Cracker Crumbs

I saw a cute idea in a recent issue of a scrapbook magazine. As I frantically clean and cook for my expected company (all the way from Arizona) it's good to remember the important stuff. The idea I read suggested taking a picture of guests to your home and asking them to write a quick note about why they came. The creator of this idea didn't even add any embellishments or decoration of any kind. She just taped the photo onto pretty paper and slid it into one side of a small album and the note into the other side. Her very own "guest book" with no hassle at all.

And lots of warm memories-- which is what I should be thinking about instead of crumbs on the floor.

Crunch Time

If it hasn't already occurred to you that the most romantic day of the year is only a week away, it will soon. The grocery store I frequent even has a countdown on a chalkboard right as you walk in. So it is officially "crunch time." And while cards and pictures are taken care of, there is still... THE GIFT. And ladies, what do you get a guy?

The radio has been full of commericals for things I'd love-- tulips or roses, earrings, even silky pj's that come in a hat box. One channel keeps giving away $150 good towards a maid service.

But there has not been one advertisement I am aware of with a good idea for what to get your guy.

So, here, complied from various websites, are my favorite ideas. And please-- tell me yours! It's so crunch time!

• Electronic accessories, i tunes gift certificate, or car charger
• Fav guy movies through the ages-- the Godfather, James Bond, ya know
• Upgrade his cable package with a sports network
• Personalized M&Ms
• Thoughtful notes tucked into his briefcase, coat pocket, desk drawer, driver's seat etc.
• Gift certificate for an experience he's always wanted like driving a NASCAR, ride in a rodeo, or attend master BBQ school
• Hide chocolate in small packages all over the house
• Create a music video with pictures of you together
• Cookie Bouquet

What are you doing?

Inspiration

Yesterday I shared a tip for scrapbooking when you have more photos than time. ( Designs of Mine: Organization)

Today, I'm going to leek another secret.

Scrapbooking is all about creativity-- but not all of it has to be yours. Some days, when I just need a jump start, I start with a sketch of photo layouts. These can be found in scrapbook magazines, at craft store websites, or at http://www.pagemaps.com/. I love these maps!

Change what you need, add where you want and have fun! Here are some of my favorite inspired by PageMaps.

The sooner the better!

I love scrap magazines, pretty pictures, and page sketches. The problem is finding what I need... So I'm going to (REALLY!) create tabbed folders and cut and paste my scrapping inspirations into organized categories. As soon as I get off the internet...