Use of a template

Templates make scraping much faster. Yet they still allow for personalization.
I see it as providing a framework without the detail.
Here's an example. I reduced the size of the inner circle and most of the elements that were included. Added three papers but rotated each of themto provide an interesting change of direction.
And, I used a visual triangle for the three red elements.
Simple but compelling.

Taking a class

From Cathy Zielske called "Design Your Life". The first lesson is about page balance. She discusses both symmetrical and asymmetrical balance and provides some templates for us to use. Since I am a digital scrap booker, I find it quite easy to modify them to fit the number of photos I  have.

Here are a few examples of my symmetrical work. For the first one, I searched online for the font that Toys R Us use. It was free so I downloaded it and put it in my PC font folder.  Both of these pages are actually 12 x 12 inches. I love the white space that size provides. It also allow the photos to be larger. Enjoy!

North of South

Heading home...

Used a scrap kit called New Directions from Anita Designs and Dido Designs

Are we done yet?

A few of the things that are sooooo Ireland and fun things along the way!

Kilkenny

Today, we walked our fannies off out and about Kilkenny. We walked throught the ruins of what had been the Jerpoint Abbey. Fortunately we coule climb the stairs because the view of the country side were quite nice. We also stopped at St Canice's Cathedral but did not climb the watch tower. It required youth and stamina. We had the promise of lunch.

And then their was Kilkenny Castle which was built in 1195. I am always stunned when I consider the age of these beautiful buildings in all  of Europe. How they were ever constructed, considering the tools they had then and that they remain in existance.

Waterford

I love Waterford crystal and really wanted to see how this beautiful glass was made. The rest of the group didn't want to go but Brenden agree to take Rick and me there. It was a short buss ride south. 

The Waterford factory was very interesting. I learned that Waterford is not just made in Ireland anymore but is also made in other parts of Europe. This factory mostly made the one of a kind trophy glass, which they always make two of...just in case.

We were able to see the glass melting phase, then pouring it into molds, some blowing and the etching which was done by the master craftsman. There was a showroom with some of the pieces that were made for world events. It was truly fascinating.

Mount Juliet

We stayed in apartments on these lovely grounds. Walking to dinner through beautiful gardens was such a treat.

 This was my favorite golf course. Perhaps because it was so much like what I am used to. It was Rick's least favorite as he likes the challenge of the rough and wiry Irish links courses.

And then there is the challenge of repacking the van. Stuff seems to grow as we travel. Why is that?