Stampin' all day

So not worthy....

2011-11-03T09:46:00.001-07:00

Today in my email inbox was a lovely little note telling me I had received a blog award from a fellow consultant Tamytha Jenkins. I have stalked her blog on more than one occasion and have even flat-out stamplifted from her too!! Well, first I was totally flattered...and then felt a bit guilty, since in these past few months I have completely FAILED at this whole blogging thing!! It's not that I'm not 'stamping all day' - it's that I totally forget to take pictures and actually share what I am doing! :) And trust me, with this whole Pinterest inspiration in my life...I am doing A LOT!!

But in order to redeem myself and make sure I don't fail at the whole blog award thing too...I am going to neglect the 100 other things I should be doing right now in order to 'pay it forward' and send some kudos along to some other fellow crafters I know, adore and stalk! :)

For those of you unfamiliar with the Liebster Blog Award the goal of the award is to spotlight those bloggers with less than 200 followers and hopefully help everyone involved to increase their following. The rules are fairly simple...

Thank the giver and link back to the blogger who gave it to you.
Select five bloggers (with less than 200 followers) and leave a comment on their blog letting them know they were selected.
Copy and paste the award on your blog
Have fun!

Here are my fave-five (under 200 followers)...in no particular order!

1. Amy More from amysartfromtheheart.blogspot.com

2. Pamela O'Conner from cherishyourmemories.blogspot.com

3. Jody Gustafson from cre8nmemories.blogspot.com

4. Karen Day from kdaycreations.blogspot.com

5. Christine Adams from creatingwithchristine.com

These ladies have all inspired me and I have most likely 'stamplifted' from them on more than one occasion...so please take a moment to go check them out!

It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas...

2011-10-18T16:11:00.000-07:00

What?? You mean Halloween hasn't come and gone yet? Yes, yes...I know, I know. But in the papercrafting world if you aren't working on your Christmas cards in September/October...you're actually running behind!

I have been a busy, busy girl and been comin' up with some fabulous cards! So here are the Christmas cards you could be making if you were one of the lucky attendees for my Advance Stamper Christmas Card workshop this Saturday.

Each person is going to be making two each of these five fabulous cards!

If you aren't one of the lucky ladies who will be making these on Saturday...but you'd like to make some too...contact me to see how you can get a complete set (pre-stamped images and all) just for your very own!

Boardswapingpalooza!!

2011-08-15T15:15:00.001-07:00

Wanna know what I have been up to?? Take a look...

Yep, you see that right folks! That would be a layout, 6 cards and one goodies box....
TIMES EIGHT!!

Do you wanna know why I have been working my fingers to the bone?? (or stained permanently chocolate brown??) Because I have the extreme pleasure in participating in a phenomenal board swap with some pretty phenomenal ladies!! (I won't be so obnoxious as to name-drop - but you phenomenal ladies know who you are!)

So before I bagged up all this wonderful "Wonderland" artwork up, I just had to photo and share...I actually hate to bag it up now and send it off. (I just wanna stand here and stare at all it's beauty. Like it's the newborn I just gave birth to...cause lemme tell ya girls...I labored over this stuff!!) But since I am already a few days past the deadline...I best be packing it up and shipping it off!!

Of course I will be back this week with close-ups and details about all that fabulousness you see up there! :)

"Nifty Gifty" Workshop

2011-08-06T13:43:00.000-07:00

Nifty Gifty Workshop
Saturday, August 27th 1-5pm
$15 Workshop Fee
RSVP by August 20th
Create these stunning ‘nifty gifts’ when you join me for my next workshop. You will learn how to make a covered notebook, treat box and cardbox with uniquely shaped cards (envelopes included!) We will be playing with new Autumn/Winter papers—Typeset, Cork Letters and classy Antiqued Copper embellishments. Printed instructions will be included to recreate these projects at home!

Can’t make it on the 27th?

Contact me today to book this workshop for you and 2 or more of your friends in your home!

Don't live in my area?

Contact me today to find out how you can get a kit of your very own!

(Consultants are welcome to contact me too!)

It's a big, BIG day!!

2011-08-01T08:59:00.001-07:00

It's here! It's here! The day has finallly arrived! Today is the first official day the new Close to my Heart catalog is available to you! Well, I know many, many consultants have given some fabulous sneak-peeks at some of the new goodies...but now you can order those goodies for yourself too!!

Click here if you would like to see the new catalog

Click here if you would like to get a copy of your very own!

Click here if you're to do some shopping! just ready

The next reason it's a big day is....I have a

BLOG CANDY WINNER!!

Thanks to all you lovely ladies (all 76 of you!!) who checked my blog out and thought it was good enough to want to follow or had already been following. I promise I have every intention of making it worth it!

I had originally intended on having my handsome 8 year old son pull a number for me and I would take a great photo, etc. etc. (You get the idea...) But he seems to be a bit uncooperative this morning. (Something about a penguin needed to be fed in his club??) So I have decided to use my next best option...I random generated a winning number....

So the winner is...

Comment #23

Lori Miller

Congratulations Lori! It was her comment letting me know she had given me a 'shout-out' on her blog which was the winner!

Okay, so that's all I have for now folks! But stay tuned...I have a 'fabulously artsy' blog hop to join...so I must go get my camera and get shootin'. I hope to be back later today to hop-hop-hop!

MEGA SALE!!

2011-07-27T00:00:00.000-07:00

COME SHOP MY STASH!!

My scrapbooking/stamping/papercrafting supply overflow will be displayed during my Open House and is just waiting to go home with you!

Tons of NEW and GENTLY USED stamp sets starting at $2.00!!

Saturday, July 30th

Noon - 4:00pm

Contact me today if you would like directions to my home!

Don't live in the Phoenix/Surprise area??

Then contact me and I would be happy to send you a list of what I have for sale!!

These prices are just too good to miss!!

Extravaganza Artwork...Topiary

2011-07-26T12:01:00.001-07:00

Hello everyone! Hope you are having a terrifict Tuesday!!

Today for your viewing pleasure...I have this incredible topiary make with paper! Yep! You got it! Paper!! This stunning creation was made with the fabulous new 3-D paper flower cut outs from Close to my Heart's new exclusive Art Philosophy Cricut Cartridge. It was as simple and easy as programing my Cricut to cut the flowers, roll and glue to a foam shape!! Now even as easy as it is...I will admit there is about 300 flowers on this baby! So cut yourself some flowers, grab your DVR remote and catch up on your favorite show.

There are a total of six different flower shapes you can cut with CTMH's new Art Philosophy Cartridge. For the foral ball I used the rose style cut to create these semi-opened rose buds. They were cut at 3-3/4", inked and distressed with Chocolate ink and the rolled and glued with a touch of hot glue.

I created the stem of the topiary with a wooden dowel and some scrap floral stems from silk flowers I purchased for another project. I inserted the dowel in the foam ball and secured it in the pot with some additional foam, then surrounded to dowel with the cut stems.

For the 'moss' I cut one of the other styles of flowers from the cartrige - a more 'pom' style flower also at about 3-3/4" in Olive Cardstock.

I was thrilled with the results! I look forward to creating some other incredible home decor with the new Close to my Heart exclusive Art Philosophy Cricut Cartridge!

Thanks for stopping by today!

Extravaganza Artwork...Typeset

2011-07-24T12:34:00.000-07:00

Photos in layout courtesy of Jennifer Strozewski
Today I have for you one of Close to my Heart's new My Reflections Level 2 scrapbooking paper packs - Typeset. It is gorgeous in it's lucios colors of Black, Juniper, Vineyard Berry, Bamboo and Colonial White. It will be your favorite go-to paper pack for all those back to school photos, graduation photos and countdown layouts. But, wait!! What's that you say? My layout is all summery?? Yup! You got it folks! The gorgeous colors in this new paper pack coordinated so well with my photos...it would have been almost criminal not to use it! But doesn't it look great?? It's one of my favorite layouts...for the moment, anyway!

Please enjoy some other selections of my Extravagnza Artwork with the new Typeset paper pack. (Please forgive the photography...as I am a 'mad' papercrafter, but a 'bad' photographer! Can't do it all, right??)

CELEBRATION BLOG CANDY!!

2011-07-22T11:50:00.000-07:00

Okay all you faithful readers!! Time to be rewarded for your efforts! Today I am finally giving away my first BLOG CANDY!! This is celebration for several things...

First, that I have finally gotten over the last big-life-hurdle of preparing for, teaching at and attending Close to My Heart's Annual Convention. (not that more hurdles won't come my way really soon - but I gotta take a breath at sometime, right?)

Next, that I have actually posting on my blog again after a six month absence.

Last, (and most importantly) I am now celebrating my 10th YEAR with Close to my Heart!!

All these things seemed reason enough to celebrate with you and offer you some fabulous prizes and goodies! (Oh - and shamelessly recruit some new followers and readers!)

So here is what I have for one lucky winner:

A beautiful array of handmade items from me!!

You will get 2 cards with envelopes, once card box and one absolutely adorable paper cupcake all created from our gorgeous Sophia My Reflections Level 2 paper pack!

Wanna know how you could enter to win?

Become a follower!!

Then leave a comment telling me that you did or that you already are a smart cookie and you've been following me. :) For another chance to win these fabulous prizes...give me a shout-out on your blog and post a link to my Blog Candy post - of course you'll need to leave another comment telling me that you did, along with your blog address (if you don't - I won't know that you did and you miss your extra chance to win!)

I will leave my very first Blog Candy contest open until July 31st. On that day, I will have my very handsome 8-year-old assistant draw a name and then I'll announce the winner!

In the meantime, keep hanging in here with me! I am in the process of taking photos of all my convention artwork and will begin posting it all really - really soon!!

Psssttt.....remember me??

2011-07-20T14:59:00.000-07:00

Ever have one of those days??

