in me, and I in you.
(John 14:18-20)

March Snow in Texas!

2008-03-07T10:20:00.002-06:00

Wow, can you believe this? It's been snowing in Texas in March! Amazing! We didn't get a whole lot here, but some areas got as much as 6 inches! Look at this photo of Sherman, Texas (hi Mikey!) that I found on the Dallas Morning News website.

Wow, huh? If you have this at your area, please be careful if you go out in it!

To celebrate this late Texas snow, I made some little snowflake things for you.

Download

Thanks for stopping by. Blessings!
Tracy

For as the rain and the snow come down from heaven
and do not return there but water the earth,
making it bring forth and sprout,
giving seed to the sower and bread to the eater,
so shall my word be that goes out from my mouth;
it shall not return to me empty,
but it shall accomplish that which I purpose,
and shall succeed in the thing for which I sent it.
(Isaiah 55:10-11)

Around the Bend

2008-03-04T15:43:00.005-06:00

Come on the rising wind, we're going up around the bend...

Wow, if you know that song, you're probably as old as I am! lol!! But I did name my template "Around the Bend," not because of the song, but because the title text bends around the corner of the photo.

Download:
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The title font is Apoplex.

My layout was done with my upcoming Lazy Afternoon kit!

"gero bukuro" is Japanese for barf bag. :P

And of course, play the Texas Two Step template challenge!!! Got some neat journals for you this week.

Blessings!
Tracy

New Quote Challenge

2008-03-02T07:29:00.004-06:00

I have taken over the Quote Challenge at DigiByDesign!

If you make a layout using one of these quotes, you'll get a very cute posting gift made by Amy W.

A kiss is a lovely trick designed by nature to stop speech when words become superfluous.
Ingrid Bergman

If I had a single flower for every time I thought of you, I would walk forever in my garden.
Claudia Ghandi

All through the long winter, I dream of my garden.
Helen Hayes

I don't want to live--I want to love first, and live incidentally.
-Zelda Fitzgerald

Kids spell love T-I-M-E
-John Crudele

The posting gift is adorable, isn't it?

I hope you'll come over and play!!

Blessings!
Tracy

Leap Year!!!

2008-02-29T07:37:00.005-06:00

Hey, it's February 29th! Happy Birthday to all you "leapers" out there! I had a cousin who's birthday was the 29th.

I do have a little freebie for you today. I was messing around with some layer styles I got at ActionFX (great site by the way) and came up with these little flowers. I hope you can use them for something!

Download

Tracy

Retro Garden Template

2008-02-27T10:12:00.005-06:00

Yes, I'm a day late. I'm sorry!!! But my Internet was down most of the day yesterday. It came back up right before I had to go to work. Figures, huh?

I've been in a retro mood lately... I love music from the 70's! Elton John is my favorite singer, but I also love stuff like, Styx, Chicago, Ambrosia, 3 Dog Night, Pablo Cruise, ELO and (see if you remember this group) Paper Lace! My 70s MP3 folder is bigger than any other folder on my hard drive. What's sad is... I actually remember when a lot of these songs were new! :(

Today's template is an homage to the groovy seventies. It's called Retro Garden and I hope you like it! The Title font is Bell Bottom and the Journaling font is Angelina.

Download:
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My layout was done with Saskia's VERY cute Retro Days kit.

Thanks for stopping by!
Tracy

Therefore, we are ambassadors for Christ, God making his appeal through us.
(2 Corinthians 5:20a)

Collage Template

2008-02-19T10:16:00.004-06:00

I have some layouts from my friends to share with you today!

TragedyAnne always does cute layouts. She has two for us today. One was done with the Spring Is Here template, and the other using some of the Boy WordArt.

Catzia seems to like Elvis! Smart lady! Look at her layout using one of my old Rocker kits!

Autumn did a wonderful layout using the Hearts A Plenty template!

Today's template is called Collage. Pretty simple name, huh? I couldn't think of anything else. Hope you enjoy using it!

Download:
Paint Shop Pro
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My layout was done with part of the upcoming March Roundup kit! You can get it at Make It Scrappy on the 1st of March.

Blessings!
Tracy

Behold, we consider those blessed who remained steadfast. You have heard of the steadfastness of Job, and you have seen the purpose of the Lord, how the Lord is compassionate and merciful.
(James 5:11)

An Early Spring!

