tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-87283653218138102852012-01-30T02:21:57.015-08:00Kim Holmesnoreply@blogger.comBlogger7841100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8728365321813810285.post-29719388886608170522012-01-23T08:21:00.000-08:002012-01-23T08:27:05.767-08:00

It's CHA week and Simple Stories is revealing all their new products!  I love this time of year!  Documented is an amazing new mini album system similar in design and theory to their original Simple Stories concept, just on a smaller scale!  Mini page protectors with divided sleeves are perfect for quick and easy page building -- This and That pages are perfect for journaling or creating mini

Kim Holmesnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8728365321813810285.post-41115414445420004092012-01-22T18:09:00.000-08:002012-01-22T18:09:50.101-08:00

I almost forgot that I had a chance to play in my art loft last week and I choose to work with the fun monthly sketch from My Mind's Eye.  Anam Stubbington created another fun one: I choose to play with my FUN DAY Kraft line that I can't seem to get enough of!  After 25 years with David, every day still feels like NEW love! Of course, I have new photos of baby William today:

Kim Holmesnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8728365321813810285.post-64186072548341504962012-01-22T09:27:00.000-08:002012-01-22T09:34:26.766-08:00

What an experience.  I can't even begin to describe the emotions in that 48 hour period.  But let me try: Thursday evening, we got a call from Mike that Sarah was being induced 9 days before her due date due to slight hypertension.  Even though she new that this would make labor harder and possibly ruin her ability to go natural, she agreed.  In part because she knew that would guarantee me a

Kim Holmesnoreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8728365321813810285.post-26035339711600930432012-01-20T01:23:00.000-08:002012-01-20T01:23:00.454-08:00

This is such an exciting day!  The Design Team at Simple Stories is joining with 7 of our FACEBOOK fans for the first ever SIMPLE STORIES FAN BLOG HOP!  How were they choosen, you ask?  Well, they were the first 7 commenters on our FACEBOOK page announcement.  So, if you haven't "liked" Simple Stories on facebook, do it now!  You don't want to miss the next announcement because we plan on making

Kim Holmesnoreply@blogger.com90tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8728365321813810285.post-38481356622158760822012-01-16T08:57:00.000-08:002012-01-16T08:57:56.539-08:00

We took the younger kids to California for a few days last week and I am trying to sort through over 700 photos (most of which didn't turn out due to user error)!  However, there are still enough to tell our story: We arrived into Orange County (John Wayne) airport at around noonish on Day 1: After picking up our "cool" mini-van, we headed to the city of ORANGE.  This has to be one of my

Kim Holmesnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8728365321813810285.post-42795221331235355752012-01-04T03:37:00.000-08:002012-01-04T03:37:01.425-08:00

....using Simple Stories Year.o.graphy Collection and Glue Arts adhesives!  Be sure to head over to the Simple Stories blog today and see how you can win some for yourself!    

Kim Holmesnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8728365321813810285.post-20261956507053563292012-01-02T18:53:00.000-08:002012-01-02T18:53:26.004-08:00

... all in all a great year.  So many wonderful things to enjoy and even more to look forward to in 2012.  But, for now, I am going to share with you my top 10 layouts of the year....

Kim Holmesnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8728365321813810285.post-61460637541894809062012-01-01T15:17:00.000-08:002012-01-01T15:22:36.582-08:00

Love me a fun Becky Fleck sketch!  Look at this fun one: Here is my creation: ahh, Skunder....love your big slobbery self!

Kim Holmesnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8728365321813810285.post-38203650515924521232012-01-01T08:14:00.000-08:002012-01-01T08:16:32.840-08:00

Won't you BE MINE?  Dixie Pieces' January Kit is perfect for all your Valentine's Day Projects!  It is packed full of Jillibean Soup, Canvas Corp, Maya Road and Doodlebug -- a perfect combination of products I love!  This kit is AMAZING -- honestly one of my favorites -- in fact, it was scary to start cutting into it!  I wanted to stare at it forever! Patterned Paper and CardstockGraphic 45

Kim Holmesnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8728365321813810285.post-63451321612322362622011-12-29T10:18:00.000-08:002011-12-29T10:18:00.228-08:00

Working with Scrappin' Sports & More these last couple of years has been fantastic!  They are an amazing group of ladies and very generous with their designers!  Read through the announcement and give it a try! Design Team Call 2012 Scrappin’ Sports & More (SSM) wants YOU to become a member of our Design Team! Are you running from one sporting event to another? Are your children or

Kim Holmesnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8728365321813810285.post-74491282822303190312011-12-27T08:50:00.000-08:002011-12-27T08:53:25.164-08:00

Hey friends!  I know that 2011 isn't officially over for a few more days, but I wanted to share a fun tutorial with you for making Valentines! Just think how ahead of the game you will be if you have all your Valentine's created in January!  Okay, well that could be a stretch --- but still this is a fun technique that could be used for a variety of creations!  Step #1 - Spritz manila tag with

Kim Holmesnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8728365321813810285.post-9185638259953654912011-12-22T20:57:00.000-08:002011-12-22T20:57:14.989-08:00

I may have a slight Pinterest Addiction.  Just a slight one.  I have so many fun things pinned that I want to do with my house, that I could never have enough time.  So many projects, so little time.  Truly. This is why I get all my Christmas stuff done by the 3rd week of December.  The last week, I unwind, create and just have fun.  This helps me to relax an enjoy the holiday.  It really helps.