Well, I am having one of those kinds of years!! If there was a life-hurdle out there that needed to be jumped...I've jumped it in the last 6 months. (And if you've every met me personally, you know I'm kind of a 'fluffy' girl and jumping certainly does not come easily to me!!) Yes, folks...you got it! It has been about 6 months since I have been able to share on my blog and I have missed you all terribly. It also seems the few readers I actually have out there in blogger-world might have actually missed me too! (Thanks for your emails of concern that I may have fallen in a ditch or something.)

But I am here to tell you...

I'm back baby!!

So we're going to start off this reunion with my very first every blog candy!! (Must now make mental note to raid my CTMH stash and come up with fantastic prizes and goodies...) Stay-tuned for all the details on how you can win...but I am sure it will involve something along the lines of leaving a comment and following my blog (cause I would love to boost my readership to more than the three loyal people who do read my blog - you know - my mom, my sister and my best friend!)

So hold onto y'er britches folks....cause I look forward to sharing all the fabulous artwork that I have stocked up over that past 6 months....and that includes all the goodies I created to teach at Close To My Heart's Annual Convention...and hopefully try and make up for this incredibly unexcused absence!!

H2H Challenge - Color Challenge

2011-01-16T22:40:00.000-08:00

Welcome to the new year and a new challenge from the H2H Challenge website! My term as a Design Team member has sadly come to an end...however, it still doesn't mean I can't play along! So here is my contribution to the challenge this week!

This week's challenge is a color challenge...here were the colors we were to play with this week...

Thanks for stopping by and taking a look!

New year inspiration...

2011-01-04T20:23:00.000-08:00

SNEAK A PEEK AT GREAT SPRING/SUMMER 2011 IDEA BOOK products! Including amazing deals on new stamp sets and the January stamp of the month when you buy the new Wings Workshops on the Go kit!

All of our Workshops on the Go kits come with paper, accessories and an exclusive stamp set designed especially for the workshop projects. Workshop kits are available in all the new paper packs which premier in the 2011 idea book.

Get your hands on your very own Inspiration brochure to find out about all the details about these spectacular savings by contacting me today!!

You can also view the brochure online here.

During the month of January (1st-31st), when you purchase the Wings Workshop On the Go kit you can also get:

All the NEW stamp sets featured in the brochure at a significant discount - as much as 30-35% off!!
Get an even greater deal on the January Stamp of the Month. If you purchase the Wings Workshop on the Go kit and 4 additional items from the brochure you will get the January Stamp of the Month for FREE! (You could qualify for the FREE stamp set with a purchase as little as $52.75!! And that includes the $29.95 Wings Workshop Kit!!)

You can order these or any of the other 100's of other great Close to my Heart products on my website 24/7!

If I haven't already 'inspired' you enough that you just gotta have these new goodies...take a look at what I was able to do with the spectacular new Wings Paper Pack, coordinating stamps (including the January Stamp of the month) and embellishments I was able to create this gorgeous 9x9 wall hanging that will be my January workshop:

I was 'inspired' by some of the elements on a layout created by a fellow consultant Tammy Jenkins at paperheartist.com. You should check out her blog and her fantastic artwork!

Would you like to see other fantastic artwork from some uber talented conslutants? Click here to visit the host of a "Linky Party" on her blog - the rediculously talented Tresa Black! The number of contributors is growing every day and you will be totally inspired!!

So I hope this post will 'inspire' you to go check out the new Inspirations Brochure or contact me today and I would be delighted to send one to you!

H2H Challenge - Sketch Challenge!

2010-11-29T20:00:00.000-08:00

This week over at H2H we have a sketch challenge. Refer to sketch below:

I was delighted to see that is was very similar to a card I had already been working on as my Christmas card for this year. You see, I recently a GORGEOUS card from my uber talented friend Karen Pederson. (You have to take a moment to visit her blog to see her fantastic work! Just visit her link on the sidebar of my blog.) I had already decided I was going to shamelessly 'CASE' her beautiful card as my Christmas card for this year...and here is what I have working so far...

What is hard to make out on this picture is I have used one of Close to my Heart's Dimensional Element - Flurry snowflake and covered it with Liquid Applique, heat set it and then lightly distressed it with bamboo ink. The smaller snowflake is inked with Barn Red ink and then lightly painted with our really cool Pearl Paint to give it it's shimmery look. I think I am going to make some tweeks and adjustments to this card...before I reproduce it about 100 times! (No kidding my Christmas card list is CRAZY!!) So I will post the final outcome when I finally finish it!

Thanks for stopping by!

H2H Challenge - Going Girly!!

2010-11-15T04:00:00.000-08:00

Okay - so this weeks challenge...is really a challenge for me! I typically am not a very girly-girl when it comes to crafting. I tend to like more clean, masculine look and feel to my art. I certainly don't gravitate to 'bling' and 'glitter'. But a few weeks ago my daughter also challenged me with a request for very glittery- girly birthday invites for her seventeeth birthday. So...challenge accepted!

I am a little disapointed this picture doesn't represent how pretty and glittery this card is. But trust me...it's stunning in person!!

I was able to achieve the airbrushed look by creating my own type of glimmer mist using Close to my Heart products! An empty spray bottle, rubbing alcohol, Pearl Paint and reinkers...was all I needed!! I will be back later this week with a step by step tutorial on how to make your own!

But for now, find your frillly, girls side and create a fabulous card or layout and then hop on over to the H2H Challenge blog and share your creation by Sunday night at 10pm for your chance to be chosen as the Fab Friday Five!! You can also check out the other design team member’s incredible artwork for inspiration! The links to each of their sites can be found on the sidebar of my blog.

H2H Challenge - Color Challenge

2010-11-01T11:41:00.000-07:00

Welcome to this week's H2H Challenge...a color challenge!

At first, I was quite perplexed...as I didn't have even one sheet of Brown Bag to work with! But not to worry, I was off with my reinkers and paper flowers and before long...this was the creation I was able to come up with! I love the fresh crisp look of my two-color card!

So now it’s your turn! Pull out your Sunset, Indian Corm Blue and Brown Bag cardstock and b&t and create a fabulous card or layout and then hop on over to the H2H Challenge blog and share your creation by Sunday night at 10pm for your chance to be chosen as the Fab Friday Five!! You can also check out the other design team member’s incredible artwork for inspiration! The links to each of their sites can be found on the sidebar of my blog.

H2H Challenge - The BOO Crew!!

2010-10-25T11:58:00.000-07:00

It's that time again....it's the H2H Challenge for this week! This week's challenge - should you choose to accept it - is to do something with a Halloween or pumpkin theme. Well, some time back I created this Halloween and this was just the perfect time to show it off again!

I love to be a girl who thinks ‘outside of the box’! My goal in creating artwork is to try and come up with a creative way to use products in a new and unique way. So I have a few tips for using Close to my Heart Products in unexpected ways. First, for this layout, I have used a page from Close to my Heart’s new Mix and Mingle Album as a unique embellishment rather than just using it in creating the standard mini album. Next, at the time I created this layout I did not have any of Close to my Heart’s new Hooligans paper pack (which is our new darling Halloween themed paper pack in the 2010 Autumn/Winter Idea Book.) However, I was not worried! There are several paper packs in our collection which are perfect for this event! Here I have used the very versatile "You Rock" Level 2 Paper Pack with its 'perfect for Halloween' colors of Sunflower, Pansy Purple and Garden Green. Which is my second tip for you – don’t ‘box’ yourself in to the implied theme in each of our paper packs! Many of our paper packs are perfect for all sorts of different events and celebrations! For incorporating the use of the Mix & Mingle album on my layout - Here I have used one of the bracket shaped acrylic pages to create a unique 'dimensional' embellishment for my layout. First, I distressed the acrylic page with black Stazon Ink - in order to really make the shape of my acrylic piece 'pop'. Then I mounted it to the layout by using brads, attached directly to the layout, as spacers and covering the pre-drilled holes with our new Licorice Opaques (new black pearls!!). By placing some of my stamped and cut-out elements on top and behind the acrylic enabled me to make my witch appear as though she was flying over the moon.

I am also pleased to announce that I am the 4 for 40 sponsor this week! So get your 'spooky' creative juices flowin' and share your artwork with us at the H2H Challenge Blog! If we get 40 players again this week - you could be the lucky winner of a fabulous pack of 4 of my cards - created especially just for you!!

All supplies used are Close to my Heart:
*NEW* My Creations Mix & Mingle Mini Album
STAMPS: Fright Night (set of 10) B1359, Beware (Set of 8) D1381
PAPER: You Rock Level 2 Paper Pack, Autumn Harvest Textured Cardstock (retired)
INKS: Sunflower Exclusive Ink, Archival Black Exclusive Ink, Black Stazon, Black Marker
DOODLES: Designer Ribbon Rounds Black Collection, Licorice Opaques, Basic Brad Assortment, Fresh Shapes Dimensional Elements, Monograms Dimensional Elements, Color Ready Alphabets - Bold
TOOLS: Corner Rounder, Cutting Knife, Piercing Tool Kit and Sanding Kit

H2H Challenge - Embossing Time!

2010-10-18T03:00:00.000-07:00

This week at the H2H Challenge blog...EMBOSSING! You can choose to do dry embossing or heat embossing. Well, I really stepped up to the challenge and did both!

I decided to create my festive monocromatic card with the beautiful Juniper snowflake B&T from the Jingle Level 2 paper pack and needed a second B&T texture for the card. So I decided to create my own B&T by dry embossing the Juniper cardstock with a pinstripe. I simply accomplished this by placing my paper in my trimmer (with the blade removed) and used the measuring guide to move along at 1/2 in intervals and use my Embossing Stylus to impress the lines into the paper. Then I lightly sanded to make the dry embossed lines 'pop' more.

For my sweet little ornament...I used the Holiday Trinkets stamp set. I stamped the ornament with Juniper ink on Juniper paper and cut it out. I love this set because it has the perfect little stamps to embellish your ornaments. I used the snowflakes and heat embossed the them in white and then sponged a bit of Juniper ink around the heat-set embossing in order to help those snowflakes 'pop' too.