2008-02-12T21:40:00.006-06:00

I am now sharing my Template Challenge with Rose, and the name has changed too. It's now called the Texas Two Step because we're both from Texas and we're taking turns. This week Rose has a cute template. Here's my entry for the challenge:

Credits

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Wow, we had a GORGEOUS weekend! It was so warm and sunny! The last couple of days weren't so great, but we had an amazing thunderstorm last night. Lots of flashes and BOOMS! It's like an early Spring.

So I made a springtime template for you.

Download:
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My layout was done with Spring Things from Nana's Attic. The dragonfly is by Kim Cameron and that cute font is called Kingthings Annex, and you can find it here.

I wish I could take credit for that photo, but it was from a stock photo site. I'm not that good! lol!!

Thanks for stopping by! Blessings!
Tracy

What causes quarrels and what causes fights among you? Is it not this that your passions are at war within you? You desire and do not have, so you murder. You covet and cannot obtain, so you fight and quarrel. You do not have, because you do not ask. You ask and do not receive, because you ask wrongly, to spend it on your passions. (James 4:1-3)

Free Commercial Use Frame Template!

2008-02-11T09:04:00.000-06:00

I have some new Commercial Use Frame Templates in the store, and a free sampler for you today!

Download

For only $3.99, you can get all 11 frame templates! Just click on the image.

And don't forget - get my Commercial Use Grab Bag for just $3.00!!!!

Thanks for looking!
Tracy

In Stitches 2 Template

2008-02-05T13:22:00.000-06:00

Wow, we had some fun in the Chat today! We played trivia, and everyone got a copy of the new Roundup kit, plus a bunch of quickpages made with the kit. Fun stuff! If you missed the chat this morning, there will be another chat tonight at 9pm Eastern. I'd LOVE to see you there!

Today's template is In Stitches 2 (In Stitches 1 can be found here). Hope you like it!

Download:
Paint Shop Pro
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My layout was done with my Summer Jeans kit, available in my store. On sale now through Thursday!

Thanks for stopping by, and I hope to see you all at the chat tonight!

Blessings!
Tracy

Know this, my beloved brothers: let every person be quick to hear, slow to speak, slow to anger; for the anger of man does not produce the righteousness of God. Therefore put away all filthiness and rampant wickedness and receive with meekness the implanted word, which is able to save your souls.
(James 1:19-21)

In other words, watch your mouth! Mom's advice was always good, huh?

The Princess Doilies

2008-01-29T18:36:00.000-06:00

Yeah, I like that movie, the Princess Diaries. It's so cute! And it sure bummed me out when Anne Hathaway went to the Dark Side in that gay cowboy movie. lol

Before we get to the template, check out what Angela sent in! She used my Moving Day template. Thanks Angela!

TragedyAnne's stuff is always so cool:

I have a couple of other things to tell you about too. Check these out!

Traci Thompson has an adorable new kit over at the MIS Store:

And she's got a little freebie sampler if you head on over to her blog!!!!!!

And Dawn has the cutest template for us Texans...

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Ok, today's template is called Princess Doilies (thanks to help from Kim Cameron on the name - I'm not taking full credit on that one!) And the reason is because she said my round journal thingie reminded her of a doily. And I was just watching the Princess Diaries movie the other day, so... wah lah!

Download:
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My layout was done with our upcoming Roundup kit, available soon at Make It Scrappy. If you join us for chat on 5 Feb, at either 11am or 9pm EST, you'll get it FREE!!

Thanks for stopping by! Blessings!
Tracy

If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him. But let him ask in faith, with no doubting, for the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea that is driven and tossed by the wind. (James 1:5-6)

My Love Is...

2008-01-22T08:43:00.000-06:00

What? Tell everyone about the Love of your Life with my new template. But first, check out the layout that Danese sent in. She used my Cute WordArt! Check out the rest of my WordArt too, maybe you'll find something you'll like.

Credits

My Love Template:

Download:
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I don't have a layout today, but if you send yours in to me, I'll post them. Better yet, go take my Template Challenge! You get GOODIES if you participate. :) See the Challenge Gallery too. Wow, y'all are talented!

