Exploding Box

This is the paper box I made that is sort of a mini scrapbook. It's about 4" tall. When you open it up you have many surfaces on which to put pictures, journaling, collages, etc. I have the instructions if anyone wants a copy.

Beach Trip

We went to Myrtle Beach with our friends Laura, Marijka and Annelies. We all had a great time playing in the water, jumping the strong waves, floating in the lazy river and playing in the pools. Even though we used sunscreen, we all got burned since we spent so much time in the sun. The girls are all very compatible (most of the time) and had a ball together. We relaxed a lot and I only got in the car once. We really enjoy their company.

Baby Bella

Click on title "Baby Bella"-- it's a link to see pics of our new cousin, Isabella Johanna Vinci, born 9/10/09. She is so beautiful and her parents Yvette and Frankie look great and have done such a great job! I can't wait to meet Bella and Yvette and see this great family. Details: 9 lbs, 21 inches, blonde hair and long fingers.

Wonder Park

Tessa loves making art, especially out of household trash, broken toys and other recyclable items. I found a Recycled Art contest and Tessa made this and entered it. It's an amusement park make out of pieces of toys and other stuff. She labeled each ride (Slumber Slide, Balloons, Tire Ring and Tower of Terror.) She even drew in people and put in an entrance and exit. Guess what!?! Her piece won Honorable Mention! Out of six pieces in her grade 3-5 age group, they selected First Place and Honorable Mention. I was so pleased for her (and proud of her), and I think she was pleased inside also. It was very creative and I hope she keeps making her art and submitting it where ever she can.

First Day of School

And they're off. 7:05 this morning. Whitney to middle school (6th grade) and Tessa to 4th grade. Both like the teachers they will have. They were excited today!

Countdown to Tucson

Everybody knows now that Whitney competed in an Ironkids triathlon in July and came in 2nd place. She qualified to compete in the national competition in Tucson, Arizona, on October 4th. I added this gadget that inserts a countdown to that date, but no matter how many times I set and save it, it does not show the countdown. It's about 47 days until we go. We can't wait--can you tell??

21st Century Cinderella's Slipper

Last is my entry. This 21st Century woman has more sense and does not wear the 4 inch heels that Cinderella wore. She wears a low, comfortable shoe, with soft insides and simple decoration. Well, this woman does, anyway. I'm so pleased with our entries and the fact that we did this. We saw so many beautiful and creative entries. They may do a hat contest next time--we'll be there.