Curth's Digital Designs

New Artist

2010-09-02T10:45:00.002-04:00

After a very LONG break in blogging, creating, etc I'm happy to announce that Curth's Digital Designs has a new artist on board.
My daughter Jaime is joining me!!
Jaime is an amazing artist and person! At this early point in her career she is awesomely poised and confident (confidence is something she's always been good with). She has an incredible people skills and enjoys a great variety of "traditional" and "non-traditional" activites, including raising and showing pigs, photography, texting, gardening, leadership activities, etc.
She has done some incredible protrait and still life photography work, creative work involving digital designs including tee shirt designs for her FFA chapter, etc. She has an amazing eye for balance (or creative lack thereof), color and design. I can't wait to see the creative direction that she chooses!!
In the next few weeks I'll post some of her work for everyone to see.
Happy scrapping,
maryanne

new computer

2008-10-08T23:14:00.001-04:00

Sorry I've been gone so long.
My computer crashed and it's taken a long time to get a replacement.
Hopefully life will become easier soon and I'll be playing again!
ttyl
maryanne

I'll be back soon!!

2008-08-29T23:17:00.002-04:00

Hi everyone,

It seems like forever since I've been able to play!

We picked the girls up from State Fair on Sunday and I don't have a clue where this week went! They go back to school on Tuesday, so I won't do too much for another few days. I can't believe my little one is leaving for school! Unless I get a job I'll have more time to clean and scrap, lol. You know which I'd do if I had my choice.

I did get to create a layout today, since I grounded 1 dd from the computer, 1 was helping her dad and the littlest actually played outside today. This is not my typical layout, I did it as an 12x12 for my great nephew. It was so much fun to do, lol.

See you again soon

maryanne

Wishing I was here...

2008-08-19T09:49:00.002-04:00

Hi everyone,
Sorry I've not been around this week. It's "turn-over" time at the apartments. We are getting 26 apartments ready for new tenants this week at my dh's work and he needs my help. So very little computer time, 20 hour days, sleeping on a blow up bed and scrubbing toilets, sinks and tubs are not much fun when you've been doing it for 25 years! lol
Hope to see ya'll soon.
Scrap one for me :)
MaryAnne

Fair Week Templates and Photo's

2008-08-12T08:26:00.010-04:00

Hi everyone,

Just a reminder, if you've missed any Fair Week Templates you can still get them.

See the info on the right side of my blog.

Cathy did. Here's her layout

You can go to her gallery to give her layout some love!

By completing just 1 layout and emailing me the link, Cathy will receive ALL of the Fair Week Templates, delivered right to her email!

Here are some photo's we took during fair.
Jaime and Willie playing around the exhibits at the beginning of fair.

The Almont Squealers 4H club: Jaime, Heather, Tyra, Gabby, Willie and Jessica

Tyra in her showmanship class.
Jaime in her showmanship class.

Jaime and Heather in Market class.

Jessica in her showmanship class

Jessica received a trophy

Heather with her Grand Champion Carcass trophy, Jessica with her showmanship trophy and Gabby with her Reserved Grand Champion Carcass trophy

There's always some time for a visit.

Isn't she cute!!!!!???

Gabby, Brian and Jessica on Auction day in Gabby's pen

Jaime shows her 1st place ribbon for her Market Class hog, while waiting on auction day.

There's always work to be done

I'd like to take a moment to send a Thank You to all the individuals or companies that supported the kids during the livestock auction by purchasing an animal.

A special Thank You to:Roberts Buick for puchasing Jaimes 2008 Market hog

and All Green Lawn Care for puchasing Tyras 2008 Market hog.

Without your support the children wouldn't be able to have this great experience!

Now back to random photo's

After a hard and fast rain, the kids can't help but play in the puddles.

When there's nothing else to do, pretending to show using your baby cousin is always fun.

Gotta go to work now, hopefully I'll have a template later tonight.

Happy Scrapping,

MaryAnne

PS. I finished a template and my layout :)

Here's a Simple Stacks Template Freebie for you

Download it Here

ttyl, maryanne

Home again

2008-08-11T08:23:00.003-04:00

Hi everyone,
By the time I arrived at the fairground, cleanup was almost complete. You would have a hard time believing there were 5 tents of animals, carnival rides, food booths, a circus and more, if you didn't see it before. But the weather liked to play tricks on us in the last few hours, so as we were packing up the supplies and camper, it rained. By 5pm we were on our way home again, to our pet left outside and comfortable beds, oh yeah and the flea's who hadn't had a meal in a week! Time to bomb!
Kids immediately stole my computer, I think they were in withdrawl too. But I planned ahead and created 8 Fair Week Freebies, knowing I wouldn't get to play as soon as I got home.
So here's today's freebie
Sorry this link has been removed
Lots to do today, bomb the house, grocery shop, download 2000 photo's from my sd cards, create layouts, make freebies, etc.

ttyl
maryanne

Rain, awards and trucks?

2008-08-10T09:46:00.004-04:00

Hi everyone,
Well yesterday was sure a lot of fun! But I'm kinda glad it's over, everyone is exhausted!
In the middle of the last day we saw a huge black cloud headed for the fair grounds. Within about an hour we received about 3 inches of rain. Everything is drenched, even my ketchup! After the rain the sun began to peak out again, just in time for the awards, an indoor activity, lol. Tyra won 3rd place Livestock judging, with the senior team and 2nd place in Speeches for her division. Jaime won 1st place in Livestock judging with a junior team, 3rd place in Livestock judging as an individual in the junior division and 1st place in speeches for her division (I just know that kids going to be a lawyer or something where she can talk, lol)
When it was all over I asked my bil when they would be loading the hogs in the morning, so I could come back to help clean up the trailer while the kids were in the pens, etc. He said 12:01. Didn't dawn on me for a minute he meant AM which was about half an hour, lol (they are nuts).
Well I didn't stay, I have a 5 year old who needed to go to bed.
Oh, yeah then the kids gave their leaders a thank you gift and their leaders gave the kids a little gift (it was so much fun making this one happen) I'll post a photo as soon as I get one.

Ok now my freebie before I forget
Sorry link has been removed

happy scrapping,
maryanne

Last full day of fair

2008-08-09T07:40:00.004-04:00

Well fairs almost over, just this last day before they have to clean up and move the animals. I can't believe how fast the week went! I took about 300 photo's again yesterday, just enough for some great layouts! Today are the awards, more photos!!

Here's todays freebie
Sorry link removed
There are 8 unique freebies, 1 for every day of fair. I just used the same preview because of limited net access. So, remember if you've missed a fair week freebie, go to the original fair week post to see how you can still get them

happy scrapping

maryanne

4H Dance today

2008-08-08T10:19:00.004-04:00

Hi everyone,
Thanks for your great comments! Just wanna remind you I have very limited net use this week, so if you've asked me something I'll try to get back to you by the first of next week.
Today's the dance, more chances for photo's
Oh I forgot they want to do the club photo today, gotta run
Here's todays Freebie

Sorry link removed

MaryAnne

Auction day

2008-08-07T06:45:00.004-04:00

Hi everyone,
It's 6:48 am, I can't believe how little sleep I get this week, lol.
But today is the day of the auction, so there's no time for a nap.
I can't wait to go back to my own bed!!!
I hope everyone is enjoying the freebies.
I saw only 59 downloads of yesterdays, so I'll leave it up a bit longer
Today's Freebie

Sorry link removed

MaryAnne

Wednesday...

2008-08-06T13:33:00.004-04:00

Ride Day!

Got 500+ photo's of the pig show yesterday.
Don't forget tonight, Wednesday July 6th 9pm is DXD Mega Kit Chat
the kit will be on sale and there are freebies for everyone
today's Freebie

Sorry link removed

If you've missed a fair week freebie, see my note on the first day of fair for how you can still get it.
Happy Scrapping,
MaryAnne

show day

2008-08-05T06:46:00.004-04:00

Hi everyone,
Whats worse than having insominia?
Having insomnina at the fair grounds, the animals wake up at like 4:30am!
Sorry link has been removed

Happy scrapping
maryanne

That time of year...

2008-08-04T10:27:00.011-04:00

Hi everyone,
Well it's that time of year again. My girls have been gone for 4 days now over to their Aunt and Uncles for fair and I must go now too. (I just miss them so much! but don't tell them, lol)
Tomorrow, Tuesday is the day of the pig show so I'll be heading over to show my support and take lots of photo's, therefore my computer time is very very limited. So here's something for you.

Darn my poem isn't very readable, lol. Well here's what is says: I‘m off to the fair, where computer time is limited, but photo ops are found.I’ll post a template a day, which one I can’t say.Visit, download and then take a peak. show me your wonderful creations by then next time we speak. I’ll have another little surprise for you all, don’t know if it’s big, can’t say if it’s small. This offer is limited so please don’t delay, go and get your Simple Stacks Template Freebie today.
Like this ad says, this offer is limited! Since I am a nut about my freebies and my numbers, I will try to post 1 template a day, but I won't know which one it is and these will only be available for a short time! (just a day or so)

If you missed one that you just have to have, send me an email with a link to a Simple Stacks layout you've created and which day you've missed during fair week and I'll see what the freebie fairy can do when we get home early next week.
Don't forget the blog challenges on the right side of this page and DXD's Mega Kit Chat 9pm on Wednesday August 6th!
When I get back I hope to have a little more information on creating yearbooks with Simple Stacks for you.
Until then,
Happy Scrapping
MaryAnne

Oops, I almost forgot you can get today's sorry link has been removed

Edited to say: Thank you to all who collected my Fair Week Freebies. Sorry all Fair week freebie links have now been removed. mc 8/13/08

No power :( again!!

2008-08-03T22:35:00.004-04:00

Hi everyone,

Sorry I'm late if you visited earlier.

We awoke at 6 am due to a power out!

No storms, no nothing, just nothing!

It was pretty frustrating, since dh made me go to bed early on Saturday after watching movies all evening. I'm starting to go through withdrawl, lol.

The good news is I waited them out! They said we wouldn't have power again until 11:36pm Sunday. I laid in the livingroom willing to doze if I would, but I didn't and the second the power was restored, 10:15pm, I checked the freezer and booted up my computer!

Now I don't have any layouts to share, that's the bad thing about digi scrapping. Unless you have a laptop and I'm in negotiations for one.

I just visited the DXD Store and you can now pick up your own copy of the DXD Mega Kit Country Foliage for the low sale price of $3.99 for a limited time.

This is a great deal, I loved playing with the collection this week. It has 80+ papers and over 100 elements, check it out

Even though I couldn't scrap, I had my Simple Stacks Templates ready to share.

So here is today's Simple Stacks Template Freebie

Download it here.

It's only 10:41pm, so I'm off to scrap!

Happy Scrapping,

maryanne

ps. be sure to check out my blog challenges in the right hand column, I'd love to send a Simple Stacks Prize pack to you!

Pss. I finished my layout for today, no more withdrawls, lol. Well ok I almost finished one. This one my dd has to finish for me. I'm going to have her do the journaling. I don't do that enough, it sure makes "completing" a layout easy for me, lol.

I used a hand stamped alpha created by Michelle Coleman and Phoebes Garden QP created by Lindsay Jane Designs (altered to fit in a Simple Stack Album)

ttyl

maryanne

Finished my work

2008-08-02T13:42:00.002-04:00

Hi Everyone,

Yeah me!! I finished my DXD Mega Kit Quick Pages this morning. The Quick Pages are used on the first Wednesday of the month at 9pm during the Digi By Designs chat.The August 2008 Mega Kit is awesome! I don't see it in the store yet, but I'll let you know when it's on sale, in case you're interested.

So with my work done, I played! Only 8 more layouts for dd#1's 2006-2007 yearbook to go now. Here's the one from this morning.

I used Simple Stacks Template 109, so this will be todays Simple Stacks Template Freebie!

Download it Here

taking a break, dh asked how I can sit and do this so long, lol.

Happy Scrapping,

MaryAnne

Create a brag book, but stay away from an OMG moment, ok maybe 4 hours lol...