Blessings!
Tracy

Do not be deceived: God is not mocked, for whatever one sows, that will he also reap. For the one who sows to his own flesh will from the flesh reap corruption, but the one who sows to the Spirit will from the Spirit reap eternal life.
(Galatians 6:7-8)

Announcements!

2008-01-15T10:17:00.001-06:00

Boy do I have some great news for you! Well, for ME anyway. LOL! First, I have TWO new CT Members. Sumie Souza has joined my team and wow, does she have some nice layouts. Look what she did with my It's a Guy Thing kit!

And Terri (aka Betty Boop) is on my team now too. She's very creative, and she loves Betty Boop! (Can't you tell?) Lookie what she did with my Vintage Love Affair kit:

Please leave them some love, either at their gallery or in a comment here.

Vintage Love Affair now has an Add-On for only $2.00!:

And finally.........

I'VE BEEN PICKED UP BY TWO NEW STORES! WOO HOO!!!!!!!!!!

First, DigiBytes.ca is a BRAND-SPANKING-NEW store run by a super sweet lady name Ruth. They're not open yet, but you are welcome to take a gander at them.

Second, DigiByDesign.com has offered me a spot too! I don't have a store set up there yet, but I'll be working on sending them stuff today.

Update: DigiBytes.ca closed down, but I'm still at DigiByDesign!

And yes, I do have a freebie for you. Since you were so nice to read all my good news!

And you can flip it and get this (I've even included a heart line for you):

Download:
Paint Shop Pro
Photoshop
PNG

Fonts used:
Heartland Regular - http://www.dafont.com/heartland-regular.font
Andrew Script - http://www.dafont.com/andrew-script.font

My layout was done with my Grungy Girl kit. And it shows the Big Ol' Chair my hubby got for his birthday. See how Casey fits sideways? Oh, and the pic turned out kinda dark - the chair is actually maroon.

Thanks SO much for stopping by!
Tracy

Whoever restrains his words has knowledge,
and he who has a cool spirit is a man of understanding.
Even a fool who keeps silent is considered wise;
when he closes his lips, he is deemed intelligent.
(Proverbs 17:27-28)

Pretty funny passage for today, considering I rambled on an on! LOL!

Dotted Tags

2008-01-10T08:02:00.002-06:00

Friday is my husband's birthday. He bought himself a new Daddy recliner! This chair is so big, my 15 year old daughter is able to lay down sideways (legs bent of course). I'll have to take a picture for you. We're also going out to eat when he gets home. Ever heard of Fat Catz? If you're ever in Tyler or Terrell, Texas, and you like Cajun food, you really should try them out.

I have a new layout that I did with my It's a Guy Thing! kit (which is on sale right now 50% off!!!).

Credits

I have a freebie for you today too! They're simple little tags, but they're ready to be dressed up! Add flowers, ribbons, whatever you want to these - they can handle it!

Download

Thanks for stopping by! And please check back tomorrow, I have some fantastic news!!!

Blessings!
Tracy

Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right. Honor your father and mother, which is the first command with promise: 'that is may be well with you and you may live long on the earth.' And you, fathers, do not provoke your children to wrath, but bring them up in the training and admonition of the Lord. (Ephesians 6:1-4)

A Day Late...

2008-01-09T09:10:00.000-06:00

...and SEVERAL dollars short! Oh well, I hope you forgive me!

I do have a WEDNESDAY template for you! :D This is Window Pane 3. Ok, not very creative, but maybe you can make it look good? I just couldn't get anything to look right yesterday. This is what I finally came up with. Please tell me you can do something with it! Or I'll feel like I've totally failed you!

Like it?
Paint Shop Pro
Photoshop
PNG

The journaling font is Whackadoo. You can find it here. The title font is Goudy Stout, which is built into Windows I believe.

My layout was done with the 50s Diner kit. I did an Elvis themed one because yesterday was his birthday. Of course, I meant to get this to you yesterday...

Blessings!
Tracy

But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law. And those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. (Galatians 5:22-24)

It's a Guy Thing!

2008-01-07T11:00:00.000-06:00

I have a new kit in the store. If you were here on Christmas morning, you were lucky enough to get it free. But now it's in my store and it's only $3.99!

Get it here.

Here's my layout. I used the kit and my Dog Tag template.

