I need some help here please - I can't decide which one I like better and would appreciate comments -- this layout (version 1) has no colored paper strips under the top journaling line. Whereas the 2nd version does. So whatdya think:1 or 2 ???

Journaling: "We met on-line in a scrapbook forum and became fast friends. We've been able to get together twice in person and it was so fun to spend a recent afternoon chatting, eating, and drinking a little wine". April '09

Credits:

Sue Cummings Quick page 22 (slightly recolored paint swatches to match blue stitching)
Sue Cummings word art - Happy Thoughts #11-20 (coming soon!)
Sue Cummings wordart - Inspirations 52 - week 16
Leiko Beck - colored paper and blue stitching swirl
Free PSE Defog Action by Erin at Digital Photography for Moms (used on photo)
Font: Barbara's Hand for journaling.
Font: Typewriter for April 09