So now it’s your turn! Grab your stylus or your heat tool (or both) and create a fabulous card and then hop on over to the H2H Challenge blog and share your creation by Sunday night at 10pm for your chance to be chosen as the Fab Friday Five!! You can also check out the other design team member’s incredible artwork for inspiration! The links to each of their sites can be found on the sidebar of my blog.

H2H Challenge - Lovely leaves

2010-10-11T03:00:00.000-07:00

It's time to celebrate fall!! Well, here in Arizona we have FINALLY broken the triple digits and we are beginning to have cooler weather. We even had quite a doozie of a storm last week! So even though we're in the 80's...it's Fall to us! This is why the challenge this week over at H2H is trees and leaves and I was happy to accept the challenge! If you are a regular follower of my blog...you will know my love for snowflakes!! Coming in as a close second is leaves and fall (again- I don't get to see snow and I don't get to really see the changing of the seasons - so I live vicariously through my cards!)

This week, I chose to create this quick and simple little 5x5 card. Of course it was created with our beautiful new papers from our Oliva Level 2 paper pack, a bit of stitching and a 'roll' of the stamp....and ta-da! Simply lovely, in my opinion!

So now it’s your turn! Grab your favorite tree or leaves stamp set and get busy!! Then hop on over to the H2H Challenge blog and share your creation by Sunday night at 10pm for your chance to be chosen as the Fab Friday Five!! You can also check out the other design team member’s incredible artwork for inspiration! The links to each of their sites can be found on the sidebar of my blog.

H2H Challenge - You say it's your birthday??

2010-10-04T08:09:00.000-07:00

Good Morning! I am here once again with the Monday installment of the H2H challenge this week. The challenge this week...if you should choose to accept it...is to create a birthday card! Not so hard, huh! So grab your favorite birthday stamps and make sure to play along this week!

Even with all the new paper in the new 2010 Autumn/Winter catalog, I was drawn to play with one of my all-time favorites - Emporium. This darling little card is actually a 3-1/2x3-1/2" card base mounted onto a 5x5 card. Makes for an interesting little twist for the recipient!

So now it’s your turn! Create a fantastic birthday card and then hop on over to the H2H Challenge blog and share your creation by Sunday night at 10pm for your chance to be chosen as the Fab Friday Five!! You can also check out the other design team member’s incredible artwork for inspiration! The links to each of their sites can be found on the sidebar of my blog.

H2H Challenge - The ABC's of papercrafting

2010-09-27T09:13:00.000-07:00

Welcome! Welcome! It's time once again for the H2H Challenge for this week.

But first I want to let you know about a great new incentive we have going on over on the H2H Challenge blog: This week will be another 4 for 40 week! What that means is, if we get at least 40 participants in this week's challenge, one lucky player will win a set of handcrafted cards from a member of the H2H Design Team. This week, it is none other than the uber-talented Jamia!! So now it's better than ever to get crafty and participate with us!!

Now on to this week's challenge - it's an ABC Challenge. Here is what you have to include in your project:
A= Alphabet. Use alphabet stamps, stickers, etc.... in some way on your project
B= Boy. Your project must be for a boy.
C= Chocolate. You must include the color Chocolate (or other dark brown) somewhere on your artwork.

Here's what I was able to come up with:

So now it’s your turn! Create a piece of artwork with the "ABC" guidelines listed above and then hop on over to the H2H Challenge blog and share your creation by Sunday night at 10pm for your chance to be chosen as the Fab Friday Five!! You can also check out the other design team member’s incredible artwork for inspiration! The links to each of their sites can be found on the sidebar of my blog.

All supplies used are Close to my Heart:
STAMPS: C1359 Sweet Baby D
PAPER: Chocolate, (NEW) Sky and Colonial White Cardstock
INKS: Chocolate Exclusive Inks
DOODLES: Chocolate Ribbon Rounds, Neutral Embroidery Floss, Basic Buttons, Chocolate Mini-Medley

H2H Challenge - Celebrating Fall

2010-09-20T03:00:00.000-07:00

Merry Monday Morning to you all!

Since it is Monday, it is time once again for my contribution to the H2H Challenge blog. This week we have a sketch:

Although it was still 107 degrees this weekend...I cranked up the air conditioner, lit an Autumn Wreath Yankee Candle and wished for actual signs of Fall and cooler weather. (Crazy thinking since we have predictions of triple digit weather all next week! UGH!!) But I did my best to create my enviroment to inspire this beautiful fall card created with our new Oliva Paper Pack.

I made a slight modification to the sketch by running it vertical instead of horizontal...and oh-so-delighted with the results!!

The Fall embelishement was created with a resist technique. I first stamped the celebrate word in Cocoa on Colonial White Cardstock, the stamped the FALL letters with Versamark ink and embossed with clear embossing powder, last I sponged Barn Red ink and destressed the edge with more Cocoa Ink. Love it! Love it! Love it!!

So now it’s your turn! Create a card inspired by the sketch and then hop on over to the H2H Challenge blog and share your creation by Sunday night at 10pm for your chance to be chosen as the Fab Friday Five!! You can also check out the other design team member’s incredible artwork for inspiration! The links to each of their sites can be found on the sidebar of my blog.

All supplies used are Close to my Heart:
STAMPS: C1281 Card Commentary & E1009 Building Block Alphabet
PAPER: Olivia Level 2 Paper Pack, Colonial White - Barn Red - Cocoa Cardstocks
INKS: Versamark, Barn Red and Cocoa Exclusive Ink Pads
DOODLES: Clear Embossing Powder, Foudry Metal Flourish Assortment, Netral Embroidery Floss Assortment, non-CTMH ribbon

H2H Challenge - Sentimentally Yours....

2010-09-13T08:23:00.000-07:00

This week on the Heart 2 Heart Challenge blog, you need to create a card that uses your sentiment as your focal point. Here is my creation using some of our beautiful new Mistletoe Level 2 papers and the new Misteltoe Embellishemts!

So now it’s your turn! Create a card with a sentiment as your focal point and then hop on over to the H2H Challenge blog and share your creation by Sunday night at 10pm for your chance to be chosen as the Fab Friday Five!! You can also check out the other design team member’s incredible artwork for inspiration! The links to each of their sites can be found on the sidebar of my blog.

All supplies used are Close to my Heart:
STAMPS: D1243 Peace on Earth
PAPER: Misletoe Level 2 paper pack
INKS: Cranberry and Desert Sand Exclusive Ink Pads
DOODLES: Mistletoe Assortment, Mocoa Opaques, Cranberry Ribbon, Alphabet Dimension Embellishments, Red & Pink Embroidery Floss Assortment

Christmas Card Workshop

2010-09-10T22:34:00.000-07:00

Christmas Card Workshop
25 Cards in 5 Hours

Saturday, October 2nd from 12:00-5:00pm
At my home in Surprise, AZ

If you can already believe it…it’s time to think about creating those Christmas cards! Join me on Saturday, October 2nd to get a jump start on getting those handmade cards ready. (Local consultants welcome too!) It will be a great day of fun and creativity using our beautiful new Mistletoe Creative Basics Paper Kit, along with simple embellishments to create 25 (5 each of the 5 designs) of these lovely cards.

What's that you say? You don't live locally but still want to make these fantastic cards? Then contact me today to get your very own kit! It will even include the pre-stamped images!!

H2H Challenges - Color Challenge

2010-09-06T03:00:00.000-07:00

Welcome to this weeks installment of the Heart 2 Heart Challenge blog artwork! This week we have a color challenge with the colors of Autumn Terracotta, New England Ivy and Honey.

I chose to use one of our beautiful new stamp sets from the 2010 Autumn/Winter Idea book The Present. I just love the sentiment inlcuded in this stamp set.

So now it’s your turn! Create a card, project or layout with the colors listed above and then hop on over to the H2H Challenge blog and share your creation! You can also check out the other design team member’s incredible artwork for inspiration! The links to each of their sites can be found on the sidebar of my blog.

All supplies used are Close to my Heart:
STAMPS: D1436 The Present, D1227 Legendary Moments
PAPER: Autumn Terracotta, New England Ivy and Honey Cardstocks
INKS: Autumn Terracotta, New England Ivy and Honey Exclusive Inks and Re-Inkers
DOODLES: Metal Brad Assortment, Pewter Designer Brads, Filigree Charms, Big Pinks Paper Flowers

H2H Challenge - Fancy Folds

2010-08-30T05:00:00.000-07:00

This week for the Heart 2 Heart Challenge you are to make an item with a ‘fancy fold’. You may interpret this challenge anyway you like! I choose to make this cute little 4x4 Triangle Fold card that had a surprising way of opening!

Once again, I chose to create with our gorgeous new Magnifique Level 2 papers in a winter theme. I have really enjoyed this paper pack and the lovely shades of blues and brown. Since this one of many projects I have created with this paper, my desk and the surrounding areas are covered with all sorts of Magnifique scraps and lots and lots of glitter! Fun times!!

You can find the instructions for this great little card over at splitcoaststampers.com.

So now it’s your turn! Create a card, project or layout with a 'fancy fold' and then hop on over to the H2H Challenge blog and share your creation! You can also check out the other design team member’s incredible artwork for inspiration! The links to each of their sites can be found on the sidebar of my blog.

All supplies used are Close to my Heart:
STAMPS: D1384 Snow Flurries
PAPER: Magnifique Level 2 Paper Pack
INKS: Lagoon and Pacifica
DOODLES: Colonial White Ribbon Rounds, Shimmer Designer Brads, Dimensional Elements - Flurry, Liquid Applique and Prisma Glitter

H2H Challenge - My Favorite Technique - Stitching!

2010-08-21T11:58:00.000-07:00

Here I am! Back once again to share my latest creation for the Heart 2 Heart Challenge blog. For this week's challenge your artwork needs to feature some sort of stitching - can be real or faux. Love this!! If you know me, I LOVE-LOVE-LOVE to stitch on all my artwork. I even taught the hand stitching class at the 2008 Close to my Heart Extravaganza Class.