Would you like a free sampler? Ok! Plus, there's a 10% off coupon for the full kit!

Download

Hope you enjoy it! And I'd LOVE to see some layouts!

Blessings!
Tracy

Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear. (Ephesians 4:29)

Happy New Year!!!

2008-01-01T21:03:00.000-06:00

2008 is finally here! Can you believe it? Wow, 2007 went by fast!! I have officially been doing digital scrapbooking for one year now. :D

Hope everyone had a great holiday! I have a template for you today that will be great for scrapping your vacation photos, or Christmas photos if you change the word art a bit.

Here's a preview:

Or for your Christmas photos, you have a separate word art:

Download:
Paint Shop Pro
Photoshop
PNG

My layout was done with our brand new January Roundup kit, called Cozy Fireside. It's over 200 meg, and it's on sale now for only $5.00!

January Roundup - Cozy Fireside

Make sure you go to Make It Scrappy and do my template challenge for free stuff!

Blessings!
Tracy

Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect. (Romans 12:2)

It's Christmas!!

2007-12-24T20:31:00.000-06:00

Ok, I'm actually writing this on Christmas Eve, but I have something to share with you. Did I ever tell you that I LOVE Peanuts? I have a ton of books, Snoopy stuff and even a cat named Peanut. lol! So when I found this, I had to share.

I have a template for you today!

Download:
Paint Shop Pro
Photoshop
PNG

My layout was done with Maryse's Magie de Noel kit!

---------------
I'd also like to take a minute to remind everyone that we have thousands of men and women over in Iraq and Afghanistan, and other countries around the world that are separated from their families this year. Please take the time to think of them and thank them for their service. Please pray for their safety.

Blessings!
Tracy

"And there were in the same country shepherds, abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them! And they were sore afraid ... And the angel said unto them, "Fear not! For, behold, I bring you tidings o great joy, which shall be to all my people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ, the Lord."

"And this shall be a sign unto you: Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger." And suddenly, there was with the angel a multitude of the Heavenly Host praising God, and saying, "Glory to God in the Highest, and on Earth peace, and good will toward men."

"That's what Christmas is all about, Charlie Brown." - Linus Van Pelt

Christmas Card Templates!

2007-12-18T08:48:00.000-06:00

Make It Scrappy is having a sale - 25% off on selected Christmas products!

Lookie what Sandy did with the Sakura template!

Great job! Oh, and we have that SAME entertainment center and the same color carpet. Were you visiting me? lol

You get TWO templates today! Well, actually four templates - each design comes in 8x10 (for 5x8 cards) and 4x6 (for 3x4 cards). Easily resized if necessary.

Download:
Paint Shop Pro
Photoshop
PNG

I know I'm a little late with the Christmas cards, but I hope you can still use them! Oh yeah, they're also Scrap4Hire friendly!

Blessings!
Tracy

And these words that I command you today shall be on your heart. You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, and when you walk by the way, and when you lie down, and when you rise. You shall bind them as a sign on your hand, and they shall be as frontlets between your eyes. You shall write them on the doorposts of your house and on your gates. (Deuteronomy 6:6-9)

New kit from Angela!

2007-12-14T17:43:00.000-06:00

Angela has made her first kit, Tropical Flavors! And wow! Is it COOL! Look at the layout she did with her new kit and my Dots2 template.

Credits

Go get the kit here, and make sure you leave her some encouragement and love too!

Blessings!
Tracy

The Judy's!!!

2007-12-13T20:26:00.000-06:00

One of my FAVORITE bands of all time is a Houston local band named The Judy's. They were called a New Wave band back in the 80s, but I guarantee you've never heard New Wave like them!

Two of their classic albums, Moo and Washarama are now on CD!!!!!!!!!! I just got them in the mail today and WOW! What a blast from the past!!! I've been wearing the TShirt all day!

They didn't have music videos, but someone on YouTube made a cute video to the Judys song, She's Got the Beat. Check it out! Isn't she adorable?

Hope you enjoyed that! If you like the Judy's, check out this link. It's a bit out of date, but a lot of their music is available in Real Audio if you want to listen to some more. And their CDs and some old vinyl records can be found here.

Oh, I've been tagged! A fellow Texan, Rose, has tagged me with some holiday questions. Here's my answers!

