A COLLEGE LAYOUT

I am sooo thrilled to be Journaling Junkie's Guest DT for March - - the prize for February participation. Challenge 52 requires that you use an oxymoron as your title.

I googled all the oxymora I can find in the net and settled on the one that I can use with my pictures (Mia beat me to little big for my kids LOL). I had these college grad pictures that I kept all these years - - high time to scrap them with my story.

Published at Scrapbook News & Reviews Magazine's May 2009 Issue.

Journaling:
I think it is fair to say that I earned my way to college. I would not have gone to study at my university had it not for the full academic scholarship that was offered to me - - which proved to be most helpful when Dad died of lung cancer halfway through my course. It was hard for me and the family - - we were financially broke, we were all in denial and inconsolable with our loss. I was told to stop studying and start providing for the family... one degree was enough they said...

...but I couldn't... I wouldn't... I didn't. Amidst the emotional and financial blackmails, I persevered. Worked long hours to earn extra money for my allowance, tried to keep everything going my way - - I was determined as hell...

...and it paid off. I graduated Cum Laude with degrees in Economics and Accountancy and placed 9th in the national CPA licensure examination shortly after. The journey was bitter, the end was sweet. To look back with pride and no regrets, sweeter.

Materials used: Papers by CratePaper and MME (Tres Jolie), Cloud9Design paper craft tissue, HG chipboard, AAS conchos and charm, blings, string, KI Lace, acetates.

The LO really is for my kids.... 'nuff said. To view my work at JJ, click here.

Thanks JJ for the opportunity. I am truly deeply honored.

janis

P.S. Which university did I graduate from? The color in my LO is a giveaway - - Animo La Salle! ;o)