Kim Holmesnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8728365321813810285.post-62713647109107045002011-12-19T15:20:00.000-08:002011-12-19T21:01:53.930-08:00

Let the countdown begin!  We officially have less than 1 week till Christmas and I think I'm almost ready! Cookies, fudge and caramel corn have been baked: The presents have all been wrapped and put under the tree: We have all attended multiple Christmas events in our fancy outfits: and we are ready to celebrate the birth of our SAVIOR!  I am taking a few days off now to relax and enjoy the

Kim Holmesnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8728365321813810285.post-33874168482164289552011-12-16T09:02:00.000-08:002011-12-16T09:02:39.686-08:00

I'm a sweatshirt and jeans kind of girl - rarely wear makeup, jewelry or even style my hair.  I'm very low-maintence that way.  So, it is very blog worthy that this is the 3rd day in a row that I have gotten dressed up and put my makeup on! The Christmas season will do that to me - so many fun thngs to do that reqire a little extra effort besides jeans and hoodies!  So, here it is ....

Kim Holmesnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8728365321813810285.post-28130310390299484112011-12-12T08:21:00.000-08:002011-12-12T08:22:05.581-08:00

yes, we are less than 2 weeks from Christmas, but over at the Imaginisce Blog it is SPRINGTIME!  It is our big release party for the spring line, Hippity Hop!  You will be inspired all week and of course have a chance to win your own HIPPITY HOP COLLECTION!  Be sure to follow along all week long!  Good Luck & Happy Spring!

Kim Holmesnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8728365321813810285.post-3583464519716205622011-12-11T12:40:00.000-08:002011-12-11T12:40:12.148-08:00

Found a few minutes to play along with My Mind's Eye and this wonderful sketch by Anam Stubbington: Here are a couple of completely different takes on this sketch: You should play along!  You have until the 18th of December to link up your card!  Good Luck!

Kim Holmesnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8728365321813810285.post-23438043031632209692011-12-08T12:37:00.000-08:002011-12-08T12:37:45.173-08:00

I finally updated my blog header!  Strange how so much has changed in 2 years yet so much has stayed the same.  Does that make any sense at all?  Not only is everyone 2 years older, but there is so many changes that you can't see. -Jordan & Jesse are engaged -Mike & Sarah are expecting -Emma is running Tommy & Angie ragged -Travis is single -Austin is driving -Chase has no more braces -Luke is

Kim Holmesnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8728365321813810285.post-20315910050789650992011-12-06T08:46:00.000-08:002011-12-06T08:46:04.932-08:00

I'm making one this year!  This is a first for me and I am super excited to be participating with Maya Road and Simple Stories as they team up in the perfect partnership!  You can follow along for the next 3 weeks over on their blogs!  Here is a peek at my book:

Kim Holmesnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8728365321813810285.post-80958858423264295652011-12-02T09:38:00.000-08:002011-12-02T09:38:55.622-08:00

Ahhh....don't miss this! Simple Stories had some amazing Christmas inspiration on their blog this week and today you can download all of them in a PDF file!  In addition, you can leave a comment for your own chance to win a 25 Days of Christmas Collection Kit!  Gift Cards are such an easy thing to give to those hard to shop for people on my Christmas list, but I always feel slightly guilty at

Kim Holmesnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8728365321813810285.post-72257262291128950232011-12-01T09:13:00.000-08:002011-12-06T16:43:06.531-08:00

The new December Kit from Dixie Pieces is another home run!  This one won't be around long, I guarantee it!  As you can guess by the title, it is a very eclectic kit full of miscellaneous goodies, not usually my style, but I had so much fun with this one.  Love that working with kits stretches me to try new things! Here are my designs this month: Remember - you can find all the fabulous

Kim Holmesnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8728365321813810285.post-6264372472131246852011-11-25T02:35:00.000-08:002011-11-25T02:35:00.177-08:00

Year.o.graphy by Simple Stories is one of my all time favorite paper line -- and that is not an exaggeration! There are so many fun things that are possible with this line.  I love it most for everyday photos like these:

Kim Holmesnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8728365321813810285.post-21184017463571044542011-11-19T12:27:00.000-08:002011-11-19T12:27:00.523-08:00

Are you tired of me yet?  Well, this should do it for a little while anyway.  I have a few more to share, but need to wait till next week for those!  Here is a sneak though: Yep, that is my adorable puppy dog, Cooper, and some yummy SIMPLE STORIES papers!  Check back next week to get a better look at those layouts! These last two layouts are just because - just because I loved the photos and

Kim Holmesnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8728365321813810285.post-9285922135275963782011-11-17T14:00:00.000-08:002011-12-06T16:43:53.583-08:00

These three layouts were created while playing one of our retreat games - BOSSY SCRAPPER.  Our version of the game goes like this:Everyone who is playing wrtes one thing on a scrap of paper --- one thing that yu can use or do to a scrapbook page.  Then all the items are read outloud and everyone's layouts have to have all the items on them.  So for instance, this layout had the following

Kim Holmesnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8728365321813810285.post-36754313863572481522011-11-16T13:48:00.000-08:002011-11-16T13:48:00.379-08:00

These next 3 cards I created using random lime green and red scraps to match the fun felt embellishments I had in my stash from Pebbles: My goal this weekend was to use up random embellishments that I have had laying around forever.  So I also used these pink felt embellishments from Pebbles too: These are some fun photos from an old retreat - way back in 2008.  Thanks to Robyn for sharing he

Kim Holmesnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8728365321813810285.post-76838718704733885602011-11-15T13:47:00.000-08:002011-11-15T14:01:52.478-08:00

Heading out of town is always so much work:  pack this, plan that, organize everything... almost too much to do.  I said ALMOST.  Once I get there and get those first few hugs from my friends - it is all worth it.  Even if I had to leave early this year, it didn't matter.  All that chattin', laughin' and scrappin' is just good for the soul! Over the next few days, I will be sharing all the