2008-08-01T09:00:00.007-04:00

Hi everyone,
If you've visited me for a while now, then you probably know I work daily to create my daughters each a yearbook, using a standart 4x6 photo album. It's inexpensive and fun. While I do this, I post freebies for everyone and usually include some kind of layout both for an example and so I can brag about my girls.
Last night, actually really really early this morning, I began "dealing" with a computer situation that has been pestering me for about 2-3 weeks. Really I'm not a procrastinator. I just hate changing things on my system. If it's not broken why fix it, kwim? Well in the middle of "creating" I began working to get the program to stop pestering me. A short, or rather a long, time later, since it was 12am - 4am, I restarted my computer in every kind of way possible (safe mode, safe mode with networking, etc.) I really thought I had done it this time. I'm a software nut. I enjoy seeing what I can make software do. But I do not like virus or anti spyware programs. They ALWAYS mess my computer up for a great amout of time. Time I could be scrapping! It was so bad I had to complete my newest layout in safe mode, lol. By 4am I had had enough. I figured I'd have to ask dh for help tonight. So I went to bed. Needless to say it bothered my sleep. I went over the events multiple times. Questioning how I did this or why'd it do that. I'm happy to say I at least managed to uninstall the program in question! So I could get back to work, lol.
Ok then, I'm working!
In my comments yesterday, someone asked what an "electric guy" would want with a hog? (my sister would be so proud of me) here's where I get to "educate" in case you never knew.
4H offers a variety of agricultural opportunities to members. My girls are in the 4H club 2 hours to the east. My sister and bil are their leaders, great ones too. So every year my girls visit their aunt and uncle, or as dd#2 states "my summer house", multiple times during the summer to get everything ready for fair. They participate in multiple areas at fair, including livestock contests and indoor projects. Well one thing they do is "show pigs". My dh always asks, "what do they show them? lol" I never know if he's kidding or not. Anyway, they get in the ring and walk these almost 300 lbs animals around while a judge stands or walks around. The judge chooses 1-6 place of which child "shows" the animal best or in the case of Market Hogs, which animal is the most desirable based on multiple criteria. After the show, the kids choose 1 animal to put in the auction. Benefactors come to the auction and purchase these animals for anywhere from .60 cents a pound to $7.00 a pound. The benefactors buy the animals for multiple reasons - to support the children who are participating, to get meat to eat, etc. They will even buy an animal then send it back through the auction, so the kid can make more money from it. Basically giving a donation. Well my girls have been showing for 6 years now and they've never gotten over about .80/pound. But this doesn't bother them, because after it is all said and done my sister gives each girl a check for somewhere between $100.00 and $300.00, after taking "expenses" out of their fair checks. My girls use their "fair money" for mostly "educational opportunites" (saving a bit for college, taking a course, paying for education related expenses like playing volleyball, competitive cheer - since our school now has a pay to play policy and we just don't make enough to cover expeses) Like I said my sister and my brother in law are awesome leaders! They care so much about kids!! Anyway, if you ever have a chance to support a child in 4h, please consider doing so. If you have a business, you can even write it off your taxes!
Ok then, I have to show you how far I got on my layout.
If you'd like to leave the layout love please visit my gallery (it's so lonely, lol)
I used Simple Stacks Template 113, available
to download here (sorry to everyone who downloaded earlier this morning, I had a duh moment. This file includes the psd file of the template now. Three and a half hours of sleep is just not enough)
Cross your fingers for my ease in completing my computer corrections
Happy Scrapping,
MaryAnne

PS. I'm always on the look out for 4x6 quick pages. While browsing this morning I found a zoo quick page freebie and they've created some of them in a 4x6 portrait style. These could be used in your 4x6 album as individual pages!!

Here's a preview

Visit Creations By Rachael to pick them up.

maryanne

ok I think it's done :) full credits are in my Gallery

One more...

2008-07-31T13:23:00.003-04:00

Hi everyone,

I finished Tyras 2006 fair layout!!! Yeah!

I used todays Simple Stacks Freebie

Download it Here

The girls left about 2 hours ago to get ready for this years fair. Funny how quiet the house gets, lol. Well I have somewhere near 123 layouts to do just to catch up the girls yearbooks and I have to complete DXD Mega Kit QP's before I head off to the fair.

ttyl

MaryAnne

Brag books have never been simplier...

2008-07-30T07:32:00.005-04:00

Hi everyone,

I have this layout that I've been "thinking about" for a long time now, but I couldn't start. I'm not sure, maybe I didn't want to start, lol. After all if I didn't create a layout for it, did it really happen? I know one reason it was harder than it should have been, is because it was in 2007 and I didn't take as many photo's as I liked because I was in pain from my back then. My dd#2 figured out how to cope, she started taking her own photo's, lol. And man does she take them, here's one she took this week.I wish they had signed her up for photography class at the fair. This is priceless! She tries some amazine things with the camera.
So here I sat, limited photo's and no plan. But I never underestimate the "fly by the seat of your pants" technique. With a couple of odd elements from a variety of sources, it really is easy to make a Simple Stacks layout! Brag books have never been simplier.

Hey I was wondering do you all copy and save layouts you like in a special folder? So that way when you create a layout for yourself, you have some idea's to draw from. I've had a few friends say that's one thing they liked about my blogging about Simple Stacks. I have lots of layouts posted that are based on a Simple Stacks. If you pick up a Simple Stacks template and the layout I've posted using that template, you have a starting point and a concrete idea of ways to use the template. That said, here is the layout I finished last night

full credits and journaling are posted in my gallery

But I've done it again. This layout I didn't use any Simple Stacks, it just came out of my head while I was creating it.

I do have a Simple Stacks template freebie for you though,
Download it here

Going to pick up some photo's,
Happy Scrapping,
MaryAnne

You can't make a square peg fit into a round hole...

2008-07-29T08:15:00.003-04:00

Hi everyone,

Yesterday I told you that you can use kits, Quick Pages, Word Art, etc., even if they are designed for 12x12's, along with Simple Stacks Templates. I should have realized this is probably new to most who are trying their hand at a 4x6 scrapbook. So in case you were one of 2 who asked more questions about this or you're wondering too, here's a quick little "tutorial".

Using something designed for a 12x12 layout with Simple Stacks:

When you're searching the net or your stash, for products you'd like to use in a scrapbook layout, you'll probably find a LOT designed for 12x12 layouts. Each kit, QP and Word Art will present it's own complications.

For Example with this 12x12 QP:

I notice:

the "window" where the photo will be is slightly to the left (so it won't have a page break directly in the center of the page split)

It's clear around the edges (so I won't be cutting off sections I like)

So to prepare this for my Simple Stacks layout, first I resize it to 8x8 or as close to it without going under (occassionally it will be 8.04 x 8.04, it all depends on the item, but when resizing it must be 8" or just above. If it's below 8" you will have a gap)

Then crop your new 8x8 to 8x6. You can crop between the 1 and 7 inch marks or anywhere on the vertical 8" side so the resulting 8x6 looks good.

Check where the 4" break will occur on the horizontal 8" side
You want to be careful the middle of your photo, journaling or title doesn't fall directly on the 4" crop line.

The result:

You can see the photo and it's not cut down the center. You can read the journaling and it's not broken akwardly in the text. You can read your title and it will not be cropped off.

Tricks to remember: You can always crop something smaller than 8x6 and put it on another background, even slightly askewed to make it look appealing in the smaller setting.

Clear as mud? If you have a specific item you are wondering about, please feel free to email me. Include either a screen shot of the item you are trying to use or link to where I can find a copy to check for you.

Well yesterday I got busy again!

Finished the "last" layout in Jessica's 2007-2008 book, just a few in the middle to do to go to catch up now, lol.

I used an incredible new kit "Not Boys, Just Girls", created by Sarah Kozul found here along with todays freebie. Full credits are included in the description found here.

Download it Here

Ok, here's the square peg part, lol. I used this template out of sequence. This is Simple Stacks Template 119, so there are a few between yesterday's template and today. Sorry if this causes any confusion, it just worked for my birthday layout.

Happy Scrapping,

MaryAnne

Simple Stacks make the best Brag Books...

2008-07-28T09:08:00.003-04:00

Hi everyone,

Ok, so now I am officially 2 years behind in scrapping dd#1 and dd#3's yearbooks! But I've said that already. How am I going to fix it? I will be 2 years behind in dd#2's book by the 1st of October and dd#1 will graduate next spring, so I have to catch up soon. My plan is to catch up by October 1st!

Did you know Simple Stacks can be used with all kinds of kits, quick pages, word art, etc? That's one of the things I really enjoy about using them. All you have to crop or resize items to make them fit, if they are designed as 12x12's. Now not every design does work, but it's fun to try to see what you can make fit.

Today I found this beautiful 12x12 Quick Page Freebiecreated by Cinnamon Designs, found here.

After finding this QP, I went to look for a Simple Stacks that would work with it's design.

I found Simple Stacks Template 068, all I had to do was flip it horizontally.which was template freebie 9 found here, in case you haven't gotten it yet.

I put them together with a little word art found at Elegant word art by Bethany and another layout for my dd's yearbook is finished. Simple Stacks really do make the best Brag Books!

That said, I have a new Simple Stacks Template Freebie for you today

Download it Here

This weeks Blog Challenge:

Use a Simple Stacks Template from the last week until thursday of this week

along with a kit, quick page, word art, etc, either purchased or freebie

create a layout

post in any gallery of your choice

email me a link along with your name & email by Friday August 1st.

allow me to post on my blog with credits

and I'll send you a special prize.

Happy Scrapping,

MaryAnne

Sunday, sunday.... la la la la ....

2008-07-27T16:24:00.004-04:00

Hi everyone,

Yesterday we had a great day. Jessica wanted to go see the new Disney movie Wall-e,so we drove to the city, visited with Grandma Peggy and went to the movies. Can't really say if the movie was good (I doozed off, lol). But she had fun anyway. We stopped at the market to pick up potatoes for dinner and she asked for a rose. She loves getting a flower when we go to that market. When she got into the car both her sisters complained, "Why does she get a rose? We've never gotten a rose!" "Because 1)it's her birthday and 2) she asked for it", lol. After the shopping it was time for dinner, cake, then the rest of her presents. For dinner it was steak, mashed potaotes and cucumbers. Then time for Sabrina to come over to help sing Happy Birthday and watch Jessica try to blow out the trick candles, just like Grandpa had. Finally dad got his present out, it was a pirate playmobile ship. That was a hit! Although she loved all the rest of her presents, dad playing with her was the best!

I took plenty of photos and set out bright and early to scrap some, since now I am officially 2 years behind on 2 of my dd's yearbooks, omg!

Here's one layout I finished, using a photo that jaime snapped of Jessica this morning:

I created about 10 new simple stacks today too! Oh yeah, Simple Stacks set 11 is now available at Digi by Design. But today I was working on blog freebies and blog challenge prizes.

Today's Simple Stacks Template Freebie

Download it Here

Thanks for visiting,

Gotta make dinner,

Happy Scrapping,

MaryAnne

Jessica's Birthday :)

2008-07-26T09:42:00.002-04:00

Hi everyone,

Today is Jessica's Birthday, so even though I woke up at 7am, I'm running out of time quickly.

No time to scrap today, lol.

Now to answer Jody's Question/explain me, lol. Sorry if I've confused you Jody or anyone else. Have you ever started doing something one way and in the middle of doing it you change how you're doing it, want to seem to make it easier to keep track of? Well that's me. When I start something I think I've figured out the easiest way to keep track of it, but find I'm wrong, lol.

So I start doing something a little different. When I started giving away Simple Stacks Templates, I thought keeping track of them with freebie #'s would work. But then I started needing/wanting to keep track of how many photo's were on each Simple Stacks Template, both in my kits for sale and freebies. That way I have a variety. I know how many photo's on a template I may prefer is different from others. So in an attempt to be able to track that, I created a list of templates I've made. Well when I was trying to identify the templates the names kept mixing me up. So now I'm just creating templates, naming them sequentually, then deciding if they will become a kit for sale, a freebie, a blog prize, etc. So the numbering will skip around a bit, but they should continue to go up. For example the other day I found a way to make templates faster, so I made up 11 or 12. I looked at all I made and tried to put a balanced # of photo's in the set for sale. I had 2 templates with 1 photo, 2 templates with 2-3 photos and 2 templates with 4+ photos. Then the rest I marked for blog freebies and I'm posting them lowest # first until I run out again. Make sense to anyone else?

Like I said sorry if I've confused anyone.

Gotta run soon, I have a new Simple Stacks Template Freebie for you

Download it here

Happy Scrapping,

MaryAnne

oh, ps. the folders still have the freebie # on them in sequetial order, lol.

I'm so organzied, lol

2008-07-25T08:47:00.003-04:00

Hi everyone,

well I'm still all the way across the state, visiting :)

We had a good day yesterday, Jessica selected a Scooby Doo and an Ice cream cone cake, lol.

She just wanted the ice cream cone filled with frosting!

I have a computer to visit, but this one is never going to create layouts it's too s l o w !!

And I did say I was organized, I may not be able to make any layouts or templates but I made some freebies and uploaded them and the previews before I left home so all I had to do was post them!

Here's Simple Stacks Template 099

Download it Here

Happy Scrapping,

MaryAnne

Freebie for the road...

2008-07-24T08:49:00.003-04:00

Hi Everyone,

Well I'm on the road today to visit with my sister and celebrate Jessica's birthday with my family. I know this weekend will be swamped with her celebration so I got busy last night.

I created Simple Stacks Set 11 (available soon)

A layout

This one was tough for me, especially looking at this photo. I didn't see it then and it's all I can see now when I browse the photo's taken that day. The journaling was... just no words can describe it.

Journaling reads:

There's something about that vacant stare,

Things we didn't know when we were sitting there.

Now all we have are memories.

Instead of photo's of you and me.

I am thankful for you, then and now.

But would someone please tell me how?

How does the sun shine without you here?

How do the birds sing when you're not near?

How will I keep you in my heart?

That would be the place to start.

I will remember until I die.

I will remember and I will cry.

I loved you so very much.

I loved your smile, I loved your touch.

I will go on with just memories.

Because there's no more photo's of you and me.

~written by me

Moving on

I have Simple Stacks Template 097 for you today

Download it here

And there's more on their way :)

Happy Scrapping

Off to take pictures...

MaryAnne

I'm quick today, lol

2008-07-23T12:52:00.005-04:00

Hi everyone,

I have to laugh at myself. When I get to the post page of my blog, I'm always at a loss on what to put as the title. I could just keep typing the same thing, type the date, type "FREEBIES, FREEBIES,FREEBIES!" or a million other things, but not me I have to type something relevant to my day, lol. I think that makes it harder than it should be.

OK, anyway.

For those who know what the last 2 weeks have been like, my day is now out of the toilet!! I'll be seeing you soon, lol. And for those who don't, I finished another layout!! YEAH!! . I was amazed how quickly this one came together for me, after all it's taken 18 months to start! Here's my Simple Stacks layout.

I created this page from a kit that I made way back in 2007 just before these photo's were taken. I was so proud of that kit! When I added it to the first mall I was in, I was really disappointed when, according to the owner of the mall, it only sold like 1 copy. Well I tend to hang on to things, lol. So it's over at Digi By Design, just in case anyone really does like it and wants their own copy. You can find it Here
Ok anyway, I'm really not here to sell today, lol.

So since I created everything on this page, I actually have 2 freebies for you.

First, here is your Simple Stacks Template Freebie for today

Download it Here

and finally, I also made this into a Quick Page for you

Download it Here

Hope you enjoy them.

