[circa 1982]

A Week in the Life

2011-07-09T12:00:00.000-06:00

A glimpse at a week in my life.
July 3 - 9, 2011

Summer is here.
School is over.
Life is good.

Me and Velvet

SATURDAY, JULY 2 | Big Water to Dog Lake, Millcreek Canyon

Me and Whitney

SUNDAY, JULY 3 | Little Water, Millcreek Canyon

Red v. Blue

MONDAY, JULY 4 | 2nd Annual Family Softball Game & BBQ

Internship Initiation

A photo for the photo wall

WEDNESDAY, JULY 6 | Lunch at Big Ed's

Beautiful view

The band signed my cd after the show

WEDNESDAY, JULY 6 | Pink Martini Concert at Red Butte Gardens

SATURDAY, JULY 9 | Farmer's Market

Birthday Girl

2011-07-03T07:00:00.002-06:00

Happy birthday to my little sis!

For 27 years:
you have traveled, explored, and experienced the world.
you have learned, earned, and gained knowledge and education.
you have argued, disagreed, and faced sadness and sorrow.
you have cried, laughed, giggled, and smiled.
you have lived and loved.

Concert and picnic at the beautiful Ogden Nature Center

Birthday guests

Birthday cake: raspberry spice cake

Happy Birthday Jessie Bear!
XOXO

p.s. I'm still taller

RENT!

2011-07-02T20:31:00.005-06:00

I've been looking forward to seeing RENT on broadway for years.
My first wish was to see it in New York this summer but seeing it with my mom was a close second.

The music is powerful.
The characters are real.
The play is moving.
We laughed, cried, and sang along.

Happy Five-0 Mom

2011-06-20T22:44:00.017-06:00

Happy Birthday to my beautiful mom.
5-0

Great backyard party celebration with family and friends.

Here's to fifty fabulous years!
Thanks for making me part of 29 of them.
I love you!

p.s. thanks for the great genetics.

Wordless Wednesday

2011-06-14T23:53:00.004-06:00

A beautiful gem from an amazing night with great food and friends
supporting equality in Utah and the nation.

Human Rights Campaign (HRC) Dinner
Grand America gardens

Today...

2011-05-19T07:00:00.004-06:00

I am...

missing: rocket (my childhood dog)

wearing: jeans and t-shirts

working on: swimming and running more

eating: fruit with yogurt and granola

dreaming of: getting tickets to the Adele concert

realizing: that i just need to take one day at a time

impatiently waiting for: memorial day weekend

anticipating: my summer internship with academic advising

loving: my new planter boxes on my patio that I planted myself
thinking about: starting my integrative paper research

feeling: anxious for fresh starts
listening to: someone like you by adele
reading: saving ceecee honeycutt

A to Z Reading Challenge: W

2011-05-15T20:15:00.001-06:00

Water for Elephants by Sara Gruen

★★★★★

What an amazing story about love, compassion, and coming of age. I was incredibly absorbed in the behind-the-scene details of the depression-era Benzini Brothers Most Spectacular Show especially the lives of the memorable characters like the caring Jacob, the beautiful Marlena, and the loveable Rosie. These three characters found happiness with each other during a time of desperation and cruelty. I highly recommend this book.

For the full reading list, click here.

Next on the list:

A to Z Reading Challenge | G

2011-03-18T21:17:00.011-06:00

The Girl Who Chased The Moon

★★★★☆

"How tall is he?" she asked, her voice hushed, as if he might hear.
"Tall enough to see into tomorrow."--Chapter Two

The town of Mullaby is filled with the aroma of sugary cakes swirling through the air, magical lights dancing through the trees, an 8-foot-tall giant, and the mystery of Dulcie Shelby's sudden departure. The characters in the book deal with real-life issues like teen pregnancy, depression, isolation, and death, but the way the author weaves the characters stories together as they heal and overcome these obstacles was enchanting. I couldn't put this book down.

For the full reading list, click here.

A to Z Reading Challenge

2011-03-09T13:16:00.020-07:00

I'm joining the A to Z reading challenge posted here but I'm giving myself more than a year to complete the challenge.

I am still narrowing down my list, which includes all female authors! Too many to choose from so I may keep them all. I'll be logging my progress on my blog and at goodreads.com.

A Anne Frank: The Diary of a Young Girl by Anne Frank
B Baking Cakes in Kigali by Gaile Parkin
B Bridget Jones’ Diary by Helen Fielding (read June 2011)
C Charms for Easy Life by Kaye Gibbons
D Dive from Clausen’s Pier by Ann Packer
E the Evolution of Calpurnia Tate by Jacqueline Kelly
F Fried Green Tomatoes at the Whistlestop Café by Fannie Flagg
G the Girl Who Chased the Moon by Sarah Addison Allen (read March 2011)
H the Help by Kathryn Stockett (read April 2011)
I I See You Everywhere by Julia Glass
J the Joy Luck Club by Amy Tan
K Kabul Beauty School: An American Woman Goes Behind the Veil by Deborah Rodriguez
L Lift by Kelly Corrigan
M Matched by Ally Condie
N the Namesake by Jhumpa Lahiri
O Olive Kitteridge by Elizabeth Strout
P Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen
Q Quiver by Stephanie Spinner
R the Red Tent by Anita Diamant
S Saving Ceecee Honeycutt by Beth Hoffman (July 2011)
T Twelve Little Cakes by Dominika Dery
U Unbroken by Laura Hillenbrand
V Very Valentine by Adriana Trigiani
W Water for Elephants by Sara Gruen (read March 2011)
X Xenolith by A. Sparrow
Y Ya Yas in Bloom by Rebecca Wells
Z the Zookeeper’s Wife by Diane Ackerman

What books are you reading?