Kim Holmesnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8728365321813810285.post-42183883698272535342011-11-07T09:57:00.000-08:002011-11-07T09:57:55.198-08:00

Ahhh...I love having all these fun pictures of Emma to scrap with!  These photos were from the first day they got here straight from the airport.  It was already getting late, but it was warm outside.  She took one look at that pool and jumped right in!  It was so fun to see her smile and laugh - so great to just be able to watch her have a good time!  These papers are from the fabulous October

Kim Holmesnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8728365321813810285.post-41610028831531807702011-11-02T09:27:00.000-07:002011-12-06T16:41:28.903-08:00

NOVEMBER KIT - SWEATER WEATHER! Get out your sweaters and scarves, bundle up, and welcome Fall! With the Sweater Weather kit from Dixie Pieces all of your fall pictures and projects can be complete. Papers include Little Yellow Bicycle Hello Fall, Crate Paper Farmhouse, and coordinating Bazzill cardstock colors. Embellishments include a Maya Road acorn chipboard book, Fancy Pants buttons,

Kim Holmesnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8728365321813810285.post-30951768712185673582011-11-01T03:50:00.000-07:002011-11-01T03:50:00.506-07:00

Right now on the Simple Stories Blog you can find a promo code for a brand new SILHOUETTE AMERICA product and a giveaway from Simple Stories! Here is a sneak peak:

Kim Holmesnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8728365321813810285.post-10150526555621631402011-10-28T08:26:00.000-07:002011-10-28T08:28:12.435-07:00

Spent some time in my loft purging, organizing and then creating this week. Felt good to get back in the groove and have some play time!  Here are a few cards I created for the My Mind's Eye October Sketch Challenge... Of course, I didn't get them finished in time for this month's contest, but it was fun playing along anyway!  I am loving the black, goldenrod, and cream color combo! This

Kim Holmesnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8728365321813810285.post-35151565917868092552011-10-26T02:36:00.000-07:002011-10-26T08:53:05.498-07:00

The November Kit over at Dixie Pieces is almost here!  I have been having a ton of fun playing with it and wanted to sneak you a few peeks! So many wonderful fall colors to play with.  Be sure to watch for the kit release over in the Dixie Pieces Store on November 1st!

Kim Holmesnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8728365321813810285.post-25046946752979213982011-10-25T11:04:00.000-07:002011-10-25T11:04:35.752-07:00

Oh yeah, it's going to be fun!  We have a great weekend of scrappin', games, and fun all ready for you!  And just look at those prize sponsors! What could be better than that?  Be sure to check out the forum for all the details!

Kim Holmesnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8728365321813810285.post-51092557991240304272011-10-21T06:03:00.000-07:002011-10-21T06:03:00.838-07:00

This fabulous new collection arrived on my doorstep last week and I couldn't wait to play with it!  Simple Stories has done it again... Year.O.Graphy  is amazing, to say the least!  See for yourself:      What do you think?  Are you in love?  I know I am....I have some big plans for this line, but being the impatient person that I am, I couldn't wait to cut into the paper, so I created a couple

Kim Holmesnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8728365321813810285.post-13049786392159605482011-10-17T15:28:00.000-07:002011-10-19T14:36:13.855-07:00

Scrappin' Sports & More is teaming up with the Sketch Inspiration blog this month!  That means one great sketch, lots of great inspiration, and a huge, amazing prize courtesy of Scrappin' Sports & More!  Be sure to check out the other designs inspired by the great sketch above and be sure to play along with us this month!

Kim Holmesnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8728365321813810285.post-87050176462473245852011-10-07T12:06:00.000-07:002011-10-07T12:10:32.326-07:00

Yes, it's been over 3 weeks since the kids went home to Missouri and I am just getting my photos organized and sent to Costco.  It's been a crazy busy 3 weeks with school & sports, what can I say? Before I share some pics with you, I want to tell you about a few fun things happening in my scrappin' world with Simple Stories! It's my posting day over on the Simple Stories Blog!  Here is a sneak

Kim Holmesnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8728365321813810285.post-26721730092477763472011-10-01T06:00:00.000-07:002011-10-01T06:00:02.191-07:00

Isn't this a beautiful kit?  I loved working with it!  You can see all the designs over in the gallery at Dixie Pieces!  But here is a sample for you: Be sure to keep your eyes open for the new Design Team announcement coming soon too!

Kim Holmesnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8728365321813810285.post-27954931670849803582011-09-30T08:00:00.000-07:002011-09-30T08:00:09.692-07:00

It's my day to post today over on the Scrappin' Sports & More Blog.  But I wanted to share this post with my family and friends here on my blog too for those that don't follow the scrapbooking world! ************* This is Jordan's final season of college soccer.  It seems like just yesterday that she was 4 years old and tripping over her feet when she ran.  The doctor suggested putting her in

Kim Holmesnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8728365321813810285.post-63076236283330060602011-09-29T14:38:00.000-07:002011-09-29T14:38:28.095-07:00

Just need to take a minute and catch my breath  and let everyone know how much I love this man: and how thankful I am that he has given me a life that includes all these wonderful people: that's all.

Kim Holmesnoreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8728365321813810285.post-42568259076421223302011-09-23T07:55:00.000-07:002011-09-23T07:55:05.038-07:00

Just poppin' in really quick to tell you that it's my posting day over on the Simple Stories Blog! Go over for a visit and leave me some love!