1. Wrapping paper or gift bags? Both. It really depends on who the present is for and what the gift is. (Yeah, I pretty much stole Rose's answer here.)

2. Real or Artificial tree? Artificial. Real trees are beautiful and they smell wonderful! But they are a fire hazard and a pain to get rid of after Christmas. It's easier just to unpack a box.

3. When do you put up the tree? It's always been a tradition in my family to put the tree up after my birthday, which is on December 5. I just finished it today, so I'm a little behind.

4. When do you take the tree down? Usually the week after Christmas. Sometimes on New Year's Day after dinner.

5. Do you like Eggnog? Oh yeah! But I can't drink very much of it, it's very rich. And I don't want it spiked either!

6. Favorite Gift you received as a child? I didn't really have a favorite gift, but one Christmas when I was very young my Godmother came to visit. She told me when I got up the next morning that she rode in with Santa! :D

7. Do you have a nativity scene? Yes, a small one. We don't have any lawn ornaments.

8. Hardest person to buy for? My husband and my Godmother. They usually buy what they want.

9. Easiest person to buy for? My daughter! Anything with Rock music or drums she likes.

10. Worst Christmas gift ever received? Never received anything bad. I did have an aunt who had the WORST taste in clothes though.

Well there you have it! I'm supposed to tag three people, but I'm not sure who to pick just yet. In fact, I tag EVERYONE who has a blog. If you read this and haven't been tagged by someone else, go ahead and post the questions, then let me know you've done it so I can read your answers!

Blessings!
Tracy

Falling Snow Paper Pack

2007-12-12T12:26:00.000-06:00

Enjoy this little freebie - six snowy papers for your winter layouts. Enjoy!

Download

Blessings!
Tracy

When they saw the star, they were overjoyed. On coming to the house, they saw the child with his mother Mary, and they bowed down and worshiped him. Then they opened their treasures and presented him with gifts of gold and of incense and of myrrh. And having been warned in a dream not to go back to Herod, they returned to their country by another route. (Matthew 2:10-12)

Sakura Template

2007-12-11T11:51:00.000-06:00

Don't forget, the $2 Grab Bag sale is going on over at MIS through Thursday!

Today's template is called Sakura, because it reminds me of this Japanese lamp we have, and some of the paper walls they have over there. Sugoi!!!

Download:
Paint Shop Pro
Photoshop
PNG

My layouts were done with my new Vintage Love Affair kit (thanks again Sue!). You could fill in the squares with different papers and colors, or use them for photos!

Thanks for looking! Blessings!
Tracy

Beloved, let us love one another, for love is from God, and whoever loves has been born of God and knows God. (1 John 4:7)

Vintage Love Affair

2007-12-10T09:57:00.000-06:00

Thank you to everyone who has suggested names for my new kit! They were all so wonderful that I just had an awful time trying to decide which one. I had over 60 emails!!! Wow!

But Sue's suggestion of Vintage Love Affair is the winner!!! Sue, you should have received an email with the links in it by now. If not, let me know.

Introducting Vintage Love Affair!

Here's my layout using Vintage Love Affair and my template that will be available tomorrow:

And because I got such a special response from everyone on the name, here's a free sampler:

Download

The sampler includes a 10% off coupon, but I'll give you a hint. All day Tuesday, this kit will be on sale for 25% off. So if you use the coupon tomorrow, that's a total of 35% off! Tuesday only!

I can't wait to see what y'all do with this kit. :)

Blessings!
Tracy

In the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent from God to a city of Galilee named Nazareth, to a virgin betrothed to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David. And the virgin’s name was Mary. And he came to her and said, "Greetings, O favored one, the Lord is with you!" But she was greatly troubled at the saying, and tried to discern what sort of greeting this might be. And the angel said to her, "Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God. And behold, you will conceive in your womb and bear a son, and you shall call his name Jesus. He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High. And the Lord God will give to him the throne of his father David, and he will reign over the house of Jacob forever, and of his kingdom there will be no end." (Luke 1:26-33)

Name That Kit!

2007-12-07T12:20:00.000-06:00

I finally have a new kit that will be in the store soon. But I need a name!!! If I pick your suggestion, you'll get the kit FREE!

Email me with your suggestions. If you leave a comment, make sure I know how to get in touch with you if you win.

