Description: I COMPLETED THIS LO FOR THE COSMO CRICKET CHALLENGE, USING 75% COSMO CRICKET..I USED THE BE GOOD COLLECTION. AND FOR THE AUGUST JOURNALING W/ A TWIST ADD A BUTTON/BUTTONS.
I USED SEVERAL TECHNIQUES..ANTIQUING, DISTRESSING, WALNUT INK, STAMPING, CRACKLE PAINT. I PUT SEVERAL PICTURES CLOSE UPS IN THE GALLERY.
THE JOURNALING READS:When I was a child Christmas time was the most wonderful time of the year. I was so excited and loved putting up decorations and making all kind of goodies. Most of these traditions have carried thru into adult hood. When I first got married I soon realized I was not going to be able to have the “SAME” kind of Christmas that I was accustomed to…there were no decorations, no tree at first your daddy did bring one home one Saturday. It was quickly looking like there was going to be no Holiday that I being an only child was used to. I was 17 and expecting my first child who would be born in January, your daddy was 19 and worked every day and we still could barely get by trying to get ready for a baby and pay rent, etc. there was no money for Christmas items or gifts..etc.

This went on for many years to come although your daddy would always make sure you guys had toys and a tree. We would shop to get just the right toys, take you to see Santa and the trains. Your grandma Nancy would come over and out do us (to speak) and it would hurt our feelings, because we could only do a few things and of course all their toys were much better because it would be the things that were bigger and more costly. Time would change and your grandmother wouldn’t send toys but gave you guy’s money and a call. You all recognized that you didn’t need anything for the holidays to make them magical it was all in your hearts and the fact we all had each other and that we were alive and healthy. This was hard for you younger ones to see, but if you received one toy (and a box) you were so happy and joyous.

As I made this layout I know that Colten and Colby are the only ones in the picture, but I want everyone to know that as I look at you children I didn’t ever need material gifts just the daily enjoyment of you all brings me every gift I could ever want. As Colten and Colby frolicked by the river in their Santa suits that chilly Dec. afternoon in 2005. Bruce Jr. and I enjoyed taking pictures and just seeing you enjoy life...always remember Christmas is in your hearts and these gifts are giving and received everyday.

Thank you children for the gift, because YOU are the GIFT!!!! Love always, Momma