Kim Holmesnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8728365321813810285.post-62974442607101896762011-09-19T07:37:00.000-07:002011-09-19T07:37:09.658-07:00

No, we aren't leaving for another cruise --- but man do I wish we were! This new paper line from Imaginisce is perfect for cruisin' or any other form of travelin'! I just love the color family and the sophisticated, but fun feel of "Bon Voyage". This week is RELEASE WEEK and that means that you can win, win, win!  Just follow along on the Imaginisce Blog every day this week for lots of chances

Kim Holmesnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8728365321813810285.post-2453324676632950492011-09-16T08:48:00.000-07:002011-09-16T08:48:41.811-07:00

The only thing that could have made this night and this photo more perfect was if Mike and Jesse were here with us! 

Kim Holmesnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8728365321813810285.post-85911406835824077572011-09-12T18:47:00.000-07:002011-09-12T18:47:03.413-07:00

DixiePieces is a monthly kit club looking for design team members!  This call is open to US and Canadian designers; deadline for submission in September 26th, 2011.   This will be a six-month commitment, starting October 1st, 2011.  Each designer is expected to: *     Submit two to three layouts from each monthly kit; 12x12 preferred but 8-1/2x11 are acceptable *     Create a project or two cards

Kim Holmesnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8728365321813810285.post-32267739105354807132011-09-07T16:44:00.000-07:002011-09-17T18:11:11.084-07:00

Actually, there has been no back to school chaos!  I have all the paperwork and online requirements already completed for the whole school year and my meeting with the counselor is tomorrow!  There are no classes scheduled this week or next while all the families at the resource center go through orientation, so it's actually very quiet around here!  Mix that with the stomach flu that has gone

Kim Holmesnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8728365321813810285.post-16772129319334966782011-09-02T17:20:00.000-07:002011-09-02T17:20:26.955-07:00

David & the boys attend a Father/Son Bible study once a month together and they always try and do something fun to illustrate the lesson for the evening...last night was no exception! They BBQ'd burgers and then went dirt biking!  Their lesson was all about the balance between having fun and prioritizing the disciplines of life and faith.  What a great way to learn! I'm thankful for the

Kim Holmesnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8728365321813810285.post-20658175355105520312011-09-01T07:26:00.000-07:002011-09-02T17:14:58.123-07:00

There is a brand new kit today over at Dixie Pieces! A BIRD'S LIFE! Isn't that fun?  Here are the details: The September Dixie Pieces kit, called "A Bird's Life" transitions us from summer into fall with bits of summer sky blues, oranges and yellows which flow into the greens and golds of fall.  "A Bird's Life" flies away from the conventional and into the whimsical; it's perfect for capturing

Kim Holmesnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8728365321813810285.post-56480270589692046652011-08-30T07:45:00.000-07:002011-08-30T07:47:25.701-07:00

Renewed, refreshed and ready for school planning!  I have lots on my plate this week to get ready for school, but I am relaxed and ready thanks to spending the weekend with friends.  We scrapped, chatted and couponed and basically had a wonderful time.  Met some new scrappers and even converted some hold outs over to the dark side of couponing.  Love that! Here are a few layouts that I can share

Kim Holmesnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8728365321813810285.post-13537214485829445042011-08-24T07:42:00.000-07:002011-08-24T09:39:12.477-07:00

Meet Irene: Yes, Irene is a tugboat.  Irene belongs to Marshall, one of David's work buddies at City Light.  We spent Saturday evening aboard Irene enjoying the 85 degree weather and good company. 

Kim Holmesnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8728365321813810285.post-80983872177819232042011-08-23T07:41:00.000-07:002011-08-23T07:41:43.999-07:00

Hello.....it's release week over at the Imaginisce Blog and it is all about heading back to school with the new GEEK IS CHIC collection!  This has to be my all time favorite collection from Imaginisce!  Love this sheet: and these die cuts: You will find lots of great back to school ideas this week over on the Imaginisce Blog along with new giveaways every single day! So be sure to head on

Kim Holmesnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8728365321813810285.post-25549595465483099322011-08-23T07:30:00.000-07:002011-08-23T07:30:30.021-07:00

The winner of the 6x6 Baby Steps Paper Pad from Simple Stories is..... Marley said... Im in love with your mini album!! Its so beautiful! Your daughter in law will be so happy.. and the album is even gonna look more beautiful with the baby pictures in it!! Love your cards too.. thank you so much for a chance to win! Big hugs and thanks for sharing.. Marley August 19, 2011 2:03 PM

Kim Holmesnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8728365321813810285.post-45103645225224926902011-08-19T04:00:00.000-07:002011-08-19T07:33:16.577-07:00

Hey everyone!  It's Friday and it's my posting day over at the SIMPLE STORIES blog --- both perfect reasons to have a giveaway today!  In honor of my BABY STEPS mini-album that is featured today on http://simplestories.typepad.com/simple_stories/2011/08/simple-style-baby-steps.html I am giving away a 6 x 6 BABY STEPS paper pad!  All it takes to be entered to win is two little comments -- one here

Kim Holmesnoreply@blogger.com45tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8728365321813810285.post-9758032143350826512011-08-18T07:34:00.000-07:002011-08-18T07:34:04.586-07:00

Today my baby turns 23 years old!  Not sure how that happened so fast --- Happy Birthday, Travis.  I hope your day is wonderful!