11 things in '11

2011-01-12T20:28:00.002-07:00

I posted this note on Facebook on 1/11/11 and if I could go back in time I would have posted it on the blog yesterday on 1/11/11 at 11:11. I'll keep that in mind in 2012. :)

This year I decided to not make New Year resolutions because, well to be honest, I don't keep them. Instead I compiled a list of 11 things I'd like to do, complete and accomplish this next year. I also compiled a list of 11 personal goals I'd like to work on during the year. So here is my 11 things in '11:

11 things I want to do in 2011:

1. Volunteer.

2. Read five non-school related books.

3. Make Indian food.

4. Take a walking tour of downtown Salt Lake.

5. Scan and print my childhood photos.

6. Make my bed each morning.

7. Do something that scares me.

8. Make a mixed CD each month.

9. Complete a summer internship.

10. Run the Salt Lake City Half Marathon.

11. Visit an art museum.

And here are 11 goals I have for 2011:

1. Remember all my friend’s birthdays.

2. 12 on 12 Photo Challenge.

3. Write every day.

4. Learn to let things go.

5. Reach a happy, healthy weight.

6. Listen more. Talk less.

7. Learn something new.

8. Fall in love.

9. Take a self-portrait once a month.

10. Make a big life decision.

11. Spend more time with my friends and family.

I'm Filled With Glee

2010-04-05T11:23:00.002-06:00

GGGLLLEEEEEEE!

Returns next week on Tuesday, April 13 to be exact. So excited!

Announcement, Announcement, Announcement

2010-03-24T21:46:00.005-06:00

I have three very exciting announcements to share and I'm not going to take a long introduction to get one with it.

I GOT INTO GRADUATE SCHOOL!
I've been accepted into the University of Utah's Educational Leadership & Policy program. Basically, I will be educated on how to work and support students and faculty in a higher education setting.

The ironic thing is that I received the letter on February 11, almost one year exactly from being laid off at Simple Scrapbooks. It was my own personal reminder that life comes full circle and when you hit bottom at times, with enough determination and drive, you can pull yourself back up. I worked on my grad school application for two months, attending workshops and seminars, contact the program director to ask questions, and more. And the hard work paid off, finally. Now I only have to start the program.

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I GOT A GRADUATE ASSISTANTSHIP
What is this? It is a part-time job supported by the grad program to help you work in your career field while attending grad school. It pays for full tuition and provide a living stipend. Not every accepted student gets one. And I did! I interviewed with four different departments, revised my resume too many times, and made pro/con lists, but I finally decided to work with Utah Campus Compact. I will definitely tell you more about school and my assistantship when I start in the fall.

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MY SISTER GOT ENGAGED
Ray proposed to my sister on the beach in Seattle while their dog rolled in the mud and the ring was stuck in his pocket. What a classic, real-life moment. It reminds of Aidan proposing to Carrie Bradshaw while walking the dog. So sweet and tender. He gave her his grandmother's diamond ring which she'll have the diamond mounted in a new setting. I love how it encompasses the past with the start of their future together. What a great story to tell their kids.

Well I have to go. The end of the semester is near and I have final projects calling my name.

Jen

Blogging at Write.Click.Scrapbook

2010-03-18T23:40:00.002-06:00

I'm hosting the writeclickscrapbook.com blog this week. Come check it out!

Learn how to document a "Week in the Life" here, here, and here.

I'll be back on Sunday to share a special announcement.

Jen

27 Things

2010-01-26T15:29:00.002-07:00

I was recently inspired by this project on Kelly Purkey's blog. What a fun, fresh take on setting goals throughout the year. I try not to make new years resolutions cause I struggle to keep them. I've already failed at taking a photo a day and doing the 12 on 12 (can I start the project in Feb.?)

With that said, I had fun creating my list of 27 Things. Why 27? I choose the number because of my age. It was challenging, yet inspiring, to come up with 27 goals, wishes, dreams, and accomplishments that I would like to complete this year. I'm now ready to welcome 2010 and look forward to what the future holds for me. Here's my list (in no particular order):

1. Volunteer at least 10 hours a month.
2. Read at least 2 books a month (one for book club and one for fun).
3. Make 3 new friends.
4. Start dating (and enjoy it!).
5. Visit New York City
6. Remember all my friends' birthdays.
7. Take a photography class.
8. Keep a journal.
9. Make a big life decision.
10. Declutter my life.
11. Scan and print my childhood photos.
12. Regularly post on my blog and design a blog header.
13. Reach a happy, healthy weight.
14. Read all of Jane Austen's books (see #2).
15. Make Indian food.
16. Do something that scares me.
17. Make a mixed CD each month.
18. Take a mini road trip in my Honda Element.
19. Listen more. Talk less.
20. Learn something new.
21. Send my sis letters and packages regularly.
22. Make at least one scrapbook layout a month that isn't for a design team.
23. Make my bed each morning.
24. Visit an art museum.
25. Run the Ogden half-marathon (see #13).
26. Start hybrid and digital scrapbooking.
27. Spend more time with my family.