It was really hard for me to decide which of my pieces of artwork I wanted to share - but decided to shamelessly share artwork that included my cute little family in it! Although it is created with one of our older paper packs Simple Pleasures (also one of my most faves!) you are also getting another sneak peek at artwork created with our new Mix & Mingle album.

Here you can see I cut the medalion design out of one of the B&T papers and emphasised the design by hand stitching around it.

For this one page layout, I wanted the photo of my family to be the main focal point. However, I wanted to make sure I included photos of my kiddos. So you can see here I have mounted the large focal-point photo with foam mounting tape in order to create a pocket. In this pocket I have tucked a very 'mini' mini-album created with a few of the acrylic pages from our new Mix & Mingle album.

So now it’s your turn! Create a card, project or layout with real or faux stitching and then hop on over to the H2H Challenge blog and share your creation! You can also check out the other design team member’s incredible artwork for inspiration! The links to each of their sites can be found on the sidebar of my blog.

You Are Invited....

2010-08-16T16:46:00.000-07:00

To join me at my

9th Annual New Idea Book

Open House!
Saturday, September 4, 2010 from

10:00am – 1:00pm

The new 2010 Autumn/Winter Idea Book is here! We have some fantastic new products for scrapbooking that are going to knock your socks off! I will be introducing a new scrapbooking guide that will bring a little ‘magic’ to your scrapbooking pages! As always, gorgeous new Level 1 and Level 2 Scrapbooking papers and My Stickease, new faux leather albums with a smaller price, fun new accessories, new mini-albums and so much more! Of course you’ll also find dozens of new My Acrylix stamp sets!

A large SALE table will be set up with all kinds of NEW and gently used scrapbooking items for those who like a deal – or who want some ‘instant gratification’ on the new products offered in the 2010 Autumn/Winter Idea Book. All sales will qualify towards raffle tickets and gifts with purchase!

So join me at my 9th Annual Open House to learn about all these great new products, get your own copy of the new Idea Book and maybe win a prize or two! With Close to my Heart stamping, scrapbooking and paper crafts are faster, simpler and easier than ever before!

FOOD * FUN * PRIZES

· FREE new 2010 Idea Book to each attendee
· Door Prize drawings will be done randomly all day long
· Demonstrations on NEW products
· Preview and sign up for upcoming workshops
· FREE gifts for every $35 in purchases (NO LIMIT!!)
· Bring a friend I have never met and BOTH of you will get FREE gifts!
· TONS of raffle prizes and give-aways! Earn raffle tickets by:
· Just attending!
· Calling or emailing me with an RSVP
· Register and Pre-pay for any of my upcoming workshops
· Book your own home gathering or workshop
· For every $10 of your order/purchase

So come on by and take a peek – for a few minutes or for the whole day! I guarantee you’ll have a blast and leave with a new FREE catalog! I look forward to seeing you there!

If interested please contact me today!!

H2H Challenges - School Days!

2010-08-16T06:00:00.000-07:00

Well, it is time once again for the weekly installment of my design for the H2H Challenge blog. This week - in honor of school starting (YEA!! - oh, was that out loud??) the challenge is to come up with something school related. So here I have a great little notebook, made with the very versatile You Rock paper pack, ready for all those crucial school notes!

So now it’s your turn! Create a card, project or even a layout using a school theme and then hop on over to the H2H Challenge blog and share your creation! You can also check out the other design team member’s incredible artwork for inspiration! The links to each of their sites can be found on the sidebar of my blog

Wordless Wednesday....

2010-08-11T10:23:00.000-07:00

H2H Challenge and another sneak peek!!

2010-08-09T06:00:00.000-07:00

Hello! Hello!

I am back, once again, with the next installment of the H2H Blog Challenge! For this round, our inspiration was a sketch:

Here you will see you are going to get another sneak peek at some of Close to my Heart's fabulous new Autumn/Winter papers and accessories! Wanna know what they are? Check out my supply list at the end of this blog post and add them to your wish list for my Septmeber 4th Open House!!

Some of the current product I used on this card were our Dimensional Elements-Snowflakes. If you know me, then you will know I LOVE to create seasonal artwork with snowflakes! Since I live in the desert - and NEVER get to have a white Christmas - I live vicariously through my art and love using snowflakes!

Here I have used these cute little DE snowflakes with some Liquid Applique and Prisma glitter. Liquid Applique is almost like a little tube of glue - I just squirted it onto the snowflake DE in a very squiggly pattern and sprinkled some Prisma glitter on before heat setting to make it all puff up and look 'snowy'.

All supplies used are Close to my Heart:
STAMPS: D1449 Father Christmas
PAPER: Magnifique Level 2 Paper Pack
INKS: Lagoon and Pacifica
DOODLES: Colonial White Ribbon Rounds, Shimmer Designer Brads, Embroidery Floss - Neutral, Dimensional Elements - Snoflakes and Ornaments, Liquid Applique and Prisma Glitter

So now it’s your turn! Create a card or even a layout using the pictured sketch above and then hop on over to the H2H Challenge blog and share your creation! You can also check out the other design team member’s incredible artwork for inspiration! The links to each of their sites can be found on the sidebar of my blog!

Album Contest Photos

2010-08-05T11:32:00.000-07:00

Hurrah!! My contest album was finally sent back to me. So...just as promised, here are the photos of the layouts in my 3rd place winning album. I am a bit disapointed the album was sure put through the ringer and most of the pages are a bit dog-eared and well handled. But I am still thrilled to have it back and get some of the layouts framed and hung on my wall! (I love to display and enjoy, rather than leave in the album on the shelf.)

First, let me share some of the general rules of the contest. You were to create an album with a minimum of 6 two-page layouts. Your album should somehow encompass/incorporate the theme of the 2010 convention “Picture This”. You were also to focus on the quality of the photography and emotion of the journaling. Also, there were specific requirements for each of the six layouts:

• Layout 1: Have a minimum of 10 photos
• Layout 2: No more than 3 photos
• Layout 3: Black/White or Sepia toned photos
• Layout 4: One photo only on one page (no specifics on other side)
• Layout 5: Only photos of ‘things’ not people
• Layout 6: Be a Studio J layout

My interpretation of the theme was to create this album entitled “I couldn’t picture my life without….” Then, the six layouts were titled according these things in my life I couldn’t imagine living without: Family, Love, My Girls, My Son, Creativity and Friendship.

So here ya go! Stick with me...as there are lots of photos...but hopefully you'll think it's worth the look!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Journaling Reads:

Wow...where do the years go? It seems just like yesterday I met my hubby - a strapping young gent of only 18. He said some funny jokes, made me laugh and swept me off my feet! Here it is 22 years later and we are still like two teenages in love! (Ask my kids...they'll tell you how much they groan when we snuggle!)

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Journaling Reads:

(Behing the Flip Flap with magnetic closure)

Becoming a mother was something I looked forward to ever since I was a little girl. Becoming a mother of - not one - but two teenage girls? YIKES! You hear the horror stories about the tumultuous relationships mothers and daughters can have. But I can't believe how blessed I have been to have such fantastic girls as my daughters! Both of them have far exceeded my hopes and dreams for who they have become and who I see them blossoming into! I cherrish the friendships I have developed with each of them and I am actually looking forward to the rest of your teenage years...

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Journaling Reads:

Okay...why? I just don't get this whole new silly thing you have going on. You are constantly trying to say and do the weirdest things to get attention. I am assured by all this is just a phase...a four year old thing. But geesh! WHAT are you thinking my little man? You like to make goofy faces at the camera, tell jokes that make no sense, copy things we say and then hysterically at yourself and just babble incoherently to no one in particular. Having a boy is a whole new world to me! I can just see your future as the class clown. You are lucky we love you so much...you little goofball!!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Title Quotation:

"To be creative means to be in love with life. You can be creative only if you love life enough you want to enhance it's beauty, you want to bring a little more music to it, a little more poetry to it, a little more dance to it." - Osho

Journaling Reads:

Okay...I confess...I am a creative junkie!! I have tried just about every creative hobby there is out there. But nothing has fed my soul more than scrapbooking. Maybe it is because I am so sentimental. (Secretly - I think it is because it is the hobby with the most toys!!)

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Journaling Reads:

When I became a Close to my Heart consultant I was just looking to get a discount on the products I loved. I never expected to find all the wonderful life-long friends and the long-lost ones! In my 9 years with CTMH, I have made a lot of 'creations' but the bonds I have created with these women are the ones I will forever be most proud of!

HUGE APPRICECIATION SALE!!

2010-08-04T09:48:00.000-07:00

$2, $4, $6 for 8! It's YOU That We Appreciate!

For 8 days only (or while supplies last, whichever comes first) Close to my Heart is offering some RIDICULOUSLY-AMAZING

“Website Only Order” deals on select:

My Stickease Assortments ($2),

Level 1 Scrapbook Kits ($4)

Level 2 Scrapbook Kits ($6).

TAKE ADVANTAGE OF THIS SALE from
Wednesday, August 4 - Wednesday, August 11

(or while supplies last)
on my website at stampinallday.myctmh.com and click 'Shop Online' and there will be a link for the sale..

All items are over 50% off.

H2H Challenge + A Sneak Peek!!

2010-08-02T06:00:00.000-07:00

Welcome to my first H2H Challenge! This week, the challenge is - if you choose to accept it - is to create artwork which includes a tag. That's it...just get creative with Close to my Heart Products and create something with a tag!

Here I have created my challenge piece with some of Close to my Heart’s new products which will be available in the new Autumn/Winter Idea book available September 1st. Although I live in Arizona and we are still in the triple digits (YUCK!)…my mind is already wondering on to the colder months, since all the beautiful new products in the Autumn/Winter idea book are geared towards those nice chilly months!

This little goodie is the perfect gift to give to your favorite someone to ‘sweeten’ up the chilly months for them! It all started with a cute little tin I scored from a dollar bin at Target. Add on some of our gorgeous new Magnifique My Reflections Level 2 papers, tuck in some hot cocoa and marshmallows and wrap it all up with the perfect little tag created with the new A Sip My Acrylix Stamp Set!