Kim Holmesnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8728365321813810285.post-51272810477521637302011-08-17T18:23:00.000-07:002011-08-17T18:23:37.438-07:00

Really?  I know I get in a funk during the dark winter months and even during the wet months of spring --- but the warm, sunny summer months?  UGH....is all I have to say about that.  Maybe it's that I feel like it's gone by so fast that I haven't had time to enjoy it --- maybe I'm already worried about it being over --- maybe it's just that life seems to be crazy busy and a bit out of control

Kim Holmesnoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8728365321813810285.post-50837736213465037222011-08-09T06:00:00.000-07:002011-08-09T06:00:24.903-07:00

Vacation? Yes --- but scrapbook hiatus? Nah.... I can't go a week without creating.  So what do I do while on vacation?  Well, I find myself the closest local scrapbook store and spend the day with friends who will come and keep me company!  Tami, Andrea and I met up in Silverdale for a day of scrappin', laughin' and chattin' and I even got a few layouts finished! Here is some inspiration for you

Kim Holmesnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8728365321813810285.post-61176003949827538552011-08-08T03:25:00.000-07:002011-08-08T04:05:43.287-07:00

We are truly blessed - we get to count the Nehr's and the Reuter's as family.  When we moved into a new neighborhood almost 12 years ago, the Nehr's made us feel like we belonged.  Dick & Julie took the time to get to know us - each one of us - and make us all feel special.  They were like another set of grandparents to my children and like parents to David & I.  Their daughter, Tami, was like

Kim Holmesnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8728365321813810285.post-68496195706963144982011-08-05T07:00:00.000-07:002011-08-05T07:00:02.747-07:00

Ahh......I'm in love again with another Simple Stories product!  The new 6 x 6 mini pads are my new obsession!  You know all those fabulous page elements that are the trademark of Simple Stories?  Well, now they come in a whole other set of sizes which doubles our options when creating!  I love that all thos little cards and elements now come in minature too!  Here is a peek of a project that I

Kim Holmesnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8728365321813810285.post-57928402207185880882011-08-01T11:00:00.000-07:002011-08-01T11:00:00.134-07:00

This month one of my favorite manufacturers has teamed up with my favorite kit club to make an amazing kit!  The Simple Life is the August Kit over at Dixie Pieces and it is packed full of yummy papers from the Life Documented line from Simple Stories!  You can find all the great Design Team inspiration in the gallery and of course you can get your own kit in the store at Dixie Pieces! 

Kim Holmesnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8728365321813810285.post-27089186314435651912011-07-28T18:56:00.000-07:002011-07-28T18:59:54.978-07:00

The weather is sunny and 80 degrees today, feels truly like summer.  I say that with a bit of hesitation because I would love for this summertime weather to stick around all week while we are at the Canal.  I'm hoping that we truly get that lucky! But, this year, you can never tell from one moment to the other.  Here is another layout that I completed for the Urban Scrapbooker - it is the Sweet

Kim Holmesnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8728365321813810285.post-25882764305738263682011-07-26T07:43:00.000-07:002011-07-26T07:43:50.825-07:00

...okay, it's July 26th and today I woke up to torrential rainshowers for the second straight day.  It's extrememly hard to make summer time plans when you can't count on the weather!  In fact, we have a baseball BBQ tonight!  Okay, enough of the whining... I have been able to get some scrappin' time in since we are stuck in the house --- so I guess there is a silver lining behind those clouds!

Kim Holmesnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8728365321813810285.post-81552858808420296982011-07-25T11:00:00.000-07:002011-07-25T11:02:40.492-07:00

I always come home from CHA with renewed energy and mojo!  This year was no exception...lucky for me that Brooke at the Urban Scrapbooker had some fun product for me to play with!  I was especially excited to get ahold of the new Authentique products...they were a big hit at the show this year!  This page/card set was created with their BLISSFUL Collection -- isn't that yellow and grey yummy

Kim Holmesnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8728365321813810285.post-19012524888102409422011-07-22T13:24:00.000-07:002011-07-22T13:38:18.668-07:00

It was toasty both inside and outside the convention center at CHA this week!  The outside temp in Chicago was pushing 100 degrees with a heat index of almost 115 degrees!  WOWZERS...we did our best to stay inside and avoid the heat! As for inside the convention center, the air conditioning was working, but all the scrapping products were HOT too!  There were so many great new releases -- my wish

Kim Holmesnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8728365321813810285.post-42662786318720461742011-07-17T17:30:00.000-07:002011-07-17T17:31:34.920-07:00

Leaving for Chicago tomorrow --- Can't wait to hang out with Sherry and see all the new scrapbooking goodies!  There is just something about being at the tradeshow to renew my spirits and get my creative mojo back on track!  I should return on Saturday all ready to create! I have one layout to share that I created for a Crate Paper challenge and then completely missed getting it uploaded by the

Kim Holmesnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8728365321813810285.post-55949161522852457142011-07-14T20:03:00.000-07:002011-07-14T20:03:29.942-07:00

...the 25 Days of Summer from Simple Stories! Today is the Sneak Peek for this new line over on the Simple Stories Blog!  Be sure to head over there to find out how to enter to win your own collection!  Oh my, look at how little the kids were!  Look at how young David & I were!  14 years ago --- seems like yesterday!

Kim Holmesnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8728365321813810285.post-33985952446900742502011-07-13T09:25:00.000-07:002011-07-22T10:33:02.724-07:00

I'm not sitting in the courthouse right now on jury duty!  I was scheduled to serve the rest of this week starting today in group #4.  When I called to check in last night, the recording said, "All those in groups 1,2,3 & ..........6, report for duty!  Why they skipped group #4 I will never know, but be forever grateful! I have so much going on and jury duty was going to create major issues for

Kim Holmesnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8728365321813810285.post-36466480274844999492011-07-10T08:50:00.001-07:002011-07-10T08:50:45.065-07:00

Hang in there loyal followers!  I am over my head in CHA projects and baseball --- but I will have tons to share with you very soon!

Kim Holmesnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8728365321813810285.post-84533188225936402542011-07-02T08:00:00.000-07:002011-07-22T10:34:35.324-07:00

The New England Scrapbook Company has done it again!  The July box is amazing and packed full of Basic Grey's "Out of Print" Collection!  Not only do you get tons of great papers, but the whole set of coordinating chipboard and a wonderful pack of 3-D flowers/butterflies!  These were my favorites this month!  You can tell by looking through my creations --- they are popping up everywhere! 