What would be on your list? Please share in the comments.

Me and Ella

2010-01-19T16:20:00.010-07:00

Yeah, this month me and Ella are pretty tight. You see, we have lots in common. We both like to create, blog, and make new friends. We both like peanuts for our afternoon snack. We both have a goal to get rid of the extra junk in the trunk. And we both love this month's Ella Publishing eZine, which features this layout by yours truly:

materials: cardstock, letter stickers (American Crafts) • rub-on (October Afternoon) • butterfly accent (Jenni Bowlin) • buttons (Creative Imaginations) • brad (BasicGrey)

journaling: How do you sum up a decade? new hair cuts + new clothes + new jobs + new cars + new homes + old memories + old friends + old habits + bad habits + paying attention + paying the bills + grocery shopping + Christmas shopping + paper work + house work + homework + exams & tests + all nighters + final papers + headaches + graduation + unemployment + power struggles + humility + "thank you" + "I'm sorry" + emails + post-its + letters + phone calls + technology + quality time + family + friendship + long talks + smiles + first dates + first kisses + first boyfriend + heartache + tears + life + death + milestones + minutes + moments

Check out the article by Elizabeth Dillow in this month's Ella Publishing eZine. There are inspiring ideas for capturing this past decade on a simple layout/spread. I encourage you to sit down and start thinking about what you want to remember about the past 10 years. The good; the bad; the ugly (that can be hair cuts or ex-boyfriends); the breakups; the makeups; the major world events; the everyday, ordinary events; the big and small decisions; or your big and small life changes.

I tried three new things on this layout and I challenge you to do the same.
1. Combine a few favorite photos from your past and present on one layout.
2. Try a new journaling technique. You can model your journaling after mine or try something new. My tip is to just start writing and edit later.
3. Use my five-photo grid design on your next layout. To mix it up, try turning the layout 90 or 180 degrees for a fresh look.

So what would you say to sum up a decade? Please share any ideas or layouts in the comments.

Dear Blog, Happy Belated Birthday

2010-01-07T16:44:00.004-07:00

To my dear, sweet blog,

Happy Belated Blog Birthday! My baby is ONE.

I know I missed the actual celebration but I've been slightly busy. You see, I started my training for the Ogden half marathon and began my photography classes at Weber State University. Plus, I submitted a very large grad school application to Colorado State University this week. I know it's your birthday celebration but could you make a wish for me when you blow out your candle. Wish for acceptance to grad school, please! And if you could also add in those brown boots from Dillards I've been eying since fall, I would really appreciate it.

I want to wish everyone a happy new year and I look forward to a great 2010. Thanks for being a part of this past year and look forward to a more creative (and more frequently updated) blog in 2010.

Happy New Year,
Jen

Winner...and Loser

2009-12-16T17:18:00.003-07:00

Sorry for the delay in posting my Ella giveaway winner. Without further ado...the winner is

Ingunn said... Whee! I am sorely in need of something to do with all the Christmas-themed supplies I keep buying and never using

Now for a life update and the reason why I'm a big blog loser for not posting...

I've been filling out applications for graduate school. If you've never done it before then you've never experienced being stuck to your laptop writing until 2 a.m., then not being to sleep because you need to change your answer to question number 4, and writing essays, personal statements, and resumes which are all different for each program you're applying to. Yesterday I turned in my first application for the Master's of Educational Leadership and Policy program at the University of Utah. And now I have to wait...

and wait...

and wait until March or April to find out if I'm accepted. Ahhh! The agony. Cross your fingers and toes for me.

Well I have to get going; can't stay too long, but I promise to not stay away so long. I'm off to pick up my sister at the airport. She's visiting from Seattle and staying with me for a few days. I can't wait to snuggle in bed tonight and talk until we can't keep our eyes open. I miss her so much.

Until then,
Jen

Ella Giveaway - Enter To Win A Free eBook

2009-12-09T17:55:00.003-07:00

Just in time for the holidays! Ella Publishing has a new eBook.

Choose your own crafting adventure! Whether you're trying to get crafty between batches of cookies or you've got a whole weekend to revel in your creativity, we've got the Christmas project for you! Crafting rockstar Margie Romney-Aslett and her daughters, Brooke and Megan, have pulled together nine totally glitter-tastic ideas in Ella Publishing Co.'s latest eBook, Vintage Hip Christmas Crafts: 9 step-by-step layouts, gifts, décor and more. Put on your favorite Christmas album, brew up a mug of cocoa, and pick your crafting poison.

Enter to win a copy of your very own. Sign up for the Ella email list here and then leave a comment below. I'll announce the winner on Monday.