Time to really get to work, lol.

Happy Scrapping,

MaryAnne

Hi again,

I was browsing the web contemplating another Simple Stacks Template when I stumbled across a page call for Digital Scrapbooking Magazine. Here are the details:

Calls for Digital Scrapbooking December 08/January 09 issue.T3: Tips, Techniques and Tutorials

Our hands-on how-to column, "T3," features both cutting-edge techniques from our Creative Team and tips and tutorials from our talented readers. For this issue, we'll give special consideration to submissions featuring winter holiday themes and time- or money-saving ideas

Here's what we're looking for:

Tips. Have you found a great way to use layer blending modes? A quick fix for less-than-perfect photos? Send us your tips of 50 words or fewer on any digital scrapbooking subject, along with a layout or project that illustrates the tip in action. Select T3 as your layout category to submit tips for consideration.

Techniques. Busy scrapbookers are always looking for ways to make scrapbooking quicker and easier. Send us your time- and stress-saving tricks, along with a layout or project that shows how you've used them to create.

I was thinking this might be a good place to submit a Simple Stacks layout. huh?!!

They are great time/stress savers and they make perfect affordable gifts :)

Go Here to find the submission form.

Back to browsing,

maryanne

Sending some love and another freebie

2008-07-22T16:22:00.002-04:00

Hi Everyone,

I am just about to burst today!! I had 2 emails and a comment about Simple Stacks and they just made me so happy!

Ok, first thing, did you know everytime you tell me you've uploaded to a gallery I have to find it, just to see your layouts, lol. It's like an obsession I have! I just MUST see it! Then I have to register, so I can comment!! I am a "member" at so many online galleries, lol.

You have got to go see "goog's" layouts! Outstanding work!!

She asked a question in her comment about "submitting a layout for publication". Here are my "requirements" for the challenge (a basic do x, y, z list) and here is information on where to find "print magazines" to sumit a Simple Stacks layout for publication.

And I'm really not too picky or strick, lol.

If you find a digital newsletter or ezine that you've submitted your layout for publication with, I'll count that too. Just copy and paste a section of the email or web page (you can do a Print Screen and send a copy with your email to me) where you've submitted a Simple Stacks layout for publication. You're layout does NOT have to be published for me to appreciate and reward your efforts! Just send me an email include your name, your email, a copy of a print screen selection that shows you've submitted a Simple Stacks layout for publication. The print screen selection should show me the publications name or you can just put that in your email to me, so I know what publications to watch for a Simple Stacks layout.

oh, oh, oh, I just thought of another Blog Challenge <<>> But I better wait to tell you tomorrow, so I can have my details all set.

Watch the right side of my blog for information on Blog Challenges, etc. I have to find a way to make it easy for everyone to find the info quickly.

I better get the freebie posted, dh is almost home, lol.

Today I have a 2 photo Simple Stacks Template for you.

This one was one I started with part of my DXD Mega Kit Contribution for August, the title is on a decorated tag (that's why it looks funny), so be on the lookout for that soon, lol.

Download it here

Thanks again for visiting!

Happy Scrapping,

MaryAnne

ps, just made it he's home

running now, lol

Lemonade anyone? Or another freebie?!

2008-07-21T15:55:00.003-04:00

Hi everyone,

I've heard it a million times "When life gives you lemons, make lemonade." It's such a simple premise, but a great outlook on life don't you think?!

Recently I was attempting to create some digital kits for a very large non profit 2 of my 3 daughters are currently part of and all (12) of their cousins on my sisters side of the family have been apart of or are currently part of. I've had leaders and other member beg me to make them kits too! Unfortunately today I received the answer NO.

So although I can make them for myself, do layouts for my children, nieces and nephews as gifts, I can't do them for everyone who's begging me, because the organization will not grant a license for any other scrapbook designer other than the 2 paper only companies that currently have been granted a license. Oh and I was going to give them % of my sales of the product indefinately for the national, state and local groups as well. Too Sad.

So, I must be destined to make Simple Stacks and the ability to create personalize 4x6 scrapbooks from just a plain old standard 4x6 photo album a huge success! After all it's what I LOVE to do!

That said, I have to tell everyone thank you for all your nice comments!!

I just have to answer a couple today, so if you'll just indulge me...

Here's the 1st comment:

Thank You for your comment Jessica! I am so happy you have found Simple Stacks! And more than anything I am so excited for you to begin.

I've been scrapping for my daughters for a very long time now. I've found that creating these "Yearbooks" some of the most rewarding times I've spent scrapping and they are a whole lot easier than completing those pre printed baby books!

I'd LOVE to see your layouts.

There are a few ways you can share them.

After completing your layout save a copy to print and/or to re-edit (if you save these, I do since I always find spelling errors after printing). Duplicate your layout in your graphics program, so you don't work on your original. In PSP just press Shift + D, in Photoshop Elements 3 you right click then click duplicate. All the graphic's programs have that ability somewhere. Resize your duplicate layout to 72 dpi and 600x600 pixels. This size will fit in most emails, galleries etc.

You can email me your layout,

place them in your own gallery at DXD or any other gallery then email me the link so I can go look for myself,

you can put them on Photobucket, Flicker etc then email me the link,

or you can leave the link in with your comments.

Whatever is easiest for you.

This information is good for anyone wanting to share your layout! And you never know, if I have your email address' you just might find a special goody in your inbox from me. BTW - I never share emails. Just thought I'd let you know, incase anyone doesn't want to send stuff because they don't like junk email.

Here's another comment:

You're right ~hj we live in Michigan! and my dd's loved those stones!

My mom recently wanted me to read a book. I'm a slow reader and it was almost impossible to read the thing with the kids, the house, scrapping, etc. My dh found me trying to read it several times and asked "Do you really want to read that?" He really doesn't believe in "self help" or inspirational stuff, lol. At the time I said "Well no, not really. It's not my favorite type of book. But mom told me to read it. So I am." I've always done what my mom told me to do, no joke, even as a teenager, lol.

I have to say I'm really glad I did. One of the messages I got from the book is to do what I love. Problems, ie money, stress, etc. will take care of itself. I thought that was a good idea. Last year problems were everywhere and I was stressed all the time. So here I am taking more steps to do what I'm here to do, lol.

A while ago, maybe a week or so, I had a Blog Challenge 4 posted ~ I think it was 4 lol. Anyway I asked for everyone to submit a Simple Stacks Layout for publication. I had one person email with questions about where to submit a layout to for publication. Here's the post again, in case you missed it:

Anyway, my blog challenge 4 for today is to create a Simple Stacks Layout and submit it for publication! Lets show everyone that you can do a beautiful and functional scrapbook that you don't have to spend a fortune to purchase a special sized album, or so big it costs a fortune to print!!
Here are the details:
Use any Simple Stacks Template (purchased or a freebie)
Use any scrapbook kit (purchase, own designs, or a freebie. Digi Free has some great designs if you haven't found them yet.)
Submit the layout to any magazine, printed or online, with credits
Email me from July 15th to July 20th, 2008, a link or copied documentation that you submitted the layout using a Simple Stacks Template, include your full name and the Simple Stacks - Mini set you'd like.
This challenge is open to all scrappers, designers, ct's, etc.
Everyone who submits a Simple Stacks layout for publication, providing me with a link or copied documentation (so I can find out if any ever get published, lol. My own obsession, lol.) will recieve their choice of a Simple Stacks - Mini set. My Simple Stacks - Mini sets contain 4 Simple Stacks templates that will be on sale for just 98cents a set in the Digi By Design Mall during our Mid Month Madness Sale July 15th-20th, 2008. Since I will have to wait until the Simple Stacks - Mini sets are on sale this challenge will run from today until July 20th, 2008. I'd love to see everyones layouts!!

Well I put the line email me from july 15th to july 20th, 2008.... But I didn't intend for that Blog Challenge to be completed by those dates.

I just needed a way for everyone to select a prize, lol.

I know that submissions for magazines can take a while, therefore this Blog Challenge will run until.... 2009!

I really really want to show everyone Simple Stacks is one of the easiest, most enjoyable and cost effective way to scrap, lol.

Everyone who completes my Blog Challenge 4 by January 1st, 2009 will receive their choice of a)Simple Stacks - Mini sets 1-5 b) their choice of Simple Stacks - Mini sets in development or c) an even more fantastic prize that I haven't thought of yet, lol.

Help me show everyone a 4x6 standard photo album is a priceless, unique, personalized scrapbook just waiting to be created!

So sorry this post is so long. I'm just long winded today, lol.

Thank you for visiting and sharing some lemonade with me on this hot July day. It rained again so when am I ever going to be able to mow my lawn again?!

I have a special little Simple Stacks Template just for you!

Download it here

Thanks again,

Happy Scrapping,

MaryAnne

some yearbook layouts done!! :)

2008-07-20T10:23:00.002-04:00

Hi everyone,

Well I was busy for more of yesterday, but I didn't work on my mk contribution :( (I have to find the time and inspiration to finish it!!) However I did create 4 more yearbook layouts for Tyra!! Now I only have 16 left to finish her 2006-2007 book, lol.

I used Simple Stacks Templates to do these, but I only kept track of the last one.

Here are the layouts

I used lots of papers and elements from shabby princess, the You are so beautiful freebie created by Doreen Stolz and other designers.

Now the one I did this morning. It has space for 5 photos! I created the Simple Stacks Template and got right to work. I created the paper and spiders. I altered shabby princess' ribbon and book plate to finish it.

Hope you like the Simple Stacks Template for this one, because that's the freebie I have for you!

Download it here if you like it

Well I do need to do some work now,

Happy Scrapping,

MaryAnne

Another try

2008-07-19T09:47:00.004-04:00

Ever do a layout that when you did it you thought "ok, I like that one." Not your best work, but sometime life gets in your way of scrapping. So for the next few days you keep thinking about the layout. Well that's me, lol. Before I completed my layout I was looking for a specific style of paper and elements. I was sure I saw some similar to what I wanted in june. But for now I couldn't find them. So I chose something else. Well I asked my 13yo's opinion of it last night when she wanted to steal my computer to talk on yahoo with her friends and try to create a cute pig. She saw this cow created by Tracey at Aussie Srappers (sorry I can't find the original freebie to post),and she hoped there was a pig. But no luck, so she was on to create one inspired by Tracey's style. This is where she stopped.So back to my layout, her only comment was it looked like I was brand new at scrapping, lol. Ok I'm not raising a scrap critic! lol. Well I guess I am. This one's an artsy kinda girl. She always has an opinion on colors, shapes, etc. So I gave her my computer and went to bed. This morning, I got back to my layout and put this one together.

or this one (kinda looked unfinished on the right side)

I used DMK DesignsSummer Party kit bracket quick pages and a paper. Better? I'll have to wait to ask her, lol, she's still asleep.
Onward, Thanks for your opinion Jody! You're right I'm sure many scrappers are too busy right now to do many challenges, so I'm going to give this template to everyone as a freebie!
You can download it here
Ok then, gotta finish doing something I'm sure. Oh yeah I have to finish my DXD mega kit contribution for Aug, lol. Off to get to work.
Happy Scrapping,
MaryAnne

Another Simple Stacks Template Freebie and a slide show

2008-07-18T11:31:00.002-04:00

Hi Everyone,

I was playing around this morning with my previews and Simple Stacks Templates and I decided I needed some sort of way to take a look at all the Simple Stacks Templates I have created thus far. All of them, the 10 sets available thru the Digi By Design Store, all my freebies and the blog challenge prizes. So I am in the process of creating a Simple Stacks Template Preview Catalog. Just for fun I created a slide show above using them. I already see some changes I want to make. If anyone has any suggestions, please email me. I'd love to hear your ideas.

Today I have a new Simple Stacks Template Freebie for you! Here's a preview.

Download it here

All for now,

Happy Scrapping,

MaryAnne

Qp's, Yearbook layouts and freebies

2008-07-17T10:31:00.004-04:00

Hi everyone,
Shelli gave me an blog award :)
Thank you Shelli, gotta go find out what to do now, lol. I'm so slow sometimes.

And, Shelli from Me and my s"crap" created this layout using my Simple Stacks Template 031 found in Simple Stacks - Mini set 1 and Watermelon Patch created by Rachael H at DigitalArts-Cafe. What a cutie! She has posted a Quick Page version on her blog to share with everyone. I have to say this is awesome!! Now not only do I get to create layouts using my own stuff, I can collect other peoples creation to use in my yearbooks too!! Thanks Shelli and Rachael H!

Speaking of yearbooks, I created a new layout for Jessica's 2006 yearbook this morning. Take a look.
I called it Santa Hugs, because this was the first year I remembered she wasn't afraid of Santa, lol. The story's in the journaling. I used papers and elements from my Merry & Brite Kit and Simple Stacks Template 087 (keep an eye out for the template on my blog soon).
You can download the Quick Page Here
Time to create another layout and maybe find some papers and elements....
ttyl
Happy Scrapping,
MaryAnne

After I created a new Simple Stacks Template, I played some more today with the girls yearbooks. Here's the template I made. When I was creating the layout I was lucky to find a little bracket quick page freebie here created by Karla M, that I resized to fit my layout, Summer Citrus Paper Pack freebie here created by Simply Sweet and Beach Blast element freebie here created by Marshmallow Scraps. Thanks for the freebies they are awesome!I just love how it looks with my dd's beach photo! Hmm.. Seems I like the bright colors today. As you can see you can use freebie, kits etc that are created for 12x12 kits, you just have to alter them to fit into the Simple Stacks Templates. I almost never use anything exactly as I've found it, lol.
Now I'm not sure what to do with the Simple Stacks Template. Should I put it on my blog as a freebie, do another Blog Challenge or put it with 5 more for a new mall kit. Hmmm...... Any Suggestions?

bye for now,
maryanne

Did someone say freebies?!