Kim Holmesnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8728365321813810285.post-49909852558226838622011-07-01T06:00:00.000-07:002011-07-01T07:12:13.143-07:00

Is it really July already?  I am having a hard time believing that half of 2011 is already in the books!  Man oh man, is life flying by.  I do love a new month though - all the possibilities in front of me.  This month starts off with a fun new kit from Dixie Pieces! Doesn't that just scream SUMMER FUN to you? See that adorable mini album from Maya Road?  I used the inside pages as the

Kim Holmesnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8728365321813810285.post-55308381697401743532011-06-27T08:50:00.000-07:002011-06-27T08:50:29.229-07:00

Even though summer has just officially made it's arrival here in the Pacific Northwest, in the scrapbooking world, it's already fall and holiday time!  Imaginisce has just released "Happy Harvest" and once again they have created the most adorable fall product line EVER!  Of course, release parties are all about giveaways and this is no exception!  Be sure to visit the blog every day this week

Kim Holmesnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8728365321813810285.post-46864723950062112432011-06-23T08:16:00.000-07:002011-06-23T08:16:01.441-07:00

Simple Stories & Unity Stamps Join Forces!  Amazing things are happening in the scrapbook world today.  Unity Stamps has partnered with Simple Stories to bring you a collection of fresh stamp sets to coordinate with current lines of products in the Simple Stories collections!  In addition, they are marketing a line of Itty Bitty Stamps too! Just think of all the possibilities!  I can't wait to

Kim Holmesnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8728365321813810285.post-58750356802252355532011-06-22T16:22:00.000-07:002011-06-22T16:22:29.771-07:00

The winner of the 6 x 6 paper pack:  from this post is....... Becky said...Love your layout! My favorite water activity is floating in the pool and staring up at the sky! I'm a follower!June 18, 2011 11:18 PM Becky - email me at theholmescrew@comcast.net with your snail mail address and I will get is sent right out to you!

Kim Holmesnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8728365321813810285.post-48542329775489483142011-06-21T09:30:00.000-07:002011-06-21T09:30:14.390-07:00

2012 is going to be a year of wonderful thing for our family!  This little one is set to make their arrival in January!  Sarah & Mike are expecting and everyone is over the top excited!  I can't wait to hold and love on this little one! Then just a few months later, these two are set to be married!  The big proposal was last night and he pulled off a huge surprise and had both families present

Kim Holmesnoreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8728365321813810285.post-58028098135996805272011-06-18T16:46:00.000-07:002011-06-18T16:46:29.869-07:00

A brand new copy of this book just arrived on my doorstep!  Do you know why?  hehehehe.....one of my layouts is in the book!  Only one out of 500+, but I couldn't be more excited!  My first ever publication in a real book!  WhooHooo! What's even better is that now I can share my layout with you!  I created it over 15 months ago and haven't been able to share it, so here you go: Thanks for

Kim Holmesnoreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8728365321813810285.post-46692754559145481712011-06-18T04:00:00.000-07:002011-06-18T04:00:03.747-07:00

If you hop over to the Best Creation blog today you will find lots of water-themed projects created by the fabulous designers using the new SPLASH FUN line!  In fact, be sure to check out the blog post from yesterday too!  You will find lots of design team links leading you to some great projects!  There are guessing games with prizes to be won and many of the designers are having giveaways on

Kim Holmesnoreply@blogger.com20tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8728365321813810285.post-30889146675977413142011-06-17T04:00:00.001-07:002011-06-17T04:00:07.362-07:00

It's my day to post over on the Simple Stories Blog --- so head on over there and leave me some love!  Become a follower too --- I just got a peek at the new releases for summer CHA and you are not going to want to miss anything!  Keep an eye on their blog for all the new goodies coming soon!  Here is a sneak peek of what you can find over on their blog from me today:

Kim Holmesnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8728365321813810285.post-39212248912623595932011-06-15T07:59:00.000-07:002011-06-16T19:33:02.350-07:00

A huge thank you to all of you who left me sweet comments and became followers!  The winner of the RAK from me is comment #24 --- Janet said...   Beautiful tags would be difficut to pic a favorite one, Those papers are great. Just became a new follower  http://ladyluvbug.blogspot.com/ Janet --- please send me your snail mail address to theholmescrew@comcast.net and I will get a fun Imaginisce

Kim Holmesnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8728365321813810285.post-36767200206250257992011-06-08T03:00:00.000-07:002011-06-08T07:43:15.891-07:00

Imaginisce is having a fun blog hop today!  It's all about gift tags and I am excited to be participating!  If you hopped over here from Penny's blog, than you are in the right place!  Welcome!  You only have a couple more stops!  If you are just stopping by to see what I am up to, be sure to head back to the Imaginisce blog and start the blog hop from the beginning!  There are prizes to be won

Kim Holmesnoreply@blogger.com115tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8728365321813810285.post-29255136351876690142011-06-07T15:21:00.000-07:002011-06-07T15:21:54.806-07:00

After two days of sunshine and warm temps it is raining again here in the Pacific Northwest.  We are definitely used to it, but when you are trying to celebrate the the first day of summer, it can still be a bummer.  We have completed all of our school work, had our appointment with the district for credits, and even  turned off the alarms.  But then the rain came.  Guess what?  We celebrated

Kim Holmesnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8728365321813810285.post-28664137591470666262011-06-05T17:03:00.000-07:002011-06-05T17:05:36.133-07:00

