This weekend, I got a much-needed break. With the first week of school and work demands mounting, I was feeling a little overwhelmed and frankly, downright cranky. I found myself yelling at the kids more and being a little edgier than usual.

I like to scrapbook. I don’t get to do it very often, and I don’t have a lot to show for my efforts, but it gives me a creative outlet, and I get to create wonderful keepsakes for our family’s memories. This weekend, my local scrapbook store celebrated its anniversary with an all-day crop. That’s right, 12 hours of scrapbooking heaven.

I arrived a half-hour late, as usual. I wasn’t ready to get up early, and the family wasn’t quite ready to see me go. James, thankfully, provided the necessary screen, and with a supportive kiss, ushered me to the front door to make my escape.

Here’s how the crop works. You pay for a space at a table, and you bring your pictures and supplies. You get use of the store’s equipment and of course have access to their inventory of paper, embellishments, inks, die-cuts (at a discount), and most importantly their expertise. They have a very creative and helpful staff, who love to share their talents and derive great pleasure in watching their “students” grow. I can’t say enough good things about them.

I’m still a novice scrapper – although I’ve been scrapping for a few years now. I call myself a novice because I haven’t amassed the amount of supplies that necessitates tackle boxes of ribbon and rolling suitcases of papers and embellishments. I’m not sure where I would put all that stuff, and I’m pretty certain I would need to get a second job. Many of these women have whole rooms dedicated to their craft, and I envy them. One day I suppose I might have a room of my own.

The women I sat next to were very nice, and I can’t wait to see them again at perhaps another crop or class. The day was filled with cake, goodies, freebies, and prizes. I got a project accomplished, and I can say I’m very satisfied. I’m very thankful for my supportive husband, who encourages me to take time for myself. Without him, I’d go crazy.

Here are pictures of my project. It consists entirely Bo Bunny if you’re interested.

Thanks for reading! Sally