Can't wait until Monday? All my blog readers get 25% off the title. Consider it an early stocking stuffer. Click here to order and enter code CRAFTY09 at checkout. Valid through December 13 so buy a copy today to get your craft on!

5 Things About Me

2009-10-31T16:30:00.002-06:00

1. I'm spending my Halloween packing up my scrap space, throwing out old clothes, and sorting through more memories because.... I SIGNED A LEASE ON AN APARTMENT YESTERDAY! I found a cute one-bedroom apartment near campus, remodeled, and full of personality. I'll share photos soon because I'll need some decorating ideas on how to pull together all my miss-matched furniture. I'm calling the look "College Chic."

2. I'm rethinking a new career path in...Student Affairs. What lead to this? The great students that I work with at Weber State. I've really enjoy my new job advising students in the Community Involvement Center. Here's what I love about it: It's challenging. I work with a variety of different people. I'm becoming a better listener. I'm learning patience. I'm working on leadership skills for me and my students. It's creative. I get to help out my community. No two days are the same. It comes naturally to me. Who knew?

3. I'm going back to school. Why not? I'm registering for two classes next semester. Digital photography and another class but I can't decide between black and white/analog film (okay, old fashioned photography using film), Spanish, Art History, Sign Language, or Botany. What do you think?

4. Back to training for another half-marathon. My training starts this Monday for the Ogden Half Marathon in May. And if that doesn't happen, then it will start next Monday :0)

5. My goal for November is to cook all my meals at home, bring my own lunch to work, and not eat out unless it's a special occasion. If you have a favorite quick weeknight recipe, please share.

Off to see my nephew's Halloween costume. Next time you read this blog, I'll be in my own place.

Until then,
Jen

This post is really self-centered but in a good way

2009-10-06T22:13:00.007-06:00

Okay, I'm just going to say it...Shane and I broke up! That is why I've been missing from this blog. I've needed some time to work through my emotions and get my life back on track. The details of our break-up don't really belong on my blog but I can say this...we grew apart over the past three years and we just couldn't be together anymore.

I tried many times to write this post but couldn't do it. I guess writing it made it final and I just wasn't ready...until today. Now I'm ready to move on with my life. I look forward to the changes happening in my newly single life. I found a new job at Weber State working in the Community Involvement Center. I'm looking for an apartment of my own (so I can move out of my dad's basement). I'm going to start running again to lose the 15 lbs I gained this past year. I've read these two great books Eat, Pray, Love and It's A Breakup, Not A Breakdown. I reconnected with some long-lost friends. I'm working on becoming a better me. I'm learning to forgive. I'm learning to listen more; talk less. I'm starting to like myself again. I'm laughing again.

In a recent job interview I was asked where I see myself in five years. I honestly said "I don't know and I don't want to know, I'm just going to enjoy the journey." Thanks to all the support from my friends and family - - I love you!

Today: 7/8/09

2009-07-08T10:35:00.004-06:00

Today I have to...
Make a grocery list and go shopping
Start my layout for Pink Sketches
Do the dishes
Do the laundry
Return library books

Or

I could just spend the day on the couch reading the Encyclopedia of an Ordinary Life.

I took this self portrait on 7/8/09 at 10:11. Want to play? Check out this blog.

Blogs recommended by Jen

2009-06-29T16:26:00.004-06:00

I'm typing the post with only one free hand cause the other hand, arm and shoulder have been out of use for over a week. I pulled all the muscles in my shoulder (don't know how it happened) and my arm is in a sling. I don't want you to leave my blog but here are a couple websites/blogs you should check out today...

Write.Click.Scrapbook
Autumn Baldwin is the guest blog host this week and she's answering any and all digital scrapbooking questions. Not a digital scrapbooker? She's also tackling the topic of journaling and sharing some cute layouts as examples.

Pink Sketches
Every other week a new sketch is posted along with examples from the design team members (I'm one!). If you like to start your layout design with a sketch or need a place to start your creative process then check out this site.

The Possibilities Are Endless
If you don't know the amazing and wonderful Wendy Smedley then you must visit her blog immediately! She is incredibly inspiring, organized, and creative. I feel more motivated when I'm around her. She is giving away a spot in Jenni Bowlin's 4-expert class at Big Picture Scrapbooking.

Yeah, Write
This blog is from Angie Lucas, my former boss, fellow scrapbooker, and supreme word nerd. She blogs about most anything including grammar, scrapbooking, and spa treatments and you're guaranteed a good laugh every post.

What are some of your favorite blogs? I'd love to check them out.

I can't put down...

2009-06-26T22:53:00.004-06:00

The Thirteenth Tale by Diane Setterfield. This page turner is our book club pick this month. I'm enjoying the book because of the beautiful and intelligent writing. I recommend adding this to your "to-read" list on goodreads. Have a good weekend.

Utah Arts Festival

2009-06-25T22:16:00.009-06:00

I look forward to the Utah Arts Festival each year. I'll probably go once or twice this weekend because the food is delicious, the music is relaxing, the beer is cold, and the art is amazingly inspiring. Here's some links to my favorite artists this year (and artists I hope to be adding to my art collection).

