Easter Blessings

This was a layout I did just for fun! Every Easter morning, we go to Memory Garden's and put flowers on Dave's grave. But this year it was exceptionally sunny and a beautiful spring morning! We were all dressed up and we started taking photos and Alyssia took these photos of Jim and me. She told us to smile and then do something funny.

I love these photos. I am so incredibly blessed to not only have had Dave, but to find Jim and be given a second chance at a happily ever after. It takes a special man to walk alongside you and even be willing to honor the memory of your late husband. I will always be grateful that he does that, not only for my sake, but for the boys as well.

It has not always been easy blending families and starting over, but there's no one else I would want to do it with than Jim. By God's grace and strength, we have become a family and I can honestly say we all love each other. So, when I saw these photos left over from another layout I had done, I thought about how blessed I am and that's why I created this layout.

Scrapbooking Tips:

As I've mentioned numerous times, I love to use sketches when I scrapbook. Allison Davis and Debbie Sanders sketches from Scrapbook Generation are hands down, my favorite! But when I did this layout, I used a Page Map sketch from Becky Fleck.

The major difference between Scrapbook Generation (SG) sketches and Page Maps sketches are the details included. SG sketches include photo and pattern paper measurements and page placements. They also will suggest which paper pieces on the page should have a large or small pattern. What appeals to me is the hard work is done so I can spend my scrapbooking time being creative. There are many free downloaded sketches along with packs and books you can purchase here: scrapbookgeneration.com.

Page Maps are much less detailed. It shows pattern paper and photo placement, along where the title and embellishments should go, and then everything is up to you. I know many scrapbookers who prefer this type of sketch - and you can download many free sketches here: pagemaps.com.

Sketches are a great tool if you struggle getting started. I use them almost every time I scrapbook, and for me, they are a huge timesaver!

Supplies Used:

Cardstock: Bazzill

Pattern Paper & Embellishments: Fancy Pants

Scalloped Border: Made with Creative Memories Border Maker

Mint Green Leaves: The Stamps of Life Border Die

Title: Silhouette Cut File