All supplies used are Close to my Heart:
STAMPS: A Sip
PAPER: Magnifique Level 2 Paper Pack
INKS: Chocolate, Lagoon and Pacifica
DOODLES: Designer Ribbon Rounds Cocoa and Chocolate Collections, Mistletoe Accssory Assortment Paper Flower and Brads, Liquid Applique

So now it’s your turn! Create something which includes a tag and hop on over to the H2H Challenge blog and share your creation! You can also check out the other design team member’s incredible artwork for inspiration! The links to each of their sites can be found on the sidebar of my blog!

I'm a new Heart 2 Heart (H2H) Challenge Blog Design Team Member!!

2010-07-31T15:11:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago, I applied for my very first ever "Design Team" and was accepted! For the next couple of months, I will be a designer for the H2H Challenge Blog! I am so excited for this new challenge and adventure!

If you are not aware of the H2H Challenge Blog - go there and check it out!! It is a great site where weekly challenges are extended (using EXCLUSIVELY Close to my Heart product) and EVERYONE is invited to play! Take the challenge, play along and you could be picked as one of the top 5 for the week...or even better...be invited to to a Guest Designer!

My first design team challenge starts this Monday, August 2nd! So make sure to check out the blog, become and follower and play along!!

More 'Boo-tiful' Extravaganza Art!!

2010-07-25T14:24:00.001-07:00

Happy Sunday fellow bloggers!! I have the next installment of the art I created for Extravaganza.

For this creation (made with pages from our new Mix & Mingle mini album) I have used the three acrylic pages which come in the 8 page mini album. I distressed all the edges of the acrylic with black Stazon ink (unfortunately since the sign is mounted on black it is harder to see how the black ink helps 'pop' the shapes of the acrylic pieces.) Attached the three pages together at the corners with bigger brads and used photo hangers on the ends for easy hanging!

I also used our fabulouse Monograms Dimensional Elements for the large letters. I covered each of the letters with black cardstock and then painted our new glitter glue over the letters for that extra glittery pop!

In order to have black and orange coordinating ribbon, here I just took some of the black and white gingham ribbon from our Designer Ribbon rounds and sponged Aututmn Terracotta Ink on it!

Last, but certainly not least...here you can get a 'sneak peek' as some of the images in the new "Fright Night" stamp set which we be available this September 1st!

All supplies used are Close to my Heart:
*NEW* My Creations Mix & Mingle Mini Album
STAMPS: Fright Night (set of 10) B1359, Beware (Set of 8) D1381
PAPER: You Rock Level 2 Paper Pack
INKS: Sunflower Exclusive Ink, Archival Black Exclusive Ink, Black Stazon, Black Marker
DOODLES: Designer Ribbon Rounds Black Collection, Licorice Opaques, Basic Brad Assortment, Photo Hangers, Monograms and Stars Dimensional Elements, Rockin' Top Coats, Autumn Buttons, Glitz Stardust Glitter Glue, Black Waxy Flax

"My Boo Crew"

2010-07-23T12:18:00.000-07:00

As promised, here is the next installment of sharing artwork I created for teaching at Extravaganza!

Of course you already know I was given the Mix & Mingle mini album to teach. My goal in creating artwork was to try and come up with some creative ways to use this 'little gem', rather than just creating the standard mini album. Along in my supplies for teaching I rec'd the new Halloween stamp set Fright Night (B1359). I am not able to show you a picture of the actual stamp set - so you will just have to see if you can pick out the stamped images from my artwork! But it is a "Frightfully Delightful" 10 piece stamp set with the perfect images to put the finishing touches on all your 'Spooky' creations!

Here is the two page layout on my first board. At this time, Close to my Heart does not have a specific Halloween themed paper pack. However, not to worry! There are several paper packs in our collection which are perfect for this event! Here I have used the very versatile "You Rock" Level 2 Paper Pack with its 'perfect for Halloween' colors of Sunflower, Pansy Purple and Garden Green.

For incorporating the use of the Mix & Mingle album on my layout - Here I have used one of the bracket shaped acrylic pages to create a unique 'dimensional' embellishment for my layout. First, I distressed the acrylic page with black Stazon Ink - in order to really make the shape of my acrylic piece 'pop'. Then I mounted it to the layout by using brads, attached directly to the layout, as spacers and covering the pre-drilled holes with our new Licorice Opaques (new black pearls!!). By placing some of my stamped and cut-out elements on top and behind the acrylic enabled me to make my witch appear as though she was flying over the moon. I was really delighted with the way this technique turned out!

All supplies used are Close to my Heart:
*NEW* My Creations Mix & Mingle Mini Album
STAMPS: Fright Night (set of 10) B1359, Beware (Set of 8) D1381
PAPER: You Rock Level 2 Paper Pack, Autumn Harvest Textured Cardstock (retired)
INKS: Sunflower Exclusive Ink, Archival Black Exclusive Ink, Black Stazon, Black Marker
DOODLES: Designer Ribbon Rounds Black Collection, Licorice Opaques, Basic Brad Assortment, Fresh Shapes Dimensional Elements, Monograms Dimensional Elements, Color Ready Alphabets - Bold
TOOLS: Corner Rounder, Cutting Knife, Piercing Tool Kit and Sanding Kit

First sneak peek at new Autumn/Winter Products

2010-07-21T14:51:00.000-07:00

Over the next few weeks, I look forward to giving to tid-bits and sneak peeks at the new products that will be available in Close to my Heart's new 2010 Autumn/Winter Idea book. It will be available to you and for ordering September 1st. However, I was priviledged to get some new product early to create and play around with to share with other consulants at convention. It was just too much fun!!

Let me tell you words cannot describe how excited I was to learn I was going to be teaching about our new mini-album - the Mix & Mingle Album at Close to my Heart's annual Convention! I had so much fun coming up with some 'unique' and 'creative' ways to use this the very versatile product!

The first little peek I am going to share with you is the darling 'pocket calendar' I created with this mini-album. I immediately knew the 8 page (5 chipboard and 3 acrylic) album would create a great calendar with cute little pockets which could hold a little card to list reoccuring dates I needed to remember...that I could pop in my purse. However, I am a girl who LOVES my embellishments...so by the time I finished my creation process it was pretty clear this not-so-little guy will now be sitting on my desk. :)

All supplies used are Close to my Heart:
*NEW* My Creations Mix & Mingle Mini Album
STAMPS: Retired Number
FONT: Tall Pen Font from Expressive Font #1
PAPER: Bella Level 2 Paper Pack and My Stickease
INKS: Hollyhock and Desert Sand
DOODLES: Just Blooms Paper Flowers, Pewter Designer Brads, Basic and Autumn Brad Assortment, Hollyhock and Creme Brule Ribbon Rounds, Colonial White Grosgrain Ribbon, Foundry Tabs and Basic Buttons

'Splendid Summer' Mini Album Workshop

2010-07-19T15:21:00.000-07:00

Splendid Summer Mini-Album Workshop

Saturday, August 7th 1-5pm

My home in Surprise, AZ

With my 'mojo bank' still in the 'red' from the past few months of events...I was overjoyed when the 'fabulously artsy' Tresa Black recently displayed some of her fantastic artwork in the form of altering Close to my Heart's My Creations 3-Ring Mini Album! Of course....I jumped right on the bandwagon of 'stamplifting' this little gem from her and this is my version of her 'twist' on this album. It will be my August 7th workshop and if you live in the area (even if you are a consultant) and would like to attend...please contact me! Otherwise, enjoy checking out what I did with Tresa's fantastic design!

Christmas in July....

2010-07-16T17:09:00.001-07:00

My oh-so-favorite MIB (man in brown) brought me the best present today!! As compensation for teaching at Close to my Heart's National Convention in Washington, D.C. last week...I rec'd one of each of the new product bundles. This is about $800 in new toys!! WHOA!!

I am having so much fun just looking at it all! (As my husband just sat and laughed at me as I oohed and ahhed as I pulled it all out - arranged it - and then took photos of it!) I can't wait to actually PLAY with it!!

Plus...I still have my prize (one of every new accessory in the Fall/Winter Idea Book) for winning 3rd place in the Album Contest still due to arrive.....oh happy, happy day!!

Patience is a virtue...

2010-07-14T16:40:00.000-07:00

Yes, yes...my faithful blogger readers...I know, I know...I have now been home for a few days from convention and I know you are fervently searching for all those posts I promised! However, if you will remember in my previous post where I talked about the months of preparations I did for this convention? Well, upon my return - the home and family I also neglected for those few months have now demanded that I actually do some of my 'first job' of taking care of our home, (the size and quantitiy of dust bunnies under my son's bed are going to begin to give him nighmares!) paying attention to them, serving them a meal (that didn't get delievered to the door - come in a paper sack - come in a wrapper or with a side of fries) and actually laundering some of their clothes. (Yea...I know - the nerve, right??) They just don't seem to understand I have returned will all these new toys and ideas bursting at the seams that I am just dying to use?? Sigh...

So while I spend some time satisfying my family's 'selfish needs' here are a few convention highlights to enjoy in the meantime....I promise your patience will be rewarded very soon!

We stayed at the beautiful Gaylord Hotel and Convention Center in D.C.

Here are the posh beds....I got to sleep in but didn't have to make! Oh, and you should have heard the 'evil' little giggle I let out and the delight I felt when I threw my towel on the floor and knew I wasn't the one who was going to have to pick it up!

Here are a couple thousand of my fellow CTMH consultant sisters waiting to go in for the first general session - who all have the same 'addiction' I do!
Here I am visiting with one of my swappin' buddies Lisa Stenz. She claims it's a honor to swap with me....but let me tell you the pleasure is all mine!! I stalk her blog and 'stamplift' from her often!! So go check out her blog...and I assure you that you will now end up surfin' her blog more often than you do mine!