2008-07-16T12:16:00.005-04:00

Hi everyone,

For the last 2 days I spent most of my day on my feet! Well not today, lol.

Today I'm taking it easy and playing for a while before my Digital Scrapping Class tonight.

So the first thing I did is check my email. I found out there are now 121 items available at Digi By Designs Mid Month Madness Sale! And, that some of the designers have some freebies or special things planned this week to celebrate. Manu, from Manu Scraps, has a lottery and this cu freebie:

Visit her blog for all the details

Marcee, from Rose Made Designs, is posting a matching freebie to give away. I can't wait to see what she has come up with!!

Acorn Designs has tons of stuff on sale, including CU stuff all for just $.98 and some freebies!

Then I created a freebie and a new layout for dd's 2006 yearbook.

Here's the layout, it was for Christmas. It's kinda hard to do a christmas layout when it's 85 degrees out and humid, lol. But I did it, so one more layout is done.

You'll notice my finished layout isn't a perfect copy of the Simple Stacks Template I used. That's the best part of these templates. I can start with a plan and adjust it to fit the needs of my layout. I can add or leave out anything that is on the template that I want to.

Here's the Simple Stacks Template I used:

Download it here

Time for lunch and more fun.

Thanks for visiting

Happy Scrapping,

MaryAnne

ps. I just sent out the prizes for my Blog Challenge 5 and Blog Challenge 6 to all of the people who emailed me, left their email in their comments or I could find their email from their comments (lol, didn't think there would be so many ways to find an address). There is still time to participate in my Blog Challenge 4, Blog Challenge 5 and Blog Challenge 6 just click on the challenge to find more information. And P L E A S E leave your email or email me!! I want to make sure everyone gets their prizes! If you have participated and you haven't received your prizes, please email me with info about the challege you participated in and I'll get your prizes to you asap :)

Here's a preview of my Blog Challenge 6 prize and a new layout.

maryanne

Mid Month Madness... and a freebie :)

2008-07-15T06:51:00.003-04:00

Not much time to do anything yesterday or today.

But I did want to tell you about the Mid Month Madness Sale at Digi By Design.

I created 5 sets of 4 Simple Stacks templates on sale for just 98 cents each

Simple Stacks - Mini set 1

Simple Stacks - Mini set 2

Simple Stacks - Mini set 3

Simple Stacks - Mini set 4

Simple Stacks - Mini set 5

These will be on sale for just 5 days - July 15th to July 20th, 2008!

Off to take the girls to Livestock Judging, lol.

Happy Scrapping

MaryAnne

oh when will I have time for a freebie!!!!!!!!!!!!

Just got home from taking more senior photo's and picking the girls up from the Livestock Pavillion and I made a freebie before my dh got home from work, lol.

Here's today's freebie

Download it here

maryanne

A new week...

2008-07-14T09:42:00.003-04:00

Hi everyone,

Wow I can't believe it's mid July already! the 4th was 10 days ago now. This summer is moving at the speed of light. Every summer we try to make it last as long as possible, so we plan our vacation early (that's how we know summer has arrived). Then we take small trips around the area (girls particularly like beaches). We end the summer in a frenzy of fairs and turnover, blah on the turnover, lol. Well true to our summer traditions we drove to Lake Michigan at 1pm in the afternoon, lol. Now some say why so late? I hate sunscreen, so if I don't go to the beach until late afternoon early evening, I don't have to wear it as long, lol. The weather was great. A comfortable 70ish with some clouds and wind. And boy were the waves intense. The girls had a great time standing and being pushed over by the waves, while I filled up a 1GB memory card in just 15 minutes, lol. Good thing I brought more than 1. The evening came way to early, we missed the "sunset by the lighthouse", but it was a nice day anyway. Tyra and Jaime face the waves.

While Jessica runs away from them, lol.

Now I have more photo's to scrap, yeah!!!

Now back to scrapping... I've had someone ask where they might submit layouts and here are a few places I've found: Just Digital Calls has a few listed. Here are some not listed that I found Digital Scrapbooking (a ck magazine), Simple Scrapbooking (a ck magazine), Scrapbooks ETC.

I'll let you know if I find more.

Thanks for all the responses to my Blog Challenges! If you leave your choices in the comments section, please make sure I can get to your email to send you your prizes. There are a few that there are no emails listed with the comments.

I hope to create today, so you might want to check back this evening, but first I must do my chores. It's time for groceries, dishes, laundry......

Happy Scrapping,

MaryAnne

Question for you and some new stuff...

2008-07-13T10:34:00.002-04:00

Hi everyone,
I was creating the prize for my Blog Challenge 5 this morning. (here's a sneak preview)

Anyway, I began wondering how many photo's you all like in your Simple Stacks Templates?

My 4x6 scrapbook are specifically "Yearbooks" for my daughters. I create one (or two for jessica's first 3 years, lol) 4x6 scrapbook that holds 60 photo's or a cover, 29 8x6 layouts and a closing page. I've always varied the number of photo's per layout, depending on the event or type of page I was scrapping. Birthdays always need multiple photo's, lol. Special pages that show personalities sometimes can only have 1 photo with some journaling. So I have a Blog Challenge 6 for you, this is another real easy one, lol. Tell me how many photo's you like in your Simple Stacks. Your choices are: a. 1 photo b. 2-3 photo's c. 4-5 photo's d. 6+ photo's

You can leave your choice, along with your email in the comments section of the blog or email me your choice, with your full name and which challenge you are participating in.

I created another Simple Stacks Template Freebie for you, just for visiting my blog today. I didn't have time to create a layout, I need to go through my list and figure out what layouts my daughters yearbooks need, otherwise I'll fill this years books with vacation photo's, lol. Anyway, here's a preview:

You can download it here.

Time to mow the lawn. (it's about 3 feet high now, lol)

Happy Scrapping,

MaryAnne

I love creating!

2008-07-12T17:08:00.006-04:00

Hi everyone,

Thanks for sharing your layouts using Simple Stacks with me! They are awesome!! I just love seeing them. This morning my dh was using my computer so I picked up one of the many scrapbook magazines I subscribe to. It was nice to take a moment to read a bit while looking at all the great layouts. But you know what I noticed?! This shouldn't be a surprise to me by now.

most of the layouts were 12x12
most of the layouts had almost no journaling

That really makes me sad. The journaling is some of the best part of a layout!! IMHO. I've looked for Brag Book ideas that fit my 4x6 scrapbook format. But they just aren't in the magazines! They publish all sort of sized books 3x3, 6x6, tags, 81/2x11, 12x12, etc. But no 4x6's! Well I've been looking for a new blog challenge and although not many actually do the challenges, I think everyone is so busy collecting they forget to use stuff, lol.

Anyway, my blog challenge 4 for today is to create a Simple Stacks Layout and submit it for publication! Lets show everyone that you can do a beautiful and functional scrapbook that you don't have to spend a fortune to purchase a special sized album, or so big it costs a fortune to print!!

Here are the details:

Use any Simple Stacks Template (purchased or a freebie)
Use any scrapbook kit (purchase, own designs, or a freebie. Digi Free has some great designs if you haven't found them yet.)
Submit the layout to any magazine, printed or online, with credits
Email me from July 15th to July 20th, 2008, a link or copied documentation that you submitted the layout using a Simple Stacks Template, include your full name and the Simple Stacks - Mini set you'd like.
This challenge is open to all scrappers, designers, ct's, etc.

Everyone who submits a Simple Stacks layout for publication, providing me with a link or copied documentation (so I can find out if any ever get published, lol. My own obsession, lol.) will recieve their choice of a Simple Stacks - Mini set. My Simple Stacks - Mini sets contain 4 Simple Stacks templates that will be on sale for just 98cents a set in the Digi By Design Mall during our Mid Month Madness Sale July 15th-20th, 2008. Since I will have to wait until the Simple Stacks - Mini sets are on sale this challenge will run from today until July 20th, 2008. I'd love to see everyones layouts!!

I've been very busy lately, taking Senior photo's for my dd and a very dear family friend. I've love to share some with you. The girls have added their pictures to their myspace accounts, asking for their friends to pick their favorites. So I thought I could too, lol. Blog Challenge 5 for today: leave a comment with your email and your favorite photo of each girl or email me the number of your favorite for each girl and I'll send you a special Simple Stack Template. This Blog Challenge will run from today until July 20th, 2008. So here are your choices

3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15

Finally, I've created a few layouts and a freebie for you!!

Here is a layout for my dd#3 created using Simple Stacks Template 080 (included in Simple Stacks - Mini set 5, on sale july 15th - july 20th, 2008)

and here is todays layout created using Simple Stacks Template Freebie 13

Download it Here

FYI - I'm just like most of you. I have little to no extra $ for scrapping supplies. That's why I do so many freebies :)

Enjoy,

Happy Scrapping,

MaryAnne

Bundled Simple Stacks, news and freebie

2008-07-09T18:28:00.002-04:00

Hi Everyone,

First thing I need to say is Happy Birthday Dad!! I can't go see him today, because we are cutting up the big maple, but I'm thinking of him!

I've bundled up my Simple Stacks, beginning today you can purchase all 10 sets in Simple Stacks Bundle 1 Here

This bundle includes 54 8x6 Simple Stacks Templates and 10 4x6 Simple Stacks - Covers to Closures. It's a total of 64 Templates, more than enough to completely fill a standard 4x6 Photo Album. It's priced to sell at just $20.00, that's like getting over 3 sets for free! I do allow the purchased versions of Simple Stacks for professional and personal use.

Over the holiday, my sister and my brother in law invited my family, my parents, her children and grandson to go camping and see fireworks in Algonac at the Pickeral tournament. It was really a trip down memory lane, to take the ferry to Harsens Island and show all the "new" family members the little cabin that my Grandparents rented every summer for as long as I can remember. We really got lucky to find the son of the original owners, "Frankie" was there doing some work. He let us take a look at the cabin and reminise about times we shared with Grandma and Grandpa while they stayed there. To my amazement it was just about as I remembered it! Even the painting of the pair of parrots, done by Frankie's mom Amy, was still hung in the old spot! I created 1 layout so far of our visit. Here's my layout.

Now I need to look through Grandma's photo's to find some old ones too.

I created this layout from my newest Simple Stacks Template Freebie, here:

Download it here

Well I better go help

Happy Scrapping,

MaryAnne

A Simple Stacks layout

2008-07-07T23:14:00.002-04:00

I finished my layout!! Yeah me!

I was working on this layout when the power went out last week.

I love the texture on the papers! I created the layout using Gina Millers free kit "Windchimes" (dated June 29th) and a template from my Simple Stacks set 10

I can't wait to see it printed :)

bye for now,

maryanne

Congratulations Blog Challenge Winners!!

2008-07-07T21:39:00.002-04:00

Hi everyone,

I am so glad life is returning to normal.

Today we went grocery shopping, as we had to pitch 99% of everything from the fridge and freezer because of the power being out for so long. As we were getting ready to shop, another storm hit the area. When the power went out in the store there was an audible disappointing "awww" from the entire store, lol. Glad to say it was only momentary. But just to be safe, I did the shopping and had my dd call home to make sure the power was on before we paid for the food. Now I have one of the cleanest fridges in the county and the emptiest.

So now for my fun stuff.

I was very happy to receive one entry for my Blog Challenge 1

Missy submitted this layout and will receive a free set of my Simple Stacks Templates.

What a cutie!!

Thank you Missy

I received three enteries for my Blog challenge 2

tjmuse submitted this layout

Missy submitted this layout

and LoriJ submitted this layout

It was so much fun to come back from such a trial to find these in my email!

Thank you all for participating.

Each person who submitted a layout for this challenge will recieve this set of Simple Stacks Template Freebies.

I created another freebie for my Blog Challenge 3, but unfortunately no one submitted any layouts for this contest. :( oh well, on to other things.

Now I am off to finish creating a layout for my dd's yearbook.

Happy Scrapping,

MaryAnne

There's no place like home....

2008-07-07T10:14:00.002-04:00

Hi everyone! We have power again!!

All my childhood "trauma" has been replaced by a single most terrifying event.

Mind you I have lived in Michigan all my life, so these events are mild to some that have occured around the world during those years.

When I was growing up it seems nature was always involved in the most traumatising events.

In 4th grade, lighting struck the lumber yard across the street from my school. The sound was deafening and there was no stopping that fire. The yard and building went up in flames right before my eyes.

A few years later, I was visiting my Grandparents on Harsens Island and lighting struck somewhere near the cabin. I awoke screaming! Sound echo's over the water and it was worse than the lumber yard lighting. (at least to a sound asleep child)

With these 2 events, I admit, I hate thunder. For a while when it thundered I was filled with fear so terrifying I was unable to function.

In College I had to learn to let it go, when we had to evacuate a Child Care Center during a thunderstorm and tornado event to keep the kids safe.

Also in college, I was teaching in a preschool when lightening struck the church across the street.

When I had my own children I learned to remain calm so they didn't get upset.

And now today I'm usually ok but on guard during a thunderstorm.

Well on Wednesday July 2nd, I was being lazy, not mowing my lawn as I should but sitting here playing on the computer, finishing up my stuff for my blog challenge when the news began reporting bad thunderstorms were on their way. The news seems to have elevated everything to a urgent status over the last few years, so while I am cautious I don't get alarmed anymore.

So as the storms were moving into Michigan, I kept the tv on and finished my work here.