Yesterday was a great day, a very good day indeed.  I had the pleasure of scrappin' the day away with Tami, Sherry & Andrea.  To make it even better, I scrapped some fun things just for me without any assignments.  Don't get me wrong --- I love my scrappin' assignments and all the fun things I get to play with and do --- but there is something freeing about just scrappin ---- just putting the

Kim Holmesnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8728365321813810285.post-87806254177346351982011-06-03T06:56:00.000-07:002011-06-03T07:00:38.943-07:00

A couple things to share today! First off --- Zaycon Foods is coming back to this area (Oregon, Washington, and Idaho) next week with their meat truck full of skinless boneless chicken breast for $1.64/lb!  You do have to purchase a 40lb box - but it is so worth it!  I purchased some in February and we have already gone through it all!  They will be coming back to this area with chicken some

Kim Holmesnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8728365321813810285.post-65310125452514371602011-06-03T06:18:00.000-07:002011-06-03T06:18:36.525-07:00

I'm the blogger today over on the Simple Stories Blog and it's all about being Simply Creative and working with the fun cards and elements that are included in the Simple Stories product lines!  For this year in review mini -- I went with the 4x6 card elements and added photos!  So easy! Be sure to go over and see some more of the pages and leave me a comment and let me know you love me!

Kim Holmesnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8728365321813810285.post-46953483400245019042011-06-02T12:27:00.000-07:002011-06-05T10:18:56.081-07:00

I've decided that if I can't get the weather to cooperate, that I will just have to scrap sunshine instead!  The new June Company Box from the New England Scrapbook Company is definitely sunshine in a box!  It is packed full of the new line from Echo Park - Splash with additional fun stuff from Petaloo, Pebbles, and American Crafts!  The bright, bold, cheerful colors work perfect for all your

Kim Holmesnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8728365321813810285.post-12023886341399336422011-06-01T14:13:00.000-07:002011-06-01T14:13:46.316-07:00

Today is the last day of classes for the boys and that means no more waking up at 7am.  Praise the Lord!  I'm sure it will take a few days or weeks for my internal alarm to remember that but at least I can lay in bed and read till later!  Gotta love summer!  This month's kit over at Dixie Pieces is all about having fun and heading into summer!  Bright primary colors are perfect for those end of

Kim Holmesnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8728365321813810285.post-9030273237683295372011-05-27T04:00:00.000-07:002011-05-27T04:00:00.244-07:00

Grab your suntan lotion and a towel and get ready for a fun Summertime Hop to get some great ideasto get caught up with old summer photos and lots of ideasfor inspiring you for this summer too!! Our first stop on this weekend hop is to Liz's blog and thenoff to a idea packed hop with the rest of the team and our Guest Designer for this month Shannon Morgan... And of course we have lots of

Kim Holmesnoreply@blogger.com25tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8728365321813810285.post-18924881739177848262011-05-25T11:37:00.000-07:002011-05-25T11:37:15.423-07:00

... the Lord is really testing our patience this year when it comes to the weather!  We are lucky to get a peek of the sun and a taste of the warmth and then ---- it's gone again.  I for one need a steady dose of vitamin D so that I can stock it up for next winter!  This is what happens at our house after a very long, cold, wet fall and winter: It was barely 65 degrees out and they were suppose

Kim Holmesnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8728365321813810285.post-91661223684608789622011-05-23T07:17:00.000-07:002011-05-23T07:17:57.261-07:00

This is by far one of my favorite lines ever released from Best Creation!  I Love America is full of sparkle and red, white & blue --- just the perfect combination to celebrate our country's birthday!  Be sure to visit thier blog for all kids of wonderful creations by the Design Team! 

Kim Holmesnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8728365321813810285.post-42143400037616890532011-05-23T07:03:00.000-07:002011-05-23T07:03:52.772-07:00

Imaginisce has just released their newest line, "Happy Campers"!  Look how adorable it is...love that old trailer and cute bear belly!  Today is day number one of the release party over on the Imaginisce Blog and you know that means pleanty of wonderful inspiration from the Design Team!  There will be new creations posted all week and of course plenty of chances to win your own Happy Campers

Kim Holmesnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8728365321813810285.post-32918129860758892322011-05-17T10:59:00.000-07:002011-05-17T10:59:56.223-07:00

I have always been a bargain hunter when it comes to clothes & household furnishings --- there is nothing better than finding the perfect piece of furniture at a garage sale or thrift store.  My house is full of them.  I am constantly being asked "Where did you get that?" or "Can you decorate my house?" --- the answer is usually at a garage sale and no, I can't.  Decorating your home with bargain

Kim Holmesnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8728365321813810285.post-62392537236022421112011-05-10T05:00:00.000-07:002011-05-10T05:00:07.608-07:00

This month over at the New England Scrapbook Company, Sue & Lynn have created an amazing company box!  It is full of gorgeous Graphic 45 papers from the Once Upon a Springtime line! You can find all the wonderful designs over on their Flickr page! Here is the layout I created: Aren't those metal flowers the coolest thing?  I was so excited to use them and most of you kow that I rarely get

Kim Holmesnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8728365321813810285.post-49929308257591801322011-05-09T13:09:00.000-07:002011-05-09T13:09:03.489-07:00

Mother's Day was amazing!  Almost all the kids were here - missed you Tom, Angie, & Emma - and I couldn't have felt more blessed.  I love the craziness that ensues when we all try to sit around the dining room table and chat!  We don't have a big enough table to seat 15 but we all manage to squeeze in and talk all at the same time!  It is wonderful chaos!  It was wonderful to have both grandma's

Kim Holmesnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8728365321813810285.post-72502715919369476222011-05-09T12:55:00.000-07:002011-05-09T12:55:37.906-07:00

that I haven't shared with you yet! Enjoy!