And last, but certianly not least - I was thrilled and delighted to take 3rd place in the Album Contest. (I promise pictures of my album to come soon...I need to have CTMH return my album to me so I can actually take photos of it to post! Let's just say I am a girl who works best in the 11th hour...I didn't quite leave myself enough time to photo it before absolutely haveing to put it in the mail.) Here I am with Tracy Mason, the Grand Prize winner in a picture I stole from her facebook post - sorry for the size! She is also someone who I have admired from afar and was so honored to be able to celebrate our victories with her and her fantastic friends that evening. She is one ridiculously talented lady....and hysterical to boot! I hesitate to even give you the link to her blog....'cause now I will never get you back!

Well, that just about wraps it up for now. I know I have asked this of you before...but hang in there with me folks! Tons of great stuff to be coming your way very soon!

7 days and 7 Hours....

2010-06-30T23:41:00.000-07:00

Until I can finally come up for air!! This is when Close to my Heart's annual convention in Washington, D.C. will begin and I can finally sit back and enjoy the fruits of my many months of labor!

I need to thank some of you for the lovely words of encouragement...or the emails checking to see where I have been...or checking on me to make sure everything is okay. Yes, everything is great! I have just been one busy, busy girl!

In the last two months I have been swamped with all things CLOSE TO MY HEART! Much to my delight...I was accepted to teach at the upcoming convention. Which means many, many hours and late nights of creating fabulous artwork - I am not allowed to show you! For the second year in a row, I was also invited to donate a piece of artwork for the silent auction which will be held at convention with the proceeds to go to our Operation Smile charity....again many hours of creativity and late nights....I am not allowed to show you. Oh, and let's not forget the entire album I created to submit for the album contest! No rules about not showing this one to you...but I am still keeping this one under wraps! :)

So please accept my apologies for the lack of posting lately. It is not that I haven't created all kinds of goodies...I am just not allowed to show you!! I appriciate all the love and concern which has come my way lately! And I thank you so much for hanging in here with me! I promise your commiment will be well rewarded very, very soon! I will be coming back from convention in 12 days just busting will all kinds of new ideas....artwork....a new catalog....and an OPEN CALENDAR with all kinds of time to be able to share it all!!

Unexcused absence...

2010-04-29T09:36:00.001-07:00

Yes, yes…I know…I have been totally absent from my blog. Does someone know where I can find a 36 hour day??

Well, my faithful blog-followers your patience will now be rewarded! I am here to announce our new Summer Idea Book will be released in only two days!! It has all kinds of fabulous new papers and products to make your papercrafting endeavors...faster, simpler and easier! Starting Saturday, May 1st you can visit my website and start shopping! Want a copy of your own? Contact me today to inquire about getting one!
I have been a busy, busy girl playing with all my new products and I am here to share a bit of that with you today. Have you noticed how big clouds are in papercrafting right now? Keeping with the times...Close to my Heart now offers the most darling cloud paper in our new Splendor My Reflections Paper Pack. Check out all these great creations I was able to make with just one paper pack and a few of our new accessories.

All supplies used are Close to my Heart:
STAMPS: Over the Rainbow, Hot Diggity, Thank You
PAPER: Splendor My Reflections Level 2
INKS: Goldrush, Moonstruck, Heavenly Blue, Topiary
DOODLES: Crème Brule and Heavenly Blue Ribbon Rounds, Summer and Autumn Craft Buttons, Just Blooms paper flowers, Autumn Brad Assortments, Splendor Designer Brads, Colonial White Mini-Medley, Irresistables – Pizzazz and Lots of Dots

Well, better late than never...

2010-02-18T16:11:00.000-08:00

Although Valentine's Day was days ago...and the heart shapped chocolate boxes around my house are now empty skeletons and the sugar-high has faded...I still wanted to take a few moments and share my Valentine's Day goodies with you.

First, here are the darling little suckers I made for my children to take as their Valentine's:

They are made from mini candy canes. You just place two mini candy canes in the shape of a heart on a piece of wax paper an fill the center cavity with some melted candy making chocoate (I of course chose white chocolate for these suckers). I purchased an inexpensive squeeze bottle from the craft store along with the chocolate to make the process go quickly and easy! Once I filled the center with chocolate I placed a sucker stick in the warm chocolate, dabbed on a few multi-colored sprinkles and the let them set up. In about 15 min or so you have these darling suckers that I baged and tagged...and ta-da!!

Then, as much as I love mint and chocolate together, I felt as though I wanted to do something a little different for all the adults in my life who I wanted to share a little love with. So what did I do? I baked! One of my newfound hobbies (like I needed another!) is to do cake decorating...so a spinoff from that is to do these cute little sugar cookies with all kinds of fun pipping on them.

When it comes to making homemade goodies...it's all about the presentation. So I made sure to bag them up nice and place a cute little tag on them....and ta-da....YUM!

Crazy for Caboodle!!

2010-02-05T10:40:00.001-08:00

Is this not the most adorable thing you have ever seen?? Even I can’t get over how darling our new Caboodle My Reflections Paper Pack in pretty pastels of Sorbet, Sweet Leaf and Crystal Blue…it’s just so scrumptious, I want to eat it up!! I used this great new paper pack to create this little card-keeper box. Thanks to the inspiration of Vicki Wizniuk!!

I will be offering several workshops this month to teach you how to make this darling little gift! Contact me today if you are interested in attending!

Supplies Used:

X7121B My Reflections Caboodle Level 2 Paper Pack

A1102 A Posy Stamp Set

D1361 Thank You Stamp Set

Z2164 Sorbet Ink Pad

Z2117 Crystal Blue Ink Pad

Z2153 Sweet Leaf Ink Pad

Z1024 Envelope Flats

Z1126 Colonial White Designer Ribbon Rounds

Fabulously 40

2010-02-02T18:22:00.000-08:00

Wow, where do the years go? It seems just like yesterday I met my hubby - a strapping young gent of only 18years old. He said some funny jokes, made me giggle and swept me off my feet! Here it is 22 years later and we are still like two teens in love. (Ask my kids...they'll tell you how much they groan when we snuggle!) Well, today my sweetheart turns 40 and I was so delighted to make him this card (with mushy sentiments inside!) and now I am happy to share it with you!

YOU ROCK!

2010-01-13T09:23:00.000-08:00

Here is my first installment of artwork created with new products from the New Spring 2010 Idea book.

Supplies I used included:

You Rock Level 2 Paper Packet

Star Power Stamp Set

Wishing Star Stamp Set

Rockin' Top Coats

Outdoor Denim Mini-Medley Collections

Dimensional Elements - Simple Alphabet

Dimensional Elements - Flurry

Dimensional Elements - Fresh Shapes

Irresistibles Lots of Dots Color Ready Alphabet

Create-a-shade Pearl Paint

Clear Sparkles

To inquire about these or any of the other great products we carry....contact me today!

It's the most wonderful time of the year.....

2010-01-06T08:08:00.000-08:00

Yes, yes, I know the holidays are over. Although we had a wonderful holiday season...I am glad all the hustle and bustle is over, the decorations are put away and the onlsaught of toys that have been all over my house for days finally have new homes....and the kids are finally back in school!! (Ahhh...peace and quiet!) But the biggest reason it's a great time of the year is....the new Close to my Heart Spring 2010 is here!! New Products! New Ideas! New Inspiration! It really doesn't get any better than this....

To see this new beauty and all the great new goodies check out my website at http://www.stampinallday.myctmh.com/. You can view the catalog page by page (with zoom) for yourself by clicking on the Products link or search by catagory in the Shop Online link. Even better...call or email me and ask me how you can get your very own copy!

Now I know your next thought is....."Where's all the great artwork and workshops with the new products??" Well, you don't have long to wait! I am putting the finishing touches on upcoming workshops, taking photos of some of the great new goodies I have made with new products and all this wonderful information will be arriving in your inboxes soon!!

Wait....what's that you say?? You are not on my mailing list?? Well then, you better email me right away and make sure you don't miss another great update!

The "Joy" of Christmas....

2009-12-19T18:28:00.000-08:00

Whew! A little later than I would have liked...but my Christmas Cards are now finally done! Here are my creations...two versions due to accessory limitations. But I made 60 of these suckers!!

If I don't make it back before Christmas...have a VERY MERRY ONE!

Wedded Bliss....

2009-11-10T18:24:00.000-08:00

Well, after months and months of planning...tons of shopping trips....multiple brainstorming sessions.....and HOURS AND HOURS of invitation making, wedding favor wrapping, centerpiece making and last, but certainly not least....CAKE BAKING and DECORATING....my baby sister's wedding came and went this past weekend in a blink!

Thankfully, there are lots and lots of fabulous photos to let us know all of our hard work and efforts paid off to give her one of the most fabulous weddings I have ever been to....with one of the most beautiful brides I have ever seen (Okay, so I am a bit biased!)

Here are some photos from the day....

It was a beautiful outdoor wedding overlooking the golf course at the Tuscany Falls Country Club at Pebble Creek.
Mr. and Mrs. Jeremy Tan with Maid of Honor and Best Man Mr. and Mrs. Rich Strozewski

Here they are cutting into my masterpiece! :) (It only stung for a second!)

Here is a close-up of my lovely 5 tier, fondant covered cake with 33 handmade sugarpaste orchids. One of my biggest labors of love (well, next to my children that is!) I estimate there is probably about 100+ hours that was loveingly put into this cake! Don't think I haven't reminded Katie several times over already how much this cake would have cost her! :)

Well, it was wonderful planning and preparing and looking forward to it....and now I am glad that it is over! :) I am so over playing with sugar and flour and look forward to posting some new papercrafting creations soon!

It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas....

2009-10-04T10:38:00.000-07:00

Well, all over my craft desk that is! It seems every year my holiday paper crafting starts earlier and earlier! This year, I think it started even before the official first day of fall! Man, it’s pretty bad when I am creating holiday projects and the stores haven’t even starting carrying Halloween goodies yet! But in order to make sure I have lots of lovely little creations for all my workshop hostesses I have to get started this early!

So in keeping with my post-a-palooza, the next project I am sharing is this lovely little creation for an upcoming workshop which happens to be a Christmas mini-album!