My favorite find at the Fest. The artist was really down to earth and her art work was beyond amazing. My favorite piece is above and you can see more from Lisa Telling Kattenbraker here.

I absolutely love the above art piece. I saw it last year at the Fest and thought it would be fitting in our bedroom. The artist pieces clippings from magazines to create amazing works of art. Check out Richard Curtner's gallery here. It's worth it!

My little nephew needs this print in his room so he's always reminded to reach for the stars. Check out more from Jarrod Eastman here.

These beautiful sculptures are made with pages from childrens' books, maps, newspapers, and more. Check out Katherine Ross's gallery here.

I want this painting in my future studio because who doesn't need a still life print of sexy red shoes. This artist does amazing still life paintings of food, books, and shoes. And she's a local Utahn. Check her gallery out here.

Black and white photography takes a special talent and I was blown away by Kip Holm's work. It makes me want to experiment more with old fashioned black and white film. Browse his gallery here.

Enjoy! And let me know if you attend the Art Festival this year.

Today...

2009-06-24T17:59:00.011-06:00

June 24, 2009

I am totally inspired by Ali Edwards (who's not!) and copied this idea from one of her posts this week. And then I saw cute Cathy Zielske's blog today too. So here's my take...

Outside my window... the sun is perfect for picture taking.

I am thinking... about making a career change.

I am thankful for... Wednesday mornings with Shane.

From the kitchen... debating between leftover pizza from last night or ordering Chinese takeout. I'm solo tonight.

I am wearing... my super comfy black and gray striped shirt, my worn out comfy jeans, and pink flip flops. My usual outfit these days since I'm unemployed.

I am creating... my weekly layout for Pink Sketches.

I am going... to wake up early tomorrow and run 3 miles.

I am reading... the Thirteenth Tale by Diane Setterfield for my book club.

I am hoping... that Shane and I both find satisfying jobs by August so we start the next chapter in our lives.

I am hearing... Roxy's doggy snores next to me on the couch. She's so soft and cuddly it's going to be hard giving her back to her family tomorrow.

Around the house... we are running out of room for all our s*!@. We really need a bigger apartment.

One of my favorite things... is getting back in touch with old friends.

A few plans for the rest of the week... Shane and I are going to the Arts Festival tomorrow and I can't wait to meet this artist. Spending time with my sister before she moves to Seattle to go to Med school. Relaxing this weekend and maybe hoping on my mountain bike for the first time this season.

Favorite picture from this week...opening day at the Farmers Market. We're planning on going whenever possible to buy fresh fruit and veggies. Isn't summer so great!

Disney's Up!

2009-06-08T14:37:00.006-06:00

Saw the movie "Up" last night and absolutely loved it. The animation is amazing and the story was unexpectedly touching. I laughed, cried (twice) and giggled like a little kid. I know that times are tough but this is one movie worth seeing on the big screen. Click here to see the trailer.

Are you ready...

2009-06-02T21:41:00.005-06:00

for something inspirational, challenging, creative, and most importantly, fun? I'm talking about Write.Click.Scrapbook, an all new Inspiration Collective featuring your favorite Simple gals, including me! Check out the new site here and the amazing idea gallery here.

I'm a Pink Sketches design team member

2009-05-28T21:15:00.008-06:00

Losing my job at Simple was extremely hard. Some days it's still hard, but I realized that one of the pros was being able to join design teams. I applied to be a team member with this darling site called Pink Sketches and got it! Every week I follow a sketch, push my creative boundaries, and enjoy my free time in my scrap space. I usually start out hating my page and then end up loving it. Here are a few layouts I've created the past weeks. Enjoy!

I created this page the night of Shane's graduation. I had a hard time choosing the photos to scrap, but now I have a mini-album in the works. See sketch here.

This is my sister's adorable dog. He gives more kisses to me than anyone else (even his mom) and he's going to keep me company next weekend. Yeah! You'll see many more layouts with his cute mug. See sketch here.

I absolutely love this layout I created last week. My take on the sketch is more abstract, but I had to follow my creative flow. Just a note: it will take lots of time to fussy cut the butterflies so put in a good movie to pass the time. Another note: if you haven't scrapped your special traits then do it this weekend.

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Something very exciting is coming on June 1st....stayed tuned!

I won't be M.I.A. anymore

2009-05-26T21:50:00.006-06:00

Sorry for being missing in action for a few weeks, but I have some great excuses. Here they are in no particular order:

Shane graduated with his Master's degree. He has worked so hard for two years writing a 150-page thesis and teaching undergraduate classes, so this day came with many emotions. At the ceremony I cried and laughed and cheered and cried again. I'm so proud of him and can't wait to see what his future holds.

To add to our celebration, we had two, not one but two, graduation parties for the master. Here he is holding his beautiful diploma frame his parents gave him. When we hang it on the wall it will all be official.

To add to our excitement, throw in a couple mother's day events, a breast cancer walk, the Flight of the Conchords concert, and a Memorial Day camping trip with family.

But I'm back now and won't be gone so long again. Come back this week because I have an exciting announcement and a giveaway to tell you about.