Kim Holmesnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8728365321813810285.post-33369105183187032892011-05-09T12:35:00.000-07:002011-05-09T12:35:21.389-07:00

Jordan finished up the semester and GRADUATED on Saturday!  I am still in shock that my baby girl is a certified teacher.  I couldn't be more proud of her.  In addition to graduating with honors, she was also inducted into the Sigma Chi Pi Honor Society.  This honor went to only 14 of the 400 graduates and stands for "Diligent Christian Leaders".  She was chosen for exhibiting outstanding

Kim Holmesnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8728365321813810285.post-72796118075147236302011-05-02T19:48:00.000-07:002011-05-02T19:49:38.610-07:00

No, not balls or bowling pins or sticks of fire --- just a mom who juggles a hundred different tasks at one time!  Teacher, accountant, shopper, saver, mother, taxi driver, coach, manager, designer, wife, house cleaner ---- the list goes on and on. Does that sound like you?  Well if it does, Bella Blvd has just the contest for you! Here are all the details - I can't wait to see what you create!

Kim Holmesnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8728365321813810285.post-56238249107852217692011-05-02T13:54:00.000-07:002011-05-02T13:57:06.817-07:00

I have been holding on to some fabulous news for awhile now and I'm ready to burst!  Lucky for me, I can share it with you today and avoid that messy scene!  I am now officially a designer for Simple Stories! You can find the formal announcement on their blog today along with a chance to win a prize pack! You may know them as Memory Works - a consultant based scrapbooking company.  They have

Kim Holmesnoreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8728365321813810285.post-47996595847837798792011-05-01T21:10:00.000-07:002011-05-01T21:10:27.662-07:00

Dixie Pieces has released it's May Kit and it is absolutely AWESOME!  Hambly, Little Yellow Bicycle, Lily Bee and so many embellishments that you can't even imagine!  Take a look: You can get your kit for just $28!  That is an amazing value ---this kit is full of fun stuff --- LOVE those real wood tags! Here are a few of my designs:   You can find all sorts of amazing designs and inspiration

Kim Holmesnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8728365321813810285.post-10955948324414241992011-04-25T01:00:00.000-07:002011-04-25T01:00:02.068-07:00

It is Hip Hop time again ladies so grab your Bunny Ears and come on a fun hop with us to learn lots of incredible techniques to use all those fun border and individual punches that you have.in your stash! If you are here and just hearing about this great blog hop - be sure to head on over to the BEST CREATION's blog to get started!  There you will find the list of participants and the order that

Kim Holmesnoreply@blogger.com39tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8728365321813810285.post-45226622037722447442011-04-21T09:34:00.000-07:002011-04-21T09:34:39.610-07:00

Best Creation has done it again!  Their new release, Robots, is full of bright primary colors, fun icons and amazing prints.  The next couple of days should be amazing over on their blog with a ton of amazing sketches and samples all using this fun new line!  Do me a favor and go over to their blog and leave a comment! Here are my designs for the release party - both based off sketches from Becky

Kim Holmesnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8728365321813810285.post-19821351022827277442011-04-20T08:12:00.000-07:002011-04-20T08:15:02.441-07:00

Who would have thought that migraines were contagious? Okay, so they probably aren't, but at my house, I'm just not sure.  Jordan came home on Monday with one and then I had one yesterday.  Keep in mind, that I take medication that has a wonderful side effect of keeping my migraines at bay and I haven't had one in almost 4 years!  So thankfully, yesterday's wasn't a "kick everyone out of the

Kim Holmesnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8728365321813810285.post-529522219493042042011-04-18T08:03:00.000-07:002011-04-18T08:03:28.735-07:00

Best Creations is releasing a brand new line this week - Ballerina Princess! It is every little girl's dream and this new paper line is perfect!  I used these fun sketches from Becky Fleck and PageMaps:  Be sure to head on over to the Best Creation Blog today and every day this week to check out all of the DT's creations using this fun new line! There just might be a chance to win!

Kim Holmesnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8728365321813810285.post-83838163475466027852011-04-15T09:31:00.000-07:002011-04-15T09:31:33.379-07:00

The April Company Box from the New England Scrapbook Co. was amazing!  I couldn't wait to dive in and start creating!  Make sure you contact them at info@newenglandscrapbook.com for all the details!  So here you go:

Kim Holmesnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8728365321813810285.post-21718852174310198462011-04-15T09:17:00.000-07:002011-04-15T09:17:57.491-07:00

Hello!  It's Friday and the weekend is almost here --- just a few hours of school and work before we get those all popular 2 days off!  This weekend is going to be filled with baseball, friends, and scrappin' --- everything that brings a smile to my face this time of year.  Before I head into the weekend, I want to share some things with you that I created.  The first card was created using the

Kim Holmesnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8728365321813810285.post-79163459441942046282011-04-14T08:13:00.000-07:002011-04-14T08:13:51.907-07:00

It's Tax weekend here in the US and everyone is scrambling to get their taxes done and figure out how much cash they have to send to the IRS ---- but over at Dixie Pieces Kit Club we are going to be sharing ways to save our cash and use or stashes instead!  Be sure to join me this weekend for some fun challenges, games and prizes --- but most of all some fun tips to stretch our supplies and help

Kim Holmesnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8728365321813810285.post-89850623938745346792011-04-13T09:46:00.000-07:002011-04-13T09:46:00.475-07:00

I am always on the lookout for things that I can recycle in my scrapbooking.  We switched laundry soap last week and began to use an all in one soap & laundry sheet.  These go in the washing machine with the clothes and then directly into the dryer with them too.  They serve double duty.  When I pulled them out of the dryer, I knew instantly that they would serve triple duty!  They are nice and

Kim Holmesnoreply@blogger.com4