Thanks bunches, and can't wait to hear the suggestions!

Blessings!
Tracy

Mesh Overlays 2

2007-12-06T09:11:00.001-06:00

I made these Wire Mesh Overlays a few months ago and never used them. The last set was SO popular!!! I hope you enjoy these as well!

Download

Blessings!
Tracy

For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life. (John 3:16)

Dots 2 Template

2007-12-04T12:41:00.001-06:00

Today's template is called Dots 2. It doesn't look a thing like the first Dots template, but I kinda like it. Y'all know how bad I am at naming things. ha ha!

Download:
Paint Shop Pro
Photoshop
PNG

Fonts used are SA Dots and SA Apricots, which you can get here. Her site is cool - she's got lots of cute fonts and she'll even turn your handwriting into a font!

My layout was done with the MakeItScrappy Christmas Roundup kit.

Please make sure you come back tomorrow. I've got something neat to share with you!

Blessings!
Tracy

"Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all people. For unto you is born this day in the City of David a savior, which is Christ the Lord." (Luke 2:10-11)

Some Alphas

2007-12-01T23:23:00.001-06:00

I made these alphas awhile back for the Grandma's Cabin kit, but I never used them. I kinda like them though, and maybe you can use them?

Download

Blessings!
Tracy

The kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field. When a man found it, he hid it again, and then in his joy went and sold all he had and bought that field. (Matthew 13:44)

Where is your treasure?

Clustered 2 Template

2007-11-27T13:39:00.000-06:00

First I have a joke for you. Someone sent this to me in email awhile back and it really made me giggle!

One day a little girl was sitting and watching her mother do the dishes at the kitchen sink. She suddenly noticed that her mother had several strands of white hair sticking out in contrast on her brunette head.

She looked at her mother and inquisitively asked, "Why are some of your hairs white, Mom?"
Her mother replied, "Well, every time that you do something wrong and make me cry or unhappy, one of my hairs turns white."

The little girl thought about this revelation for a while and then said, "Momma, how come ALL of grandma's hairs are white?"

Ha ha!!! Yes, I do have a few gray hairs. But you should have seen my mom at my age! Wow, I must have been a real handful! :D

Today's template is Clustered 2. Hope you like it!

Download:
Paint Shop Pro
Photoshop
PNG

My layout was done with Maryse Vincent's Legendes d'Automne kit, now available at Make It Scrappy!

Thanks for stopping by! Blessings!
Tracy

And he said to all, "If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me. For whoever would save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake will save it. For what does it profit a man if he gains the whole world and loses or forfeits himself?" (Luke 9:23-25)

Let's Talk About Templates!

2007-11-26T01:00:00.000-06:00

People often ask me for help using templates. I thought I'd start posting tips on how to size photos effectively. I use Photoshop primarily, but today's tips are general enough to be used in any program.

Today's tip - Resizing Photos

Before we begin, a quick note:
My free templates are all 2400x2400. I do this because bigger templates drag my computer down, so I figured others would have the same problem. With templates being plain and grayscale, you can easily resize it larger without quality loss, just do this before adding graphics and photos.

Let's get started!
Depending on which program you use, sometimes your photos can look distorted if you try to resize the photos after they're in your layout. For best results, resize your photo BEFORE you put it in your template.

Oh my gosh!!! How????

That's an easy one... open your photo, resize to something appropriate for your template. It doesn't have to be exact, but get it close. I find that I get better quality by using the photo resize feature rather than deform/transform after the picture is in the layout, especially in Paint Shop Pro.

If the frame looks like it's about 1/4th the width of the template (2400x2400), then you can make the picture 600 wide. Then paste it into your template. With photos, it's better not to paste into a selection or use the fill tool. You want to get your pics lined up and sized right first.

Once it's close to the size of the frame or photo mat in your template, then you can use the transform or deform functions to resize the photo to better fit the size you need without a lot of quality loss.

Example:

The Deform tool in PSP can be used to stretch or shrink your photos, just be careful with it - it's easy to distort your pictures or lose quality. Newer versions of PSP are probably better at this than my old v8!