I began working on a layout, remembering to save it frequently because if I loose power there goes my layout, kwim? Finally the winds kicked up enough to make my power flicker and close my computer. So I didn't restart. I don't want to loose my computer. Power came back, then blinked for about 5 minutes before it was gone for the day. Around 5ish the rain, hail and winds started to come. I called dh and told him not to drive home, the storm is bad enough I couldn't see the apple tree in the middle of my yard. I ran around closing windows, as the wind was changing directions and the windows we can normally leave open, were now allowing rain into the house. The intensity of the storm seemed to lessen, so I though we'd be out of power for a while that night. When I was standing next to my computer and I heard the most spine tingling crackling sound. Immediately I thought of our tree's. I don't know exactly what made me think of it, but I knew something was going to come down. Now at our house we have 3 full grown maples in the front yard, 1 on the north side, 2 smaller ones on the south, 2 in the back yard and an old dying apple in the middle of the back yard. So with so many tree's you never know about a storm. And the last few years tornado's have seemed to be focusing on our area. Our school even made the national news about 3 years ago when a tornado took off a portion of the roof during 9th grade orientation. Anyway, I knew something was coming down and standing near the middle of the house, I wasn't sure which way to move. I made up my mind quickly as I began seeing the 150 year old maple landing at the back of the house just 5 feet from my previous postion. I kinda bounced into the next room. And this was it, this is now the "worst" story for me. Being home alone, kids were at my sisters, I could react naturally without traumatising the children. Called dh told him to just talk. I can never talk when I get upset, I cry.

So now a few days later I can make light of the whole thing. Tree's broke. Wiped out the stroller, lawn mower, fence, yard swing, hammock, spring horse, hose real, electric wires to the garage, trellis, tomato plant, back step, oh yeah and the corner of the house. Lots of work to do. But the humming bird feeders and bbq are a ok. And the cucumber still has a flower, but I don't know it won't be gone soon.

My 17yo's comment at 1am last night was "the pictures don't really do this justice. That tree is just so big back there"

So here are some pictures for you.

No way to let the dog out to the bathroom now, lol.

My Blog Challenge

Thank You to everyone who has participated. I have looked at your layouts they are wonderful!

And I have emailed you your prizes. I will be posting the list of winners tonight (gotta do some work now)

Thanks again,

Sorry so long,

maryanne

offline,in the dark, in michigan

2008-07-03T11:19:00.002-04:00

Hi,
Last night we had a storm in Michigan, that knocked out the power to our whole town and blew down one of our 150 year old maple trees hitting the back of the house. Everyone is okay, but now the dog has to walk out the front door through the wooden fence, climb over the tree just to go to the bathroom. So my mom can not finish her blog challange as of today like she wanted. She will complete the challange, send the prizes, and announce the winners asap, as soon as the power's back on.

So if you haven't had a chance to do the challenge yet, you can still do it, email mom the link, and she won't know anyway.

Tyra (far away from home)

A Simple Stacks layout, news and freebie

2008-07-02T15:39:00.003-04:00

Hi everyone,

I have my first Blog Challenge 1 Prize winner!

Missy posted this layout and submitted her links

This is just adorable!! Thanks for participating Missy.

I just finished creating and packaging the Blog Challenge Prizes!! I'd love to send one to you.

Please submit your links to enter asap.

I should have mowed today, but I was productive instead, lol. I finished Simple Stacks Set 10 today!! Here's a preview.

I played with one of these and can't wait to get to play with the others.

I have no Digital Scrapbook Class tonight, good thing it's going to thunder, lol. So I get to go to Digi By Designs chat at 9pm that will feature our July Mega Kit "Summer Brights".

Today I have a Simple Stacks Quick Page Freebie for you.

Download it Here

It's thundering now, ack! Gotta go. Happy Scrapping, MaryAnne

Blog Challenge, layout and Freebie

2008-07-01T23:43:00.004-04:00

Hi everyone,
I was talking to my dh tonight and I told him about my blog challenges. Now he's supportive, but thinks I spend way too much time on scrapping stuff, lol. His comment about my challenges was that when he saw people say "the first 5 people to respond...." he figures it's a scam.
Well that got me thinking. In everyday life yeah I take that stuff as scams, but in scrapping nope, lol. Am I gullible or what? Anyway, as I assured him this isn't a scam, I really want to see what people do with stuff I make. And I'm willing to give more freebies to reward scrappers who show me what they've made. It's just my way of saying thanks for taking the time.
Therefore, I'm so excited to say I've had 1 person submit links for my blog challenge #2!!
tjmuse created this layout from my Simple Stacks Template Freebie 9 and a "kit in progress" Poppies created by Acorn Designs. Here's a link to her layout in the gallery. I gave it some luv :)
Thanks TJ
I still have 5 spots for Blog Challenge 1, 4 spots for Blog Challenge 2 and Blog Challenge 3 available to all! I worked on about 4 templates this afternoon, now I have to start deciding which will be prizes, which might go into a Simple Stacks Template set 10 or if they will become new Simple Stacks Template Freebies, hmmm......

Wednesday July 2nd the 9pm chat at Digi By Design is featuring our Monthly Mega Kit created by the designers. This months kit is "Summer Brights". It's just beautiful and huge! This kit contains: 80+ papers, 190+ elements and 3 alphas! It's 547 mbs!! It's on sale right now for just $3.99!
Here's a preview.
All the designers also make Quick Pages for the crop, here are some of mine.
I'm not sure which they will be giving away. Stop by the chatroom and say HI!
And now, as for my Simple Stacks Templates. Well I guess this first one will be a new Simple Stacks Template Freebie
Download it here
But these others, I don't know...
Any suggestions?
Well it's only midnight here, I'm going to see if my children are online.
Happy Scrapping,
MaryAnne

Busy, busy day...

2008-07-01T01:46:00.004-04:00

I just have to share.
I went to Eva Kipler's blog and found a desktop calendar freebie called happydance_julydesktop
I finished it with photo's of my dd's on vacation and I just love it!!

I know some say "you can't teach an old dog new tricks", but is there a way to get the old dog to remember her old tricks? Arg! Long story, dd will know what I'm talking about, lol.
dd's are off visiting again. I swear they are nomads in the summer. They only stay in 1 location for a very short time.
Today was not a good day for scrapping, it was spent at an appointment, then shopping (how does a 4 year old keep losing her clothes?) then meeting up with my sister so she could have my girls visit. Then trying to see a movie, no kids go play right? Nope, there wasn't any good movies on. So we went junk shopping - thrift stores. We don't need more junk, just have to look, lol. Finally we rented a movie "The Great Debaters" Very Good Movie.
Finally around 12:30 I decided I wanted to make another template.
Oh and I checked Digi By Design and someone put my newest Simple Stacks - set 9 in the mall (thank you :) ) What perfect timing.
Here's Simple Stacks - set 9

And here is a Simple Stacks Template Freebie for today

Download it here.
I did it a little different, hope you like it.
It is amazing to see 277 people downloaded yesterdays Simple Stacks Template Freebie!!

I would love to see some layouts that someone has created using my Simple Stacks Templates.
So I have 3 blog challenges for those who may be interested.
Blog Challenge 1: The first 5 people who send me links from 2 different galleries to a layout they created using a purchased version of Simple Stack Templates and they allow me to feature their layout on my blog, I will give their choice of one full set of Simple Stacks Templates.
To claim your prize - just email me the links at curthsdigitaldesigns@yahoo.com, include your full name, email address and the name of the Simple Stacks Templates you'd like.

Blog Challenge 2: The first 5 people who send me links from 2 different galleries to a layout they created using a Simple Stacks Template Freebie and they allow me to feature their layout on my blog, I will send them a special surprise bonus of 2 Simple Stacks Template Freebies specially created for this blog challenge.
To claim your prize - just email me the links at curthsdigitaldesigns@yahoo.com, include your full name and email address please.

Blog Challenge #3: Anyone who creates a layout using either my Simple Stacks Templates (purchased version) or Simple Stacks Template Freebies and posts them in Digi By Designs Gallery and 1 other gallery, allow me to feature their layout on my blog. I will send them a special surprise bonus of a Simple Stacks Template Freebie, created especially for this blog challenge.
To claim your prize - just email me the links at curthsdigitaldesigns@yahoo.com, include your full name and email address please.

You can participate in all three Blog Challenges if you'd like. Please have an original layout for each of the blog challenges you'd like to complete.
I have to have an end date for this challenge.
Simple Stacks make creating layouts a breeze and I've been creating freebies and template sets for about a month now, so you have a lot to choose from. So, lets say you must post your layouts and email me your links by Thursday July 3rd 12:00 noon Eastern Standard Time.
I will send out prize links by Thursday July 3rd 10pm Eastern Standard Time.
Anyone interested?
Well time for bed.
Happy Scrapping,
MaryAnne

PS. If my girls visit, find me on yahoo messenger while your gone ok? I still would like to talk to you. Love ya, mom.

Night Everyone.

Vacation, Senior Pictures and more

2008-06-29T17:57:00.004-04:00

Well it's that time, I had to start taking some senior photo's. I've been browsing the web for some idea's and I think I have some that my dd will love. While we were on vacation we found a nice little spot in Big Rapids. The photo's are ok, but I think we both need to keep trying.

Here's the layout I finished for her.

I used my newest Simple Stacks Template Freebie to create this layout

You can download it here

I also finished another vacation layout, it's a bit artsy, but I loved the photo!

I used one of my newest Simple Stacks Templates - set 9

(They'll be in the store soon, but now I have to fix the preview before it does, lol)

I have a great selection of Simple Stack Templates now, I hope everyone enjoys them as much as I do.

Time for dinner,

Happy Scrapping,

MaryAnne

Mosquito’s are horrid, so I stayed in most of the day...

2008-06-28T20:22:00.002-04:00

Hi everyone,

The mosquito's are just nasty here in town. Any time I went outside they swarmed me, so needless to say I didn't go outside very much. I did fix one of the bird feeders I have, the squirrel broke it while we were gone. And I filled the hummingbird feeder, I now have a male and female coming in multiple times a day.

This morning I worked on some of my Digi By Design July Mega Kit Quick Pages, while I was creating another vacation layout. I love how it turned out!

I think it needs a facing page for some journaling, hmmm....

I'm trying to figure out what photo's to include in the girls yearbooks too. There are so many to choose from.

Finally, just for you, I created another Simple Stacks Template Freebie.

Hope you like it.

Download it Here

I haven't had a chance to create a layout with it yet, but I'm sure I will soon.

Anyone have a preference for how long I leave the downloads available?

I've left them available for a long time, because I know I get frustrated when I find a freebie that I love but it's expired. Just wonder what other people think about it.

Well that's all for now,

Happy Scrapping,

MaryAnne

Hello again...

2008-06-27T21:31:00.003-04:00

What a nice vacation!

This vacation was a bit different from any we had before, we stayed in a cabin on a lake. Much nicer bathroom than campgrounds :)

Vacation is nice, but I'm so happy to be home again!! I couldn't wait to see what kind of photo's my new camera takes. Oh yeah, I just couldn't wait any longer. We didn't pick it up until like the 3rd or 4th day, so no first day shots. But I made up for it, lol. I took almost 1000 photo's and filled 3 1gb sd cards and 1/2 filled another sb card. I picked up a Cannon Power Shot S5 IS. It's 8 megapixel and it has a 12x Optic Zoom! I wish I had enough to get a Digital SLR, but they were at least 2x the price. I photo's look awesome on the preview screen, but appear much darker on my monitor. I know my monitor's darkish, so I'll visit the library and look on their monitors.

Anyway, so within 2 hours of being home I had my first 2008 vacation layout complete. Then after a nap and dinner, I completed another layout in 8x6, a template and a quick page.

Here's my first Vacation 2008 layout

Here are 2 close up's
I just loved this photo. I snapped it as Jessie was headed up the slide at the park from about 25 feet away. I couldn't believe how great it looks.
And here is one element I created for the Mega Kit. Previews don't do it justice! The texture is wonderful. It's just on the green background so you can see it. The sun and word art element are saved as a .png file so the background is transparent.I used papers and elements created for the Digi By Designs July 2008 Mega Kit - to be released soon , as well as a new Simple Stacks Template Freebie.
Download it Here
Saturday June 28th is another Super Saturday Saver.
This week you can find Simple Stacks Templates - set 2
and Simple Stacks Templates - set 3 for 50% off! That's just $1.50 for 6 8x6 templates!
Well I have so many idea's floating in my head tonight, I have to get some more stuff done.
Thanks for visiting.
Happy Scrapping,
MaryAnne

Offically it's friday...

2008-06-20T02:17:00.004-04:00

Hi everyone,

Offically it's friday here and that means time for vacation. But I wonder what kind of vacation it can possible be with NO internet, NO computer and NO camera, lol. I'm going to be lost!!!!

Well I really don't know if there's no internet and I'm getting as prepared as I can. I'm bringing books, a sketch pad, pencils... I'll see what I can do to keep myself occupied.

I have something to share with you. Tonight, when I was finishing another template, I checked my email and found a nice little note from someone who has used my Simple Stacks Template to create a layout. It turned out just beautiful! I don't have time to ask if I could post it here, so visit this gallery to view it. Thanks for sharing your layout with me, I love to see them.

Since I will be "out" on Saturday, I want to let you all know I have put 2 kits in Digi By Designs Super Saver Saturday at 50% off.

If you visit on Saturday June 21st 2008, you could pick up My Little Man and Simple Stacks - Covers to Closures set 1

I also have this Simple Stacks Template Freebie available at Digi By Design

I still had no time to scrap, but I created a freebie for everyone

Here's another Simple Stacks Template Freebie.

Download it Here

Time for bed,

night everyone

maryanne

Another day.......