Tiptoe Through The Tulips

2009-05-05T21:43:00.010-06:00

Well, we more like wandered, strolled and sauntered through the tulips. I've been a little bit down lately so Shane took me to the Thanksgiving Point Tulip Festival. I was so happy walking around the beautiful gardens and spending the afternoon with Shane. And I can't forget this cute conversation:

Shane: Do you like my tulips?
Jen: What?
Shane: Do you like my two lips (puckering his lips together). They're the best two lips you'll see.

Me checking out his two lips in the Fragrance Garden. Here are some other favorite photos from the day.

The beautiful walkways

Me posing in the Fragrance Garden

So colorful! I'm already getting ideas for my layouts.

Shane on the bridge near the Waterfall Garden

The sweet smell of spring and fresh flowers filled the air.

(Hint, hint Shane): this would be a great place to take engagement photos.

Self portrait in the Mountain Garden

I'm so happy that spring is here in full bloom (no pun intended. okay maybe a little :0) I hope this made your day a little brighter.

And the winner is...

2009-05-03T19:09:00.004-06:00

These five lucky winners have won a copy of the Scrapbook Play with Photos special issue plus an extra mustache goodie used in the issue:

Martha said...I love the mustache too! Simple was my favorite magazine of all the magazines out there for scrapbooking. Thank goodness for blogs!

JPScraps said...I really want to step up my photography skills and this looks like just the help I need.

Stacey said...I love Simple!!! It totally made me realize I just need to focus on the pictures and journaling, not having a perfect layout. It will be missed.

stamphappy2001 said...I don't have this issue yet, but sure hope to get my hands on one. I will miss Simple.

Dalon said...I am trying to keep up with the "simple" gals this week and every post I read makes me smile - I can't even imagine how much fun you all had working together!! you all shared it with us in the work you did, but you're still sharing now ... and THAT is pretty neat - thank you so much!!! (nice mustache by the way!!)

And the winner of my Making Memories prize pack is:

craftyliu said...I loved the "Quick and Easy Photo Albums" special issue. So many great ideas! My copy is all worn out from thumbing through it so much!

Please email me your full name and address at jenwozab@gmail.com. Hope you had a great weekend.

Celebrate Simple Week: Biggest Prize Giveaway Yet!

2009-05-01T20:24:00.004-06:00

My Internet at the cabin is on the fritz but I don't want you to miss your chance to enter the Biggest Prize Giveaway Yet this week.

The following is copied from Angie Lucas's blog.*
How would you like to be one of five blog readers who will either win an Epson Artisan 700 Photo All-in-One Printer (two up for grabs) or a Making Memories Desktop Carousel (three up for grabs)? These are hefty prizes, folks.

Leave a comment on Angie Lucas's blog, Cathy Zielske's blog, and Wendy Smedley's blog today. Comments will close at 10 p.m. MST on Saturday, May 2, at which time Angie will pool all the comments from all three blogs and pick the five winners. Make sure you comment on each blog to triple your chances of winning! I wonder if I could enter???
end of copied message from Angie's blog*

And don't forget to enter my two giveaways here and here. Then check out my blog tomorrow because I'll post some more Simple memories, share a layout that I'm creating while on vacation, and share pictures from today's Zion adventures.

Celebrate Simple Week: Keep On Partying

2009-04-30T17:51:00.001-06:00

As I write this blog post, I'm lounging around a cozy cabin outside Zion National Park. My family and I have several adventures lined up in the next few days and I promise to share photos.

Speaking of adventures, I want to share another favorite experience with Simple. During my short stint as the associate editor, I took part in writing and editing bits and pieces of the latest special issue, Scrapbook Play with Photos. And when I say bits and pieces, I'm referring to the materials lists and editor sidebars. :0) I was happy to help out in any way possible. This playful special issue includes over 100 new ideas to make your photos and your scrapbook layouts fun and fresh. Check out my layout on page 30. If you would like to win a copy of Scrapbook Play with Photos, plus some extra mustache goodies leftover after we shot the special issue, then leave a comment. It's as simple as that!

This photo is proof how much my job ROCKED! My responsibility for this special issue was to organize and label all the scrapbook layouts (for the materials lists), participate in a photo shoot (Wendy, Marin, and I couldn't stop laughing), and then help Megan (who wrote this issue in only a couple of weeks) write and edit the content for the issue. I always looked forward to going to work each day.

Check out the blogs of our cute Simple gals Celeste, Margaret, Beth, and my fellow copy editor Rachel for more chances to win fabulous prizes.

Behind on blogging

2009-04-29T21:18:00.002-06:00

Hi everyone,

I apologize for not posting earlier today, but my day has been so busy. Here's a brief explanation so you understand my delay.

Deep cleaned the kitchen today. We're talking cleaning out the fridge, cleaning the oven, washing walls, and organizing kitchen cabinets.
Preparing for a long weekend in Zion's National Park so I needed to finish laundry, pack our bags, and go grocery shopping. I promise to share my adventure pictures when I get back. Here's what you can look forward to: beautiful scenic photos from our day hikes and me sitting on a porch drinking beer. :0)
Shane is graduating next Friday with his master's degree. Woot woot! We've been looking forward to this day for two years. With his graduation day looming, I had to meet his mom on campus to check out a parking strategy and enjoy a tasty lunch at Tony Caputo's market.

