Saturday, November 29, 2008

Shop Michigan

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We all know the economy is struggling, particularly for us here in Michigan.  Some believe that it's such an overwhelming problem that there isn't anything we, as individuals, can do about it.  I disagree.  I read an article yesterday in the Detroit Free Press that inspired me to write this post.  The article is about holiday shopping and talks about making an effort this year to help Michigan, by buying Michigan-made products and supporting Michigan-based businesses.  This has long been a passion of mine and I was thrilled to read the article.  A lot of great products are made right here in Michigan - Kellogg's Cereals, Better Made Potato Chips, Faygo Pop, Sanders Fudge and Carhartt -  just to name a few.  Michigan is also home to more great businesses than just The Big 3 automakers.  Borders Books & Music, Howard Miller Furniture, La-Z-Boy Furniture and Pewabic Pottery all are based in Michigan.  Let's not forget all of the charming boutiques and mom-and-pop stores that are located throughout the state.    

To all of my scrapbooking friends - Did you know that Michigan is home to a major crafts/scrapbook manufacturer?  Colorbok is located in Dexter, MI.  I recently purchased two beautiful Colorbok scrapbooks (pictured above and below) at my favorite store, Scrappy Chic.  Not only do I LOVE my new books, but I love that I was able to support two Michigan businesses by buying them. 

The message here is simple - we can all make a difference in our economic future, by supporting our Michigan businesses.  When shopping for books - choose Borders instead of Barnes & Noble, when grabbing a snack - choose Better Made rather than Frito Lay's and Faygo over Coke.  Heck if you can, buy a shiny new car from Ford, GM or Chrysler.  Just remember....if possible, keep your money in Michigan.  Our future depends on it.

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Wednesday, November 19, 2008

Grandma's Vintage Sweater Dress

Avery loves Grandmas sweater dress

These are old pictures of Avery (she recently turned 4), but I have been waiting to find the perfect inspiration to scrap them.  My sister took these photos of Avery when she was about 8 months old.  They are pretty special because she is wearing her grandma's baby sweater.  Thankfully, Grandma thought she looked so cute, she didn't mind her taking a little taste of the vintage garment.

For this LO, I used the Bookworm Collection from SIS TV (again), as well as some other bits and pieces.  I loved every bit of this kit and am excited that I still have a lot left to use.  One of my favorite elements of this page is the piece of vintage fabric used at the top left.  It came with the kit too and is the perfect match for the sweater.    

Thursday, November 13, 2008

Mama and her Birdies

Mama and her birdies

Just another quick post of a recent layout.  This is such an amazing picture (captured by my sis) of Amy and the kids.  The LO was designed using the Bookworm collection from SIS TV.   I decorated the birdies with patterned paper to represent the family and used the Basic Grey distressing kit to age the paper and the photo. 

Tuesday, November 11, 2008

The Heartbreaker

The Daily Grind of Being a Heartbreaker

My schedule has been so busy lately, I haven't had time to blog.....but worse than that, I haven't had time to scrap!  Uggh.  Thank goodness scrap league is this weekend, so I hope to get a lot accomplished. 

In the meantime I thought I'd post a recent layout of Jack.  I LOVE this picture of him.  I mean seriously...if you were a 7-year-old girl in his class, could you handle it?  He's a little charmer. 

Photo credit goes to my sis, Wendie DeLano.