2008-06-19T11:37:00.002-04:00

Hi everyone,

I am so lazy today, lol. My dd was gone to Chicago yesterday, so I had to stay up until 3am to wait for her. My dd#2 did it, but I dozed on the couch after 2 am (dh doesn't believe that's when I can fall asleep, lol). So there I was laying on the couch, dozing and waking up every few minutes "talking to dd#2". Finally dd#1 got home, thanks to a Great friend of mine bringing her home from the school, Thanks Julie! They all went to Chicago with the Choir Teacher to see the play "Wicked". DD loved it! Because 1 dd went to Chicago, I wanted to let the other 2 play, so we went to the mall, browsed the camera's, got slushies, etc. DD#2 kept encouraging me to just buy a camera, lol. She was the last one to use mine, I think she feels guilty and I know she really really really wants one of her own. But I just can't do it. Being a stay at home mom, scrapbooker and kit desinger just means sometimes I don't have the $ to do everything I want. DH goes to work everyday to earn the $ and even though I know I do a lot around here and I work hard everyday there are just some times the "extra" stuff I want has to wait until I have $. I just can't ask my DH for everything. Does that make sense to anyone else?!? Anyway, so we went, I dreamed, then came home to reality. Cleaned the car so we can go on vacation, taught my scrapbook class, but had to leave early (Sorry ladies, I will be back soon), talked to my mom on the phone (I really miss that sometimes) and dd#2 was on my computer all night after we sat down again. So I didn't do any layouts :(

But............ oh I forgot, I printed something like 8 layouts!!!!!!!! They were for all 3 girls, for the past 2 years, so they didn't look like much in the books, but they were so beautiful!!!

Any way... So for today I packaged up a Simple Stacks Template Freebie for you. You'll notice this preview looks a little different from the previous ones, as I didn't get a layout done.

You can find all my Simple Stacks Templates Here

Here is your Simple Stacks Template Freebie for today.

Download it here

I will try to post again tomorrow and if the Cabin has internet, I'll try to post while we're on vacation. I've signed 2 things up for Saturdays Super Saver this week, oh darn and I have to finish the mega kit for July before I leave, lol.

Anyway, sorry to ramble, it just felt like this kind of morning, lol it's noon. But I'm awake now.

Thanks for visiting,

Happy Scrapping,

MaryAnne

New templates and a freebie

2008-06-18T09:20:00.002-04:00

Hi everyone,

running around with the girls today. Were going on vacation at the end of the week and my camera broke :( I can't imagine not being able to take photo's while were gone, I just don't know what to do. We can't afford a new one and most certainly not what I'd like. ok enough pity for myself.

I added another Simple Stacks Template set in the Digi By Design Mall.

Simple Stacks 8

From one of those templates I created another layout for dd#1.

I printed them yesterday afternoon and get to pick them up today, I can't wait to see them.

Finally, I created another Simple Stacks Quick Page Freebie for you.

Download it here

Gotta run,

Have a great day

MaryAnne

A new kit, another layout and a freebie...

2008-06-16T18:12:00.003-04:00

Hi everyone,
I have a brand new kit in the Digi By Design Mall!
This is my first real kit in I don't know how long.
I needed some elements for one of the layouts I created for my dd and the kit just kinda fell together after that.
My Little Man is available Here
Here's a sneak peek:

I used parts of my new kit "My Little Man" and my Simple Stacks Template Freebie.

This layout is from 2 years ago, can't believe the little guy will be 2 in August!
I wanted to share this Simple Stacks Quick Page Freebie with you too. I hope some of you can use it :)
Download it Here
You can find all of my Freebies still available on my blog, just page down, visit a specific title or the archieves.
I have 7 new Simple Stacks Templates in the mall and another freebie there as well.

Happy Scrapping,
maryanne

What a day!!!!! A little Freebie for you

2008-06-16T00:14:00.002-04:00

Hi everyone, hope your Fathers Day was great!

We had a very busy day!

We started with presents for the daddy and birthday girl. I was kinda upset cause my camera is not working!!!!!!!!! I don't know what I'm going to do without it! I used Jaimes, little piece of ****, but I didn't get 1/2 the photo's I usually do and they will look like the original "digital camera" I got. Anyway, we went to dinner and to Best Buy to pick up a HD converter box. I just went to the camera's and drooled, lol. Both my teenagers did too, lol. Then we moved on to fridges. We don't need one, but it was fun to dream.

When we got home we watches Jumper and The Bucket List, both good movies. But the Bucket List made us cry. And Jaime played on the computer talking all night, so no new scraps for me today. Not sure whats in store for tomorrow, so here's another little Simple Stacks Quick Page Freebie for you all.

Download it Here

Night All,

MaryAnne

Happy Fathers Day, here's a quick freebie

2008-06-15T10:17:00.002-04:00

Good Morning and Happy Fathers Day!

I didn't get anything else finished yesterday, since I took so long in the morning, lol.

When I was done creating and deleting email it was 5pm!!

Too much going on to do much today, with a Birthday and Fathers Day all in one day we'll be off going something.

Here's a Simple Stack Freebie for you today

Download it Here

Have a great day

maryanne

Can't believe I'm still sitting here, lol...

2008-06-14T15:56:00.002-04:00

Hi everyone,

I forgot to get my Saturday Super Saver kit listed yesterday before we lost power, so....

I have another Simple Stacks Template Freebie for you instead!

But first, I wanted to let everyone know my Simple Stacks Set 7 (I got a bit mixed up on my numbering for the store) is now available at Digi By Design.I love using these myself, they make my pages so much easier to create. And since I have 3 dd's I have a lot of pages to finish.

I woke up this morning, wanting to finish a layout for my dd#1 and I was browsing through the April/May 08 edition of Digital Scrapbooking for some ideas. I found a layout on pg 18 that had a curved portion of paper and stitching. I don't usually do many curved papers and I haven't tried to do curved stitching, so I thought I'd give it a try. Since my Yearbook scrapbooks are 4x6 I had to change things a bit. So I was fiddling with my layout and I had to create some elements too.

Here's the layout I ended up with

And since I lost power, here's the Simple Stacks Template Freebie I created while working on my layout.

Download it Here

Well it's 4pm, I need to eat. But since I didn't eat yet, should it be breakfast, lunch or dinner? lol. Scrapping is so addictive!

Happy Scrapping,

MaryAnne

Special Thanks and a freebie...

2008-06-13T16:03:00.002-04:00

Hi everyone,

I ran around with my girls yesterday, so I didn't get any layouts done. Then when we got home there was a conspiricy to keep me from my computer, lol. Not really a friend of the girls came over and they sat at the computer talking.

Anyway I am happy to say I finished another layout today! That makes about 8 in the last 10 days for me. I will really be happy when I finish the 2006-2007 books. In just 2 days I will officially be 2 years behind in my dd#1's books :(

Now all I need to do if find the photo disks, lol.

I really love how this one of my dd#3 came out.

I was "laid up" last summer with back issues, so my sister got to spend almost the whole summer with my girls while I waited for surgery. On Jessica's birthday she took Jess to the mall and had her hair and make-up done at "Libby Lou's" (while I don't generally allow make up on my young girls, the effect was beautiful). She bought her a new "princess" dress, sparkly shoes, jewelry, etc. then took her to get her photo taken. The pictures are so adorable and beautiful. (She even paid for the copywrite, so I could use the photo's in my scrapbooks).

Here's the layout I created with 1 of the pictures.

When we arrived at my sisters (I got a shot at the dr's that afternoon so I could travel to see my dd's), we were met by the most beautiful princess, so very happy and excited to see us.

Today's freebie is the Quick Page I created while creating the layout using one of my Simple Stack Templates

You can download it here

Only 1 week before vacation, I want to finish more layouts before we leave, so if you like the freebies I'm posting keep an eye out for new ones.

Tomorrow is Super Saver Saturday

hmmm.... gotta think about what to add this week.

Oops! Thunder, gotta go.

Happy Scrapping,

Maryanne

3 Freebies and some daily news...

2008-06-11T09:10:00.004-04:00

Hi everyone,

I hope everyone is enjoying my new freebies as much as I am!!

It's so nice to be able to get some of my scrapping done and still have time to design new items and freebies.

Remember, if you're new to the site or don't know how I operate yet, I've left almost all my "Freebies" on esnips, they are still availble to download at this time.

I've finished a couple of layouts from 2007, I'd better write up my "outline" to see what kind of layouts my dd's yearbooks need, so I can be sure to include the important stuff.

Here's a little page for my dd #3

She's so cute and here sister Jaime took the photo, she's really enjoying photography these days.

Although I still get about 300 strange face shots from her a week.

Here's a couple she took.

And, I've finished 2 more Simple Stacks Template Sets!!

First I have Simple Stacks - Covers to Closures set 1

Here's a single template preview:

Included in this set of templates are 10 4x6 templates, perfect for creating cover pages and final pages in any STANDARD size 4x6 photo album.

I also have Simple Stacks set 5

So much for my news, today's freebies are:

A Simple Stacks Template Freebie #3 available Here

A Simple Stacks Quick Page Freebie available Here

(btw the colors on this page are for FFA, but you can use the quick page in a lot of other ways)

And Finally a Simple Stacks Quick Page Element Freebie

I made this element for one of Jessica's layout, so I thought I'd share with you, It's available here.

Well now I need to work on my July Team kit, MMM stuff, Digital Scrapbooking Class stuff and more layouts, so....

Happy Scrapping,

MaryAnne

Another Simple Stacks Quickpage Freebie and news

2008-06-09T09:31:00.008-04:00

Good morning!

I am so glad I got busy yesterday morning, we lost power at 4ish and it wasn't scheduled to come back on until 4pm on June 10th! I just couldn't imagine what in the world we'd do with no power for 2 days, ahhhhh! The girls just got home from the world pork expo in Iowa and Jaime was beside herself with no internet for another night, lol.
Anyway, I did finish more layouts!! Yeah!!

I created today's freebie from a template in my Simple Stack Set 4

and now I have all 4 Simple Stacks sets available.

Heres Simple Stacks - set 3

Heres Simple Stacks - set 2 Heres Simple Stacks - set 1

Digi By Design News

This weeks Tea for Tuesday Chat will feature the kit Cool Azul. It will be 50% off Tuesday and Wednesday only - just $3.25!
It has 12 background papers, over 40 elements and 2 alphas!This is the perfect kit for all of those beach layouts - but it is versatile enough for other pages, too!

You can find it here
If you attend the chat - June 10th - at 2 PM ET, you will receive this attendance gift. You need to be present during the first 30 minutes of the chat to receive the unzipping password.If you submit a layout for the chat challenge, you will earn this posting gift. You do not have to attend the chat to participate in the challenge. You can use the featured kit for your layout - and it's such a great deal, why not? Chat details can be found here
Todays Simple Stacks Quick Page Freebie

Download it Here

Today's a party, so I'm not sure if I can work much, but I hope to be able fininsh another layout or 2 and create another set of templates. (crossing my fingers) (edited to add: I've finished another Simple Stacks. Simple Stacks - Covers to Closures, another template freebie and quick page. Stop by tomorrow and I'll try to have them posted) Here's a sneak peak.....

My Simple Stacks - Covers and Closures Template Freebie in Now Available.

You can find it Here

Happy Scrapping,

MaryAnne

Another layout and Another FREEBIE

2008-06-08T11:33:00.002-04:00

This is just what I needed to start scrapping again!

I finished this FFA layout of my dd

and now I have a total of 4 Simple Stacks Sets

Here's Simple Stack Set 4

That's enough to do a whole 4x6 Scrapbook!

I think the next set I'll do will be covers and back pages.

They have to be a single 4x6 layouts.

Today I have another Simple Stacks Template Freebie for you.

Download it Here

Happy Scrapping,

MaryAnne

More Inspirations and a FREEBIE

2008-06-07T09:19:00.004-04:00

Thank you so much for the nice comments
I appreciate them more than you can know!

I'm so pleased to say I finished another layout and I was
inspired to create another kit and FREEBIE!
I've sent 2 more kits into the mall, I hope they will go in
sometime over the weekend, but while I'm waiting I
want to keep my momentum going (you never know
when it will just go away) so I've added my
Simple Stacks - set 1 to Digi By Designs Super Saver Saturday

for 50% off!

BTW I do allow personal and commercial use for the Simple Stack sets.

My first Simple Stacks Template Freebie and
Simple Stacks Quick Page Freebie 1 are also still available.
(just click the names)
I hope to inspire everyone to give these a try!
I know you'll just love them!!

And now..................................
First a share.
My two oldest dd's have been elected as Officiers in FFA
for the 2008-2009 school year. They are so excited.
Although we do not actually live on a farm, they've seen
the opportunities FFA offers to the kids who join and
they are excited to follow in the footsteps of their cousins!

I created this yearbook page for Jaime,
who was elected Sentinel.
This is the absolutely perfect position for her,
she is such a social butterfly!!
And I created this Simple Stacks Quick Page Freebie 2
to share with you all. Download it Here

Thanks for visiting,
See you tomorrow?! (if I can get anything done today, lol)
Happy Scrapping,
MaryAnne

I'm just so excited and I have another Freebie

2008-06-06T11:19:00.004-04:00

OMG! I can't believe I actually finished another layout and a freebie!

Inspiration was just swirling in my head all night long.

I created a Quick Page from my new

Simple Stacks Templates this morning.

These scrapbook are just so easy to use,

I can finish whole albums in just a few days.

Today's freebie is a Simple Stack Quick Page.

Download it Here

Created from yesterdays Simple Stack Template

(still available, go to the next post)

Since these templates make a double 4x6 scrap layout, I can use

any STANDARD 4X6 Photo Album to make my scrapbook!

Want to see more? Visit my store

Happy Scrapping,

MaryAnne

Exciting news and a freebie

2008-06-06T00:08:00.003-04:00

I'm on a roll again!

Hopefully this is just the start of a great wave of inspiration, it's been so long....

Anyway, I am about 2 years "behind" on my Yearbook scrapbooks for my girls now. So I really need to start doing those again, so I can get caught up before next years graduation. That got me looking for a way to mesh my "scrapper need" with my "designers spirit".