Phew! I've had a busy day, and now I off to finish my scrapbook layout for my latest Pink Sketches assignment.

If you want a chance to win more prizes check out these blogs: Elisha Snow, Cheryl Overton, Marnie Flores, and Rebecca Cooper.

Celebrate Simple Week: My Simple Story

2009-04-28T10:43:00.005-06:00

This week we are celebrating Simple Scrapbooks magazine by sharing our favorites stories and memories, by giving away some fabulous prizes (I'll tell you where to go each day to win), and keeping the Simple philosophy alive through our own blogs. I hope you'll join me this week to celebrate...you won't be disappointed.

Let's get started. I wanted to share my Simple story with you today and, of course, announce my fantastic giveaway.

My first issue
I remember the first issue of Simple I picked up. I was at the Making Memories store in Bountiful and the cover of the November 2006 issue caught my eye. I was making my mom a calendar/year-in-review project for Christmas and I was hitting a creative roadblock. This issue not only provided me with inspiration to complete my project, it jumpstarted me back into scrapbooking on a regular basis. I would treat myself to the new issue every other month, counting down the days until it would be on sale.

Working in the industry
Years went by, I worked a few jobs but my career wasn't heading in the direction that I wanted it to. I remember telling my mom that I would love to work in the scrapbooking industry. A few months later, while looking for a job for my mom, I found an opening in the events dept. at CK Media. I knew this was the opportunity I was looking for to join the industry. I got the job, worked in the dept. for 6 months, traveled to several CKC, and then heard that Simple Scrapbooks was hiring. I didn't hesitate to apply. And as you all know...I got the job. I was thrilled! Call it luck, fate, or pure coincidence, I was going to work for my favorite magazine.

Short and sweet experience
My stint as associate editor was short and sweet. I was only there six months but I improved greatly as a writer and as a scrapbooker. I built relationships with some amazing women (who I still scrapbook with on Wednesdays), learned the value of teamwork, learned the importance of finding "me time" to create, and most of all, had the opportunity to inspire women all around the world through Simple. And for that, I have something to celebrate this week.

So let's get this party started with a giveaway. One lucky winner will a prize pack from Making Memories including a beautiful 12x12 album, patterned paper, letter stickers, ribbon, and more. Just leave a comment either sharing a favorite Simple memory or your favorite issue of Simple. I'll announce the winner on Sunday.

For your chance to win even more prizes, check out these blogs today for additional giveaways: Elizabeth Dillow and Candice Palmer.

Tomorrow I'll share some layouts inspired from the last issue of Simple and tell you about more prize giveaways. See you then.

Layout of Love

2009-04-26T21:25:00.004-06:00

Shane and I recently celebrated our 3-year anniversary (of dating) a few weeks ago. This milestone made me realize one major thing: I have three years of photos to scrapbook. At first this realization made me feel overwhelmed but then I embraced this scrapbooking feat. I made a little pact to enjoy my time organizing photos and remembering the stories behind them instead of feeling unorganized. To enjoy preserving these photos on layouts and in mini-albums so that we have a tangible record of our lives and not feel like every page needs to be publishable. To enjoy the journey without feeling "behind."

To get started with this project, I didn't know where to start (and I never will) so I chose three of my favorite photos of us and created a layout that I now LOVE. Oh, and I was inspired by the cute bird paper by Sassafrass Lass too.

I created this layout following a sketch from pink sketches. If you notice I made a makeshift "e" because I didn't have enough letter stickers. I first trimmed the top off the letter "j" (in the top right hand corner) so it would be the same size as the "s" and then placed the extra piece over a spare letter "c". It was easy as a, b, c or is that 1, 2, 3?

13.1 miles is a long distance

2009-04-19T18:38:00.006-06:00

WE DID IT!
We finished the Salt Lake half marathon.

Here are a few thoughts about our day:
It was all about time. Wake up time (4:30 a.m.), race start time (7 a.m.) and of course, our finish times. Shane's official finish time: 2:01:28. My official finish time: 2:44:22. We both did better than we expected.

It was a beautiful day.

We both enjoyed the course and the entertainment along the course, especially the ladies in sparkly gold jackets singing. It was surreal to be running right down the middle of Foothill Blvd and State St.

We didn't like the huge hill at the end around mile 11 (mile 24 for full marathon runners). Actually, we think it's a cruel, cruel thing to do. FYI for the race planners next year.

Completing this half marathon makes me feel strong and healthy. This training has changed my life for the better, I won't return to couch potato mode ever again.

Our muscles are so tired and sore today but it's a reminder that we completed the race; we reach a goal together.

Shane and I are already talking about the next half marathon.

Goodnight Sweethearts

2009-03-30T22:04:00.010-06:00

Happy Anniversary Shane

2009-03-27T21:30:00.003-06:00

Shane said this to me tonight: After 3 years, I can't imagine life without you.

It made me cry. I love you too honey. It's been an adventurous 3 years.