But the photo isn't the same shape as the frame in the template! What do I do???
No biggie! You can actually TRIM the photo. Whatever you do, don't distort the pretty visage of your little granddaughter or nephew just to fit it in the frame! Instead, trim it! It's pretty easy to do, you can use your select tool to select the edges of the photo that sticks out the side of the frame and then just delete. Your granddaughter stays whole and your layout still looks neat.

Example:

I've aligned the photo where I want it in the frame, then I used my selection tool to select the area I don't want and then pressed the Delete key. Make sure you're on the photo layer!

Problem:

Pictures are warped. Poor Casey!

Solution:

In this example I've cropped the photos to fit the frame. I don't get the whole picture, but in this instance I don't need to. Casey's pretty face is all I wanted to focus on.

See the difference?

I really don't want to trim my picture! It's already crowded with my kids, grandparents and fourth cousins twice removed!

Again, don't worry! Just resize the frame instead of the picture!! Better that your frame looks slightly distorted than your great-grandma's face, right?

Problem:

The picture is not the same shape as the frame. If I stretch it, everyone will look like they've been through the Twilight Zone and back! If I make the photo bigger and trim the sides, I'll cut off the dashing, young men on each end.

Solution:

Isn't this better? I shrunk the frame instead of the picture. The whole family (this is actually a 1905 graduating class, but it's such a small town I bet a lot of them are related) is in the picture, and they don't look like Coneheads.

Well, I hope that helped you out a bit! Let's keep those cute kids of yours looking like your cute kids. :)

Blessings!
Tracy

Not just for dogs!

2007-11-20T10:39:00.000-06:00

Ha ha... funny title huh? Stay tuned...

I have a couple of cute layouts from my friends today.

Steph used the Buttoned Up template. Click for credits. Check out her blog too!

Look what Vicki sent in! She used the Window Pane 2 template. Click for credits.

Thanks ladies! Ok, today's template is called Dog Tag. But you don't have to have a dog to use it! Look - I scrapped my cat! lol... humans are also invited to be scrapped. Let's see what you do with this!

Download:
Paint Shop Pro
Photoshop
PNG

My layout was done with Jen Reed's cute Cinnamon kit, but I guess it's time for me to make a Kitty Kit!

Here's the story behind this picture... My husband saved up and bought an expensive All-Clad pan because he's been addicted to the Food Network lately (lovingly called "food porn"). We took it out of the box, washed it and left it on the counter to dry. We were down on the floor re-arranging the pantry to find a place for it and when we got up, this is what we saw. Hubby was NOT happy!! I couldn't stop giggling... LOL!

Be sure to post your layouts over at Make It Scrappy!

Blessings,
Tracy

"I thank my God every time I remember you." (Phil 1:3)

Thanksgiving Tags

2007-11-16T21:14:00.001-06:00

I have a Thanksgiving freebie for you today!

Download

Blessings!
Tracy

Blessings Template

2007-11-13T19:02:00.000-06:00

Hey y'all... in case you're wondering why I'm so late today, it's because I'm sick. I didn't sleep well at all last night and all day today I've had tummy issues.

I got the template done, but didn't get a layout done with it. :( But I KNOW y'all will come up with something good with this!

First, a lovely layout from Kim. This is the second time she's used the Zoom template!

Today's template is called Blessings, or rather, Counting My Blessings. It's almost Thanksgiving, so I thought it seemed appropriate!

The "counting my blessings" phrase comes from an old Irving Berlin song, "Count Your Blessings." It was performed by Bing Crosby and Rosemary Clooney in the 1954 classic, White Christmas. Awesome movie, awesome song - don't miss it this year!

Count Your Blessings

When I'm worried and I can't sleep
I count my blessings instead of sheep
And I fall asleep counting my blessings
When my bankroll is getting small
I think of when I had none at all
And I fall asleep counting my blessings

I think about a nursery and I picture curly heads
And one by one I count them as they slumber in their beds
If you're worried and you can't sleep
Just count your blessings instead of sheep
And you'll fall asleep counting your blessings

I think about a nursery and I picture curly heads
And one by one I count them as they slumber in their beds
If you're worried and you can't sleep
Just count your blessings instead of sheep
And you'll fall asleep counting your blessings

Download:
Paint Shop Pro
Photoshop
PNG

Blessings! (again!)
Tracy

Your father's blessings are greater
than the blessings of the ancient mountains,
than the bounty of the age-old hills.
(Genesis 49:26)