I think I've found the perfect solution!

I am now making templates for my daughters yearbooks.

When I started scrapping, I wanted books that my children could pick up, hold and enjoy all by themselves, so I began simply creating a "Yearbook" scrapbook using a standard 4x6 photo album. Creating this sized scrapbook has many many benefits and only a few limitations.

Some of the benefits include:

The cost of printing layouts is very affordable, between .09 cents and .20 cents each.
Finding a standard 4x6 photo album was as easy as visiting my local Walmart
Standard 4x6 photo albums once came with my prints, but now only cost about $1.00 for one that holds 24-36 prints
My children, even the 2 year olds, could pick up a scrapbook and enjoy them

The limitations:

Designers don't make "4x6" portrait style Quick Pages
It's hard to "scale down" 12x12 ideas for pages

So now after almost 17 years of scrapping, I'm going to try to remove the limitations!!

I'm creating "Simple Stacks"

These are 8x6 templates to create double page 4x6 scrapbook layouts. All you have to do is Create > Crop > Print and you'll have an incredible scrapbooks that you can afford to give as gifts, print multiple copies, etc. They make excellent Brag books, Yearbooks, Specialty Albums and more. And, unlike what is currently available, finding a "scrapbook" is now as easy as a visit to a discount store for a STANDARD SIZE 4x6 photo album. Average cost for this little gem is about $5.00!

I've already added my first set of 6 Simple Stacks to my store at Digi By Design and I'll be adding more as soon as I finish them. Take a look.

Finally, I really would love for more people to try these out!! I just know you'll fall in love, so I've created one just for you to try and I've already used it to make my first layout in almost a year! OMG!

Download it Here

Let me know what you think and watch for more excitement to come!!

Happy Scrapping,

MaryAnne

GIMP TUT - Resizing a layout to print

2008-05-28T11:58:00.002-04:00

Resizing your 12x12 layout to an 8x8,
to print as an 8x10 for Standard Photo Printing Services

Open your layout in GIMP - your layout will appear as a 12x12 I believe
On the Image, on the toolbar on the top of your layout - go to Image>Print Size (Fig. 1 below)
Fig. 1:

This opens a Print Size Dialog box (fig. 2)
fig. 2
Change the Width and Height to 8 inches - If the width and height are linked you will only need to change 1 then tab and the other will change (fig. 3)
fig. 3
Click OK
Now your layout will be 8x8 (I've pulled my image window just a bit larger than my canvas
size to show the 8x8 measurements) (fig. 4)
fig.4
On the layout image window, go to Image>Canvas Size (fig. 5)
fig. 5:
This opens the Set Image Canvas Size Dialog box (fig. 6)
fig. 6:
Make sure the width and Height are NOT linked.
Change the Height to 10 inches, make sure there are no numbers in the Offset.
Click Resize
You will now have your 8x8 layout on an 8x10 canvas (fig. 7)
fig. 7:
Notice on the bottom you can see a checkered pattern.
This is the portion you will need to trim off to make the printed layout an 8x8.
(I have a trimmer and a rotary cutter with a straight edge that I can bring down for you to use if you need it)
This is on a transparent background, therefore when you print nothing will be printed
on the checkered area.
If you'd like, you can add text on the checkered area that says
"8x8 layout printed as an 8x10" (fig. 8)
fig. 8:
(I added a white layout just to show you this preview so the text will show up on the screen)
This just lets the printer know that you know the layout is 8x8 and that you want it printed on
an 8x10, so they will not remove any of your layout by zooming in to fill the canvas.
Save as usual
For Printing - Save as a jpeg to take to a commercial printer (walmart, meijers, etc.)

Hope this helps. If it doesn't or you need other help, I can meet you any day or time except Thursday at 11-1.
can't wait to see how it looks
maryanne

Something new

2008-04-02T02:39:00.002-04:00

I've been invited to my local library to teach Digital Scrapbooking!
I can't wait to get started. I've spent a few months creating a curriculum, finding programs, gathering sites, etc. And tomorrow is the big day!
First class!!
Now that I'm playing again, I need to make some new kits, or design an action or script, oh and I can't forget the freebies!!
Well it's late, see you soon,
maryanne

finding mojo...

2007-11-09T10:47:00.000-05:00

Anyone know where my mojo went?

Seriously, I'm just so out of it right now. I think it comes from sleeping again, lol. For so long I didn't sleep well and I tried everything to get some sleep. So after my surgery I was in my room at 3am with my roommate, who had her hip replaced and was in agony. There was way too much light, consquently I asked if there was anything they could give me to help me sleep. Even on heavy pain medication after back surgury, I wasn't going to sleep, lol. The doctor gave me some meds and I actually slept for 4 hours! When I was released I asked if I could get a script, explaining how little I've slept in the last 6-8 years and everything I've tried to help it. So the Dr. gave me the script and I've kept taking it. It really does help me sleep. I'm actually getting about 6-7 hours of sleep a night, but I found it affects my ability to be creative, lol. My dh doesn't believe me when I say: there is absoultely NOTHING in my head! lol. When I try to create kits, quick pages, etc nothing is happening! So I'm trying a different approach. I'm going back to doing layouts for my dd's. Maybe while I'm creating the layouts, I'll need to create paper or elements for them and that will lead to freebies or kits, lol. It can't hurt anyway, I'm so far behind, lol.

So today I did 2 cover layouts for my dd's "yearbook".

I can't decide which one I like best

My daughter took this photo herself (I'm so proud of her!!)

I used papers and elements from Digi By Design's monthly team kit Tickets Pleaseas well as a few other papers and elements (see full description here)

Thanks for stopping by

maryanne

ps. I just got an idea for a freebie, if you get a chance check back in a bit. I'll see if I can pull it together.

2007-11-04T10:35:00.000-05:00

I've added one of my favorite winter kits to my store

This kit contains elements for a huge list of winter sports and activities,
including: ice skating, cross country skiing, down hill skiing, speed skiing,
speed skating, snowmobiling, sledding, snowshoeing, snowboarding,
figure skating, curling, down hill racing, playing in the snow and more.It contains 28 12x12 papers, creative word art, charms, ribbons,license plates and a make your own license plate collection, brads,eyelets, closures and prongs, staples, fibers, word washers and a
great selection of "snow sport" based page elements.
All items created at 300 dpi.

All at an introductory price of just $2.50 for a limited time!
Get Winter Sports - Common to Xtreme Here

AND

I finally had a chance to play with this kit this weekend
and I created the following 2 Quick Pages

Download QP #1 Here

Download QP #2 Here

Other news

I have all of my kits, scripts and elements 30% off today.
This includes commercial use items like paper maker overlays,
Paint Shop Pro scripts, as well as all my scrapbooking
kits not already on sale.
To take advantage just visit my part of the Digi By Design Store

happy scrapping,
maryanne

Hello

2007-11-01T11:11:00.000-04:00

Hi everyone!

I hope you all had a great halloween! Here in Michigan, it was cold and then began to rain, right in the middle of Trick or Treating! No Surprise there. We could have 60-70 degree temps all week and it would still be cruddy and nasty on Halloween! lol.

Anyway, I've just been in a huge slump and I can't seem to crawl out of it! So today I'm approaching it in a slightly different way.

I used 2 of my kits to create a layout for my dd and saved it as a QP to share. Actually there are 2.

Here's Jessica in her halloween costume.

I liked the simple look of this first one

Get this QP Here

Journaling reads:
I really wanted some "good" photo's of you in
your halloween costume. But in Michigan
it's impossible to plan for this occasion.
The weather rarely cooperates!
This year was no different. As we left the house,
it was still light enough for a photo, thanks to the change
in daylight savings. But that still wasn't good enough. It was too
cold to go out without your coat and mitten. To top it off, about
30 minutes after we started, it started to rain.
Can't take pictures in the rain. So this was my best shot. Here you are
as your favorite character "Cinderella". Hope you remember
your halloweeens fondly, despite the weather.
~ I Love You,
Mom

but I kept thinking it needed something.

Get this QP Here

Since I love to mix kits (I'm never happy with just one) I ended up using paper and a new element from my Witches Den kit and a graphic element from my Trick or Treats kit.

In case your wondering, these kits are not in the store right now. They were part of the Digi by Designs Mid Month Madness, I wanted to add more to them and put them back in the store as full kits, but my creativity has failed me. If anyone is really interested it getting one or both, just let me know by emailing me at curthsdigitaldesigns@yahoo.com and I'll see what I can do.

TICKETS PLEASE!

is the newest Mega Kit from Digi By Design

Tickets Please! Whether your little one is a shining movie star or you have recently made a trip to the movies this kit is sure to please. Packed full with popcorn, stars, and fame it is sure to be a delight! 460 Mb 67 papers 219 elements. It's available, for a limited time, at an introductory price of just $3.99! I had a chance to play with a portion of this kit already, it's awesome!!

be sure to keep a look out at this forum

for some incredible freebies everyday!

Enjoy,

MaryAnne

Super Saturday Saver and more...

2007-10-20T06:25:00.000-04:00

Today at Digi by Design is

Super Saver Saturday

and the fall madness has continued!

Today there are a total of 51

fall and Halloween products available

for 50% off!

Here's a preview of what I have available.

Button Pack 3

Button Pack 4 Feels Like Fall

Feels Like FAll Add-onFeels Like Fall Halloween Feels Like Fall Halloween-Quick Pages Feels Like Fall Halloween Extras Natural Inspirations Collection
Thanks for visiting!

Here's a little coordinating Freebie for you

You can download it Here

Happy Scrapping,

maryanne

It's FRIDAY!!

2007-10-19T14:51:00.001-04:00

Thanks for making this week so much fun!

I used my Trick or Treats kit

to create this little freebie for you.

Sorry Download expired

Thanks again,

maryanne

Happy Thursday!

2007-10-18T10:12:00.000-04:00

I hope you've enjoyed the freebies so far!

Today I have some stickers/word art

samples that coordinate with my

Witches Den kit, that's part of

Digi by Designs Mid Month Madness.

Here's what I came up with.

Sorry Download Expired

If you haven't seen the huge list yet go here.

There are 157 kits, alpha's, elements,

etc that are being offered for just .98 cents!

There are even commercial use products

available, like my Multiple Button Script Special.

This script was written for Paint Shop Pro (written in PSP 9)

and will create 4 styles of buttons with just a few

clicks. These buttons can be used for just

about anything, commercial use is permitted!

Do you love freebies?

Don't forget to visit the

Digi by Design Blog Party.

and

Have you seen the Spooktacular Quick Pages

in the forums? Be sure to check those out too!

Here's a link to the forum

Today's is one of mine

These Quick Pages were created by the

designers of Digi by Design using our

October Mega Kit

Spooktacular

This kit includes over 90 papers, 200 elements and

4 alphas by 13 designers. 500 Mb of goodies.

I have another freebie idea in my head this morning,

so I just might be able to squeak out a second

one today (we'll see if the scrapping gods

and my 4 year old smile on me today).

Have a great day,

maryanne

Today...

2007-10-17T12:10:00.000-04:00

We lost power very early in the morning,

and they didn't get it fixed in time for

my girls to go to school, so we're having

a FREE DAY!!!

I don't have much time, but I did get this

little freebie together for you!

Sorry download expired

If you didn't already know, some

of the Digi by Designers are having a

Blog Party, read all about it here and

you can pick up some great and generous

Freebies (hurry I don't know when they expire).

Also, we've only got 3 days left in the

Digi by Design's Mid Month Madness.

Don't miss your chance to snag up to 157

awesome mini kits, alphas, even some

commercial use products for just .98 cents each!!

New Product and Freebie

2007-10-16T09:31:00.000-04:00

Good Morning,

I'm so excited to have some new product in the

Digi by Design Mall for the Mid Month Madness.

Here are a few that I have available this week,

October 15-20th, 2007 for just .98 cents!

And I created a special alpha to coordinate

with the Witches Den Kit just for you!

Sorry Download Expired

Have a great day,

MaryAnne

Digi by Designs Blog Party

2007-10-15T12:06:00.000-04:00

Today is the start of the Digi by Design's Blog Party freebie madness!

Unfortunately I've been so busy trying to get

my life back in order I didn't have the energy to

participate. But, I did make a few alpha's to give away!

I'll post one or more each day. Here's the first one:

Sorry Download Expired

This week is a busy one at Digi by Design

I have 9 new items in for this event.

I'll post previews in a bit, but for now you can view

them here:

Trick or Treats
Witches Den
Witches Den Alpha
Witches Den Alpha 2

Multiple button Script Special

- this is a Paint Shop Pro Script that is ok for Commercial Use

There are a total of 157 items listed for this Special Event

Now thru Sunday you can get cool coordinating mini kits like these

off these blog listed below:
http://rosemadedesigns.blogspot.com/
http://acorn-designs.blogspot.com/
http://mermaidshaven.blogspot.com/
http://manu-scraps.blogspot.com/
http://sasboksdigidesigns.blogspot.com/
http://florescentjellybeans.blogspot.com/http://lilbitsd-zynz.blogspot.com/http://heidigdigiscraps.blogspot.com/

Have a great week,

MaryAnne

I'm back!

2007-09-24T12:20:00.000-04:00

Sorry I've been gone for so long, we had a really really bad summer

and it seems to want to creep into my fall!

I'll be so happy when things settle down again.

In the meantime, I've begun creating kits, elements and

best of all FREEBIES again!

I used my "Feels Like Fall" kit papers

and my "Feels Like Fall Add-on" papers

along with my newest button script for Paint Shop Pro

to create a whole lot of buttons!

This was too big to send it through as one zip

so I put it in DigibyDesigns Freebies section.

Just go here to pick it up.

Thanks for visiting,

see you soon.

MaryAnne

Happy Independence Day....

2007-07-04T18:24:00.000-04:00

Happy Independence Day!!