Half marathon training milestone

2009-03-24T20:04:00.003-06:00

Yesterday, I reached a milestone in my half marathon training. I ran 5 miles. Now this may not seem like a feat to the seasoned runner, but to me, a couch-potato beginner, it felt incredible. Not only was I able to run the distance, but I kept a steady pace and maintained endurance. When I stepped off the treadmill with a satisfactory time, I felt so proud of myself.

Getting ready for a typical run

This training has not been easy. First of all, I went from working out casually once or twice a week to maintaining a strict workout routine six days a week. Each week, I have been running 3-4 days a week and swimming laps on my cross-training days. I think the sudden change in exercise shocked my system because I dealt with many ailments along the way: seizing calf muscles (where I couldn't even walk), shin splints, pulling my lower back out, side aches, and more. Dragging my butt to the gym each day has not been easy. This experience has come with many tears, tantrums, and excuses (I could write a book).

My trusty Mizuno running shoes

And about two weeks ago, I almost did the unthinkable...give up. Shane encouraged me to keep trying but not in a cheerleader way, more like the football coach yelling in your ear. I heard, "This is something you've always wanted to do and you'll regret it," and "it doesn't matter how long it takes you to finish as long as you finish." Wise words coming from the man who ran a 10K (6.2 miles) last week in 57 minutes. But he's right. If I have to walk, waddle, or limp across the finish line on April 18, I'm going to finish.

Spring Fling: Things I Love Right Now

2009-03-21T11:31:00.011-06:00

Yeah! Spring is finally here. I've opened up the windows to let the fresh air in. I'm actually excited to run outside today because it's so beautiful. And I can't wait to jump start my creativity this spring. Here are some things that I love right now, and my creativity is bursting at the seams.

The Pink Sketches blog
As a new member of the team, check out my page design from this week. Then mark your google reader because a new sketch posts each Sunday.

Knit hat with chick applique
So cute! And there is a bunny ear knit hat too.

7 Reusable La Petit Sandwich Bags
Now I have some inspiration for finding a job...so I can take snacks to work in these cute bags.

Love is like a butterfly notecards
I'm going to pull out my butterfly stamps and get creative.

Apple of My Eye Pillow
Oh...I just want to take a big bite out of this yummy pillow.

Happy St. Patrick's Day

2009-03-17T17:02:00.006-06:00

Happy St. Patrick's Day!

Pour yourself a Guinness.

drink

and enjoy!

Pink Sketches Design Team Member - that's me!

2009-03-01T15:52:00.004-07:00

I did it! I made the Pink Sketches Design Team. Check out the announcement here.

I have to hurry and get ready for dinner with Shane's family but I'll write more about the experience later and share my winning layouts. I can't stop smiling. :o)

Jen

Happy 50th Birthday Dad

2009-02-26T23:25:00.006-07:00

What! You're how old? We can hardly believe it.

HAPPY 50TH BIRTHDAY DAD

Happy Valentines Day

2009-02-14T20:58:00.006-07:00

Last Valentines I made a big deal over the holiday. It had to be romantic, and we had to go out, and we had to spend all this time together. So while Shane and I waited an hour for our table at Z Tejas we got into a HUGE fight. I don't know what it was about, but I remember being mad our entire dinner.

This year, I didn't want Valentines to be a big deal. I just wanted to hang out with Shane. And that's what Shane had in mind too. We slept in and stayed in bed all morning. We have the best talks in bed. He even surprised me with this beautiful necklace and earrings from Ten Thousand Villages.

Then I surprised Shane by making him a "heart"-healthy breakfast before our 5-mile run.

Then we spent the day together just hanging out. It was exactly what I wanted. I also realized that I don't need Valentines Day as an excuse to spend days like this with Shane.

Now I'm off to cuddle on the couch with my sweetheart. Hope you have a Happy Valentines Day too.

Need a great laugh

2009-02-06T00:14:00.002-07:00

If you need a great laugh, watch this funny clip from the Ellen show here. You won't be disappointed.

New Year resolutions - start a blog!

2009-01-28T21:45:00.000-07:00

I know, I know, it's January 28 and I'm still talking about my New Year's resolutions. If this were last year, I would have already given up on them, but this year I decided to make my goals more specific and more attainable. To help motivate me, I created this scrapbook page:

Fitness goal: Run the SLC half marathon
I've already signed up so I'm committed to running the dang thing. Today is Day 4 of my training and I'll keep you posted of my progress. I'd like my butt to look really good in a smaller jean size. :0)

Scrapbooking and photography goals: Take a photo everyday, known as Project 365.
I've been very good this month taking photos and I'll post all the images this weekend. I hope to buy a new camera soon and take some photography classes. But it's only January; there's still plenty of time. :0)

Personal goal: Be happy with ME!
This one won't be easy but I know I can do it. I get down on myself for being me, but I can't be anybody else, so I have to like me for me! Each day I'm going to work on reminding myself how fabulous I am. I even have a cute project in the works that I plan to share later.

Technology goal: Start a blog!
Yeah, I did it. I've entered the world of blogging. I'm so fabulous. :0)

Enjoy!
Jen