I really love holidays where we have
NO PLANS!!
The turn out to be such fun days.
We saw some awesome fireworks last
night, so my kids enjoyed sleeping
in late or falling back to sleep.
While they were sleeping I've been
working on freebies that I promised
last week and testing some
Paint Shop Pro Scripts.

Today is the 2nd day of
Digi by Designs
Independence Day Sale

in my portion of the store you can save
30% off (including commercial use items)
Visit the Store

This week I have a new

Paint Shop Pro Script in the mall.
Basic Elements 1
This script uses papers, colors and textures
of your choice to create 5 Basic Elements
for scrapbooking: 12 inch Ric Rac, a set
of 4 photo or page corners, a clip, an Eight
Petal Paper Pieced Flower and an eyelet.

This item contains: Templates for the elements, Script files,
Full Instruction and email information,
if you need any help or support.

AND FINALLY....
Thanks for reading and being so patient
to wait for this weeks freebies.

Sorry ran out of bandwidth on the
first link, so I had to break the file
into 2, you can try these
zip1 zip2
Now I have had an issue with esnips
they don't like you downloading 2
large files at a setting, so
if you can't get both right
away be sure to check back.
Sorry for the inconvience.

Sorry I got a little carried away with
the buttons, but they are so easy
to do with this script

Anyway, Happy Scrapping Everyone
MaryAnne

Whining? me? never!

2007-06-24T17:10:00.000-04:00

I've always been jealous, it seems those
who have photoshop, pscs, pscs2, etc. always
are having the fun of new actions to work with,
well I use Paint Shop Pro and I want them too!!!!
(whine)

Sound familiar?
Well guess what, we are on our way!!

Create as many buttons as you desire with just a few clicks
of your mouse! Amaze all your friends, create custom
buttons to match your favorite designer's papers to use in your layouts!
Sell your designs or give them away as gifts!
Commercial use is permitted.
Templates, Script, Set up and Use instructions are all included,
so that even someone who's brand new can use these!
(lol, I just noticed I forgot to put the name on my preview)

Well anyway, Multi Button Script, for Paint Shop Pro
is now available at Digi By Design and will be available
soon at Digi Shop Resources.

I couldn't help myself but play last night, so now I
have 2 new Button Packs available too!

Button Pack 1
included 100 assorted buttons using papers and colors
found in my Cortinas del Azul kit

Button Pack 2

includes 100 assorted buttons using
the papers and color schemes found in
Driftwood
Thanks for reading
oh, btw, did you notice the buttons on the Script
Preview way at the top?
If you go HERE you can pick up a zip
with those 10 plus 23 more!

That set coordinates with my
Lilies and Daisies Kit

Happy Scrapping,
MaryAnne

Super Saturday Saver and more...

2007-06-23T08:45:00.000-04:00

I was so excited by these beauties I also created another freebie!

This one is a little add on that includes:
1 12x12 paper, 1 shaker, 1 plain ribbon,
1 ribbon with element and a paperclip element.

Get it Here

See other posts from this week for more freebies

Happy Scrapping,

MaryAnne

teen kit, new mini and FREEBIE...

2007-06-21T23:06:00.000-04:00

WDYT. IRL. JK. KIT. TMOT.
Say what?!

Ever think you don't speak the same language as your kids?

If you're like me you probably don't! But now that won't matter,
here's a kit to get you up to speed.

With a modern and funky twist to everyday experiences,
"Say What?!" is a Scrapbook Kit that contains everything
you need to complete a whole album about your teenagers
or even questions you might have about what they are saying.
This is a great kit to scrap for or with your teens and kids.

Lilies and Daisies

This is a fun mini kit inspired by some beautiful summer flowers.
This mini includes solid and patterned papers, some hangers, ribbons
and cutouts. Perfect for all kinds of layouts and at a mini price!

Finally, thanks for visiting my blog!
Here is a little freebie

it coordinates with the Lilies and Daisies mini kit, but I just
couldn't wait to add it to the kit before it went into the mall.
So my impatience is Your FREEBIE!

Happy Scrapping,
MaryAnne

2007-06-20T08:48:00.000-04:00

ENDLESS POSSIBILITIES!
I'm sure everyone's been told, things they can do are only
limited by ones imagination. I know I heard that growing
up almost daily. I never did understand why grownups
would say those things. I was just a kid and my
imagination was quite unique!
But as I grew up, I had many more things to occupy
my mind. I found my imagination is somewhat
limited now. So I have to work to be creative.
Digital Scrapbooking has opened many doors
to that creativity! But as I sit here to play,
some days I really don't feel creative.
I can look at things for hours and just have
no clue what to do with this stuff on my screen.

The other day I had an AH-Ha moment.
I don't want to just create scrapbook kits and
elements. I'm taking time from my family to do
this and lets face it, I'm home because I want
to spend time with my family. So I had to
find a way to actually use my own creations
in my scrapbooks too (I'm a year behind right now!)

I looked at my newest items, my
Paper Makers Overlays

(also available at Digi Shop Resources)
and figured out I could spend just a bit more
time playing with them and create a kit
using the overlays. They are for personal
or commercial use, so I could put them to
work for myself!

I used the overlays above to create
Driftwood

It's a soft hued kit with
ENDLESS POSSIBILITIES!
Perfect for layouts of everyday, heritage and more.

As thanks for listening to my ramblings.
I have a little freebie for you.
You can get it

HERE
Now back to real life.

Happy Scrapping,
MaryAnne

Ok, I'm back, lol
I was playing around with a script today
and I finished it!!
I thought I'd share

visit here to pick it up.
Don't use psp, that's ok.
The zip has 10 buttons saved as png's too.

Happy Scrapping,

maryanne

Happy Father's Day

2007-06-17T07:45:00.000-04:00

In honor of my dad

and dad's everywhere...

Sunday only you can get all of the products in my store,
new items, commercial use products, etc. for
30% off

I wanted to create a special freebie just for Father's Day.
So I used the color scheme from my
Man of the House kit

and a set of my new overlays to create
this little freebie.

and actually it's not that small. It ended up to be 39mb's!
Zip1 Zip2
Enjoy!

Happy Scrapping,

Maryanne

Happy Sweet 16!

2007-06-15T23:03:00.000-04:00

It's official I have a 16 year old!

In honor of her birthday this week

I created this little freebie

and of course I used my Sweet 16 Kit

that I made especially for this occasion!

As well as some of my newest

Paper Makers Overlays!

I now have 6 sets available in the

commercial use products at Digi by Design

When you get a minute, check them out.

They have been so much fun to create and

I'm learning how amazing they really are!

In just a few clicks I can have many different

papers ready to include in a kit, give away as

a freebie or use to create some of my most

prized layouts for my dd's, which reminds me

I'm now officially 1 year behind!!!!!!!!!!!!

So I'm really going to be needing

the overlays, lol.

Saturday June 16th is another
Super Saver Saturday
This week you can pick up
Dandelion Bouquets
at 50% off!

Don't forget to pick up
Dandelion Bouquets Freebie
(for just a little longer)
It's just a little add-on I created to say Thanks!
The alpha included in the freebie was created using
my Alphacreate Script too!
If you have Paint Shop Pro you'll love it!
It takes making a custom filled alpha from a
tedious chore to a breeze in just a click of
your mouse! Best thing is you can use papers
you already own! Things you've created for
yourself or some from your favorite designer!!
Or you can use the materials palette to make
the alpha in any color and texture combination
you'd like, creating a perfect alpha for any
layout you choose!
This script is another of my commercial use
products, so if you're a designer or would like
to be, give it a try. You can make tons of
alpha's to add to kits or freebies in just
a short time!

Thanks for visiting

Happy Scrapping

MaryAnne

Fun stuff and new Freebies!

2007-06-13T07:56:00.000-04:00

I've been playing again!

I'm simply amazed at what Paint Shop Pro can do!

I came up with some patterns that I'm having fun with,

so I created some Paper Makers Overlays.

These are for Professional and Personal use

Available Here

Then using some overlays from set 3, I created

3 papers in the color scheme of Cortinas del Azul,

just for fun!

Papers Available Here

Happy Scrapping,

maryanne

2007-06-11T20:28:00.000-04:00

Attention
Paint Shop Pro Users

A new font template set is available for my
Alphacreate script

Alphacreate Font Template - Dominican

(note the pattern and colors on the alpha in this preview, a new alpha is coming soon)

With this script PSP users can create custom filled alpha's in
seconds! You can create your own alpha templates
to use over and over again from your favorite fonts.
Not ready to create your own font templates?
I've included 1 in with the Alphacreate script
and now there is another!

Don't have enough choices? More font templates
are being created and will be available soon.

This is a MUST HAVE item for designers using
Paint Shop Pro or scrappers who'd like custom created
alpha's from their favorite designers papers!!
It does the work for you so you can spend your
time creating beautiful layouts or kits!!

Thanks for reading.
maryanne

Cortinas del Azul - Freebie

2007-06-10T23:57:00.000-04:00

Well dh and dd were on the computer all day,

so I didn't have time to work on my freebie until about

10:30pm! But here it is!!!

You can download it here

Happy Scrapping

maryanne

Cortinas del Azul

2007-06-10T09:05:00.000-04:00

I was in the mood for something light

yet masculine when I stumbled across

this color scheme.

Cortinas del Azul

This kit contains: 10 12x12 patterned and

lightly textured papers, 3 frame clusters,

2 full Alpha's and 34 other "elements" including

ribbons, tied bows, laced eyelets and more,

all created in 300dpi.

Since I have to create the

"basic element packs"

in order to make other items for the kit,

I've added 4 element packs in with

this kit as well (not shown in preview)

remember I do allow limited commercial use on all

my products, just email me if you'd like to use

something or have any questions.

Now I need your help!!

I'm trying to create at least 1 kit and mini kit

a week, just to keep the creativity flowing.

But I'm running out of kit idea's and kit names.

If you suggest a kit and/or a name that I make

into a kit I will give it to you FREE!

Just make sure to leave me contact info,

so I can send the kit or a coupon to you.

Thanks for reading,

Happy Scrapping

MaryAnne

Super Saturday Saver

2007-06-09T08:22:00.000-04:00

Super Saturday Saver

Today in the shop you'll find

Painted Roses

This kit began with the desire of bring a new "old" technique to the
digital scrapbooking world. I began searching for a way to "digitally paint"
using the tole painting style. While I've never been a painter,
I enjoy trying new things just to see if it can be done.
This is a mostly monochromatic kit based on a digital painted rose.
The kit has 13 beautiful mixture of card stock, slight grunge
and water colored 12x12 papers. It includes ribbons, twils,
bows, tied ribbons, buttons, frame, ruffled ribbon, and
a string of beads, all created at 300 dpi.

Today only 50% OFF!

Happy Scrapping,

maryanne

Have you ever received a Dandelion Bouquet?

2007-06-07T08:28:00.001-04:00

Dandelion Bouquets are the choice of bouquets

for every child!

Now you can get your own

Dandelion Bouquet kit!

Be sure to pick up your own

Dandelion Bouquet Freebie

Do you like surprises?

Then I have one you're just going to love!

Here's my

GRAB BAG

Happy Scrapping.

MaryAnne

NEW PAINT SHOP PRO SCRIPT FOR CREATING ALPHA'S With a Sample Alpha FREE

2007-06-01T19:39:00.000-04:00

Are you a designer using Paint Shop Pro and

you'd love to make alpha's but they are so tedious?

Or are you a scrapper that would like an alpha

in the paper from your favorite designer or in the
colors that match your layouts?

Well then this script is for YOU!

YOU CAN PICK IT UP HERE

With 1 click of the mouse you can create uppercase,

lowercase or numbers and punctuation!

This is a Paint Shop Pro script that creates

a customized filled alpha on individual canvas',
then saves them as png files for you.

You can use any paper, pattern or colors,

the possibilities are endless!
It takes all the work out of making alpha's in Paint Shop Pro
and is perfect for both commercial and private use.

It works with Paint Shop Pro 9, 10 and 11.

Thanks for reading.

Here's another freebie, just for visiting

Download here

here's a bonus freebie for you faithful blog readers

Download here

Happy Scrapping

MaryAnne

Time to CELEBRATE!! School's Out!!

2007-05-31T07:56:00.000-04:00

Time to Celebrate!

as I told you yesterday, my dd's

are now home for the summer!!

After yesterday's 1/2 day, my dd helped

me to begin a celebration kit

School's Out

is now available at Digi by Design

This is a super fun mini kit tailor made for

the END OF THE YEAR!!

Come help me celebrate!

You can pick up the coordinating alpha

HERE

Thanks for reading!!

oops, it's summer vacation,

better get off before the dd's wake up.

Happy Scrapping.

MaryAnne

Last Day of School!!!!

2007-05-30T09:56:00.000-04:00

My girls are all mine again, today's their last day!!

lol, I'm so excited to have them home again,

anyway I made another little freebie this morning

Here are 5 circle stamps

They coordinate with my

Man of the House

kit, but are adorable all by themselves too.

Happy Scrapping

maryanne

On a roll...

2007-05-29T18:23:00.000-04:00

Ok, I'm really sick of being sick!!!!!!!!!!
I guess I'll have to cut down my pine tree or give up breathing?!

Anyway, all this sitting time has given

me a chance to jump head first into creating kits again.

Released today

and introductory price 25% off

"Man of the House"

This kit is full of papers and elements with a masculine flair.

Perfect for all your layouts of your sons, husbands,

boyfriends, dads, grandpa's, uncles, etc.

I added a couple "fathers day" items too.

This kit also contains a "happy fathers day" circle

stamp in png, .abr and psp brush files,

so everyone can use it.

Just click the kit name to visit the store

Just for visiting me ~ Here is a little Freebie

Happy Scrapping.

MaryAnne