Supplies Used:

X7085B Everlasting Level 2 Paper Pack
X7085C Everlasting My Stickease
X1404 True Fit Folios
D1366 Holiday Trinkets Stamp Set
E1009 Building Block Alphabet Stamp Set
Z2116 Cranberry Exclusive Inks
Z2118 Desert Sand Exclusive Inks
Z1103 Cranberry Grosgrain Ribbon
Z1126 Colonial White Ribbon Rounds
Z1219 Essential Brad Assortment
Z1285 Holiday Buttons
Z1084 Olive Waxy Flax
Z1086 Cranberry Waxy Flax

World Cardmaking Day

2009-10-03T16:14:00.000-07:00

In honor of World Card Making Day I have decided to share some of the Christmas Cards I created with our new Jingle Paper pack. As I have mentioned before, I LOVE THIS PAPER PACK! Not only is it so versatile for other papercrafting besides Christmas...it can also make such dramatically different styles and color familes of cards - all in the same paper pack! Take a look at these two cards....both of which you could be making at my upcoming Christmas Card Workshop on October 17th. Want more info on my workshops? Visit my website at www.stampinallday.myctmh.com or contact me!

Supplies used:

X7115B Jingle paper pack
C1371 Holiday Jingle Stamp Set
Z1126 Colonial White Ribbon Rounds
Z1104 Sparkles
Z2166 Tulip Stamp Pad

Supplies Used:

X7115B Jingle paper pack
D1366 Holiday Trinkets Stamp Set
Z1220 Twinkle Brad Assortment
Z1151 3-D Foam Tape

Invitation inundation....

2009-10-02T10:45:00.000-07:00

So it was with great pleasure that Katie (my little sister) allowed me the opportunity to make her wedding invitations. After scouring the many, many sample books at the store she quickly discovered the style and type of invitations she really wanted were better suited for a ‘champagne budget’ and she’s working with something closer to a ‘tap water budget’!! Shocked and dismayed at the prices on these very simple invitations we were seeing, I knew I could make them with no problem and at a fraction of the cost! So many brainstorming and collaboration sessions later, we came up with this final product. This is a 5x7 invitation with a creative side-fold, wax-sealed flap design. When you open the invitation, there is a pocket on the left hand side which held the rsvp card and small additional information card. All the traditional wedding information was centered on the inside. If you don’t know Katie…she has impeccable taste! So it was my goal to make sure her handmade invitations didn’t look ‘handmade’. One of the things I am most happy with is the beautiful metallic cardstock with matching envelopes I was able to locate on the internet. (Gotta love Google!) After many months, lots and lots of hours and a few friends over to help with the assembly ….75 of these beauties were finally mailed out a few weeks ago….

As soon as I was finally finished with the wedding invitations…it was already time to think about the bridal shower invites. So back to the brainstorming we went. Katie took some time to go through my CTMH catalogs…picked a stamp set and a color scheme and I was off and running. I was also really pleased with how this little 8x3-1/2 beauty came out! With the exception of the small flower and the black metallic cardstock (same used on her invitations) all the other supplies used were from Close to my Heart! Take note I even used some of the paper from our new Jingle Level 2 paper pack…that is a Christmas paper pack! (When CTMH released the new catty and this new spunky colored Christmas paper was in there – I was really disappointed. I was really hoping for a more traditional paper pack.) But this paper pack is so versatile!! I am now in LOVE! I have done tons of artwork with it already and plan to do much, much more! So with that being said…check out this great invitation and come back again soon to check out all the great art I will be posting with the new Jingle paper pack!

Thanks for visiting today!

Finally coming up for air....

2009-10-01T16:17:00.001-07:00

WOW! This past month has just been a non-stop, whirlwind month! My oldest baby girl turned 16 this month and we had a terrific party for her! I even made her two-tier, fondant covered, pink floral cake! I had a fantastic Open House at the beginning of this month, completed 75 wedding invites and 30 bridal shower invites, 5 more workshops and a Vegas scrapbooking retreat weekend later….and the month was gone! Whew! That tuckered me out just listing it...I can't believe I lived it! So I apologize for my absence as I was shocked myself to see it’s been a whole month since I have posted on my blog! It’s not from lack of items to share…just lack of time! So hold on….’cause I plan on having a post-a-palooza in the next few days and weeks sharing all the great goodies I have and those which have yet to come! So I hope to see you back again soon!

So, to begin my 'post-a-palooza' I am going to go back to the beginning of the month! Here is the Sweet 16 birthday party invitation I made for my daughter's party.

Okay, so not that I need to add another creative hobby to my list...but lately I have been having a blast exploring cake decorating! I attended a cake decorating class with my mother-in-law back in August and I am now hooked! So here is the very first two-tier cake I have ever made! It is covered in pink fondant frosting with handmade sugar paste flowers. Yes, I did....I made every single one of those flowers by hand and then attached each and every one individually to the cake. It was slightly bitter-sweet when we finally cut into it! :)

Okie dokie! That finished off my first post of the month! I am off to schedule other posts for the rest of this week and beyond! So hopefully I will see you back tomorrow!

Bouncin' right along....

2009-09-01T00:00:00.000-07:00

Welcome to the next instalment of the Stamp of the Month blog hop! This month we have 71 consultants featuring artwork on their blogs with September's Stamp of the Month Treasures. If you have come here from Paige's blog, then you are on the right track! However, if my blog is your first stop...then you might want to go back to Jena's blog and start from the beginning.

Here are my sweet and simple creations with Treasures....

Supplies Used:

D1375 Treasures Stamp of the Month
X5751 Sorbet Cardstock
1273 Desert Sand Cardstock
1388 Colonial White Cardstock
Z891 Versamark Ink Pad
Z902 Spring Soft Chalks
Z2118 Desert Sand Ink Pad
Z578 Corner Rounder
Z1123 Sorbet Ribbon Round Collection
Z1218 Metal Brad Assortment
Z1096 Neutral Embroidery Floss Assortment

Now "Hop" on over to Sherry's Blog to see her work! Be sure to visit all the Consultants at their Blogs to get some great crafting ideas and other fun ideas! Remember, the September SOTM is only available until August 30th! Contact me today to see how you can get this stamp set at a discount or even free!

Creation for a cause...

2009-08-05T13:04:00.000-07:00

A few weeks back, I was given a very special assignment from Close to my Heart. I was very honored to be included in a group of very talented consultants who were invited to do a piece of artwork for a silent auction to benefit Operation Smile. I didn't have much time to create a one-of-a-kind, 'over-the-top' piece of artwork...but was pretty pleased with the final product I sent!

The silent auction was held last weekend during Close to my Heart's Leadership convention and raised over $5300 to benefit Operation Smile! I am so pleased to say that will help over 20 children receive a much needed operation to help give them a beautiful new smile!

I decided to do a piece of home decor artwork rather than creat a mini-album or the like. I used a 12x12 canvas and created a family picture frame. All the products I used were from Close to my Heart with the exception of the canvas and stand.

Click here to learn more about Operation Smile or how you can help.

August Blog Hop!

2009-08-01T00:00:00.000-07:00

Welcome to the Stamp of the Month Blog Hop! We will be featuring August's SOTM, D1352-It's Your Day a set of 26 stamps. If you have come here from Dawn'sBlog, you are on the right path! If this is your first stop, you may want to go back to Jena's Blog and start from the beginning!

This month we have 66 Close To My Heart Consultants sharing their creations using this stamp set and other great CTMH products on their blogs. This is so simple to do - just click on the link at the end of the post on each blog to move to the next one! The sit back and get ready to be inspired!

Here are my two creations using only Close to my Heart Product:

Supplies Used:

D1352 It's Your Day August Stamp of the Month

X7112B Animal Cookies Level 2 paper pack

Z270 White Grosgrain Ribbon

Z1133 White Ricrac

Z1052 Ricrack Collection

Z1155 Clear Buttons

Z1111 Summer Carnival Brads

Z2166Tulip Exclusive Ink Pad

Z2150 Sunflower Exclusive Ink Pad

Z2119 Dutch Blue Exclusive Ink Pad

Z2113 Clover Meadow Exclusive Ink Pad

Z1294 Sanding Kit

Now "Hop" on over to Beth's Blog to see her work! Be sure to visit all the Consultants at their Blogs to get some great crafting ideas and other fun ideas! Remember, the August SOTM is only available until August 30th! Contact me today to see how you can get this stamp set at a discount or even free!

If you get lost along the way or find links that aren't working, here is a complete list of all the talented ladies who are participating:

Jena DeVries
http://www.livelovelaughscrapbook.blogspot.com/
Kristie Horness-Herdener
http://www.goofyscrapper.blogspot.com/
Carla Ironside
http://www.carlacreates.blogspot.com/
Deb Young
http://www.scrapbookczar.blogspot.com/
Alanna Moses
http://www.damoses.blogspot.com/
Paige Dolecki
http://www.paigespaperparadise.blogspot.com/
Wendy Kessler
http://www.myscrapbookingblog.com/
Heather Painchaud
http://www.twindragonflydesigns.blogspot.com/
Helen Onulak
http://www.hookedonstamping.com/
Barbra Otten
http://barbraotten.blogspot.com/
Haley Dyer
http://www.inkyscrapper.blogspot.com/
Nona Davenport
http://www.nonapearl.blogspot.com/
Michelle Robinson
http://www.amaizenbluelady.typepad.com/
Cindy Leek
http://www.paperspadsandpictures.blogspot.com/
Melissa Laverty
http://www.fancymelissa.blogspot.com/
Katy Donaldson
http://www.scrappinkaty.blogspot.com/
Amy McVey
http://www.clearlystamping.blogspot.com/
Tammy Lea Pinchard
http://www.creativeimpressions-pinchme.blogspot.com/
Leslie Markland
http://pandascrapper.blogspot.com/
Judy Burger
http://makingtimeformemories.blogspot.com/
Laurie R Newton
http://scrapsfromthebeach.blogspot.com/
Kami Welter
http://www.scrappin4memories.blogspot.com/
Tracy Oleksak
http://www.mamaolie.blogspot.com/
Karen Norman
http://www.gettinscrappywithit.blogspot.com/
Chris Shouse
http://www.houseostamps.wordpress.com/
Cibele Glazer
http://www.flowerfoot.blogspot.com/
Debra Van Patten
http://memoriesoftheheartbydeb.blogspot.com/
Terrie Dodd
http://www.my-life-in-real-time.blogspot.com/
Jamia Bankhead
http://www.papermadnessinc.blogspot.com/
Anne Beck
http://www.anniemuses.blogspot.com
Jennifer Patrick
http://www.roxybonds-scrappin.blogspot.com/
Laurie Levnik
http://www.creationsbylaurie.blogspot.com/
Lori Miller
http://www.clearlyfromtheheart.blogspot.com/
Brae Montgomery
http://thebrae-er.blogspot.com/
Dawn Ross
http://www.iamahappystamper.blogspot.com/
Dawn Slipcevic
http://dawnscrapsalot.blogspot.com/
Barbara Harris
http://www.paper-creations117.blogspot.com/
Carol Taggio
http://craftycarol55.blogspot.com/
Jill Lucas
http://scrapwench.blogspot.com/
Chris Green
http://www.createwithchris.blogspot.com/
Nancy Ball
http://www.ballisticdesign.blogspot.com/
Dawn Heuft
http://www.stamptildawn.blogspot.com/
Kelly Triggs
http://www.stampinallday.blogspot.com/
Beth Naumann
http://www.bethscreativeblock.blogspot.com/
Antoinette Herrin
http://www.godblessyourart.blogspot.com/
Jessica Booth
http://jessicabooth.blogspot.com/
Jen Rubio
http://www.jenrubio.blogspot.com/
Misty Jackson
http://www.misstscraps.blogspot.com/
Adeline E. Brill
http://adeline-brill.blogspot.com/
Lori Leng
http://www.pinkcloudscrappers.blogspot.com/
Pam Klassen
http://eimmap.blogspot.com/
Pamela OConnor
http://www.cherishyourmemories.blogspot.com/
Jennifer Royal
http://www.craftroyalty.blogspot.com/
Caren Goldsein
http://www.scrappycaren.blogspot.com/
Shannon Pelletier
http://www.mycolorfulworldinvt.blogspot.com/
Sherry Thompson
http://www.picturespatternsandpaper.blogspot.com/
Maricar Harris
http://www.maricarharris.blogspot.com/
Traci Godbee
http://createwithtraci.blogspot.com/
Laura Dame
http://www.thecroppersconnection.blogspot.com/
Miranda Kurz
http://www.scrampinwithmiranda.com/
Leisa Hubley
http://www.bigredscraps.blogspot.com/
Julia Menssen
http://www.ralphandjulia.blogspot.com/
Jan Moxey
http://scrapandstamp4ever.blogspot.com/
Jody Gustafson
http://www.cre8nmemories.blogspot.com/

Sweet Baby

2009-07-21T17:50:00.000-07:00

Today I am sharing my latest adventures in putting fabric on my cards. I made this 6x6 Sweet Baby card with fabric, lace and ribbon. It was a real challenge but really rewarding working with such textural items! What is hard to tell in the picture is the center of the heart has fabric in it and is puffed up a bit. I even placed the rub-on directly onto the fabric.

I was so excited to give it to her...that I forgot to take a picture of it before I sent it! So she was kind enough to take this picture for me and send it to me so I could share it with you all!

Make a wish....

2009-07-12T16:19:00.000-07:00

Just a quick little gift card holder/birthday card to share today....

Priceless Memories...

2009-07-05T13:28:00.000-07:00

Thought I would quickly share some artwork of Close to My Heart's new Memory Keeper Box. This is the next project we will be making at my next July workshop.

All Supplies Used are from Close to My Heart:

Z1116 My Creations Memory Keeper
X7105B Emporium Level 2 paper Packet
Z1033 Just Bloom Big Pinks paper flowers
z819 Window Charms Circles
z1043 Dimensional Elements Bookplates
z1040 Antiqued Copper Brads

You can visit my website to purchase any of these items or more anytime you like!

Hoppin' alone....

2009-07-01T11:04:00.000-07:00

Well, this morning I have come to my blog to post the next addition to the CTMH Stamp of the Month Blog Hop...only to find I seem I have been dropped from the list. (sniff...) It seems I didn't read my emails carefully and follow through like I should have. But rather than deprive you of some fantastic artwork, from some very talented ladies, with this great new set...I have decided to hop alone. :)

Here is a card I have made with the July Stamp of the Month "You've Got Flair".

Now, to continue on your road of great artwork, you can start here at Jena's blog, and you will still be able to enjoy the hop and see all the great artwork 43 other consultants made for their blogs. Be sure and follow the links from one blog to the next in order to not miss anything!

Remember, the July SOTM is only available until July 31st! Contact me at jnktriggs@cox.net (or click here) to see how you can get this stamp set at a discount or even free!

Abundant Awards!

2009-06-17T12:29:00.000-07:00

You like me! You really, really like me! I just disovered that in the last few days I have been awarded more blog awards! Thank you so much ladies! You don't know what it means to me to know you come to my blog for inspiration!

On June 16th I rec'd another Lemonade Stand Award from Amber at Korny Scrapping. Thanks so much for the nice comments! You can also check out her blog to see her fabulous teacher's gift! Nothing brings me more joy than to know I have inspired others!

I also rec'd a new award...the "One Lovely Blog" award from Carla over at Carla Creates.

Since I have already nominated others for blog awards already...I am just going to give a 'shout-out' to these two great ladies for their flattering awards!

Check back soon as I will hopefully find some time to post some great artwork.

Now go check out their blogs!

Looks yummy enough to eat!

2009-06-03T10:12:00.000-07:00

Today, my baby sister celebrates her 30th birthday! Happy Birthday Katie! So I wanted to create a very special gift for her.

Inspired by Tresa Black (yes, you have seen me mention her 'fabulously artsy' name before) I created this darling little cupcake as part of her birthday present. The gift bag to give this little goodie to Katie in - is all my creation. I really wanted to give it to her in a way that would display it really nicely...I just started scorin' and folding a transparency until I came to this final product. I am really pleased with the way the whole thing turned out.

So many thanks to Tresa for her fabulous inspiration!

'My cup runith over'....

2009-05-31T23:53:00.000-07:00

I have just discovered I have been awarded another Lemonade Stand Award. I am so flattered by the lovely comments about me on Helen Onulak's website. **Blushing** Thanks so much Helen! Now go check out her fantastic artwork on her site!

June SOM Blog Hop!!

2009-05-31T23:17:00.000-07:00

Welcome to our Stamp of the Month Blog Hop! We will be featuring June's Stamp of the Month, which is Tender Tags, a set of 15 stamps. If you have come here from Jamie's Blog, you are on the right path! If this is your first stop, you may want to go back to Jena's Blog and start from the beginning!

This month we have over 40 Close To My Heart Consultants sharing their creations using this month's SOTM and other great CTMH products on their blogs. This is simple to do - just click on the link at the end of the post on each blog to move to the next one! Here we go!

This is my 4-1/4 x 5-1/2 card created with all Close to my Heart Products.
June SOM Tender Tags, Life Delights Paper Pack, White Daisy Grosgrain Ribbon, White Daisy Paper Flowers, Winter Buttons, Winter Cozy Mini Medly Accents, Winter Cozy Brads

******************

Now "Hop" on over to Lori's Blog to see her work! Be sure to visit all the Consultants at their blogs to find some additional creative ideas using this stamp set! Remember, the June SOTM is only available from June1-30, 2009! Click here to visit my website to shop online and purchase any or all of these products.

Teacher Appriciation....

2009-05-20T22:45:00.000-07:00

Here is a little gift I have made for my son's kindergarten teacher. I am really looking forward to giving it to her since she is also a scrapbooker and will appriciate the time and effort that has gone into such a gift!

All the supplies I used to make this darling little album come from Close To My Heart. Most importantly, this new paper pack Animal Cookies! I have just loved creating all kinds of goodies with this new 'yummy' paper pack! With it's rich, vibrant primary colors it was a 'must' for creating an elementary style mini-album.

Z1141 My Creations 3-Ring Binder
X7112B My Reflections Level 2 Animal Cookies Paper Pack
Z1145 Heartfelt - Whimsy (Felt embelishments)
Also some of our great brads, buttons, windowcharms, ribbon and more went into this little gem!

There is also a poem on the inside cover:
The school year’s finally over,
Many thanks for all you do
This gift will make it easy
To record it for review.

Choose your favorite photos
The ones you think are neat,
Just add a little adhesive,
Place your pictures, neat!

Add some special memories,
Of moments dear to you
Along with your cherished photos,
That’s all you need to do!

This album is my thank you,
I know how much you care,
I hope this will help you remember
A year beyond compare!

Enjoy!

Wishes do come true....

2009-05-19T15:35:00.000-07:00

I am so excited to announce that the long-awaited release of our new card idea program Wishes is now available!

Much to my delight, this book was not scheduled to be released until mid-June, however 'wishes do come true' and this incredible new program is now available for order!! Since I know you have not had a chance to see it yet...let me just tell you it is fantastic! This beautiful, spiral bound, hard-cover book had 109 brand new patterns, which includes three complete “card workshops.” These “card workshops” are specifically designed to help you make bulk cards faster, simpler, easier. It also emphasizes unique ROUND card patterns and a template CD to make these circles spectacular. Imagine the fun of receiving a cool, round card! Even better, imagine the fun of creating one!

So contact me today to see about treating yourself to your very own copy today!

My very FIRST Blog Award!

2009-05-18T14:50:00.000-07:00

THE LEMONADE STAND

Much to my shock....I rec'd my very first blog award today....the Lemonade Stand Award! Thanks so much for Karen Pederson for bestowing upon me my first award (and the biggest smile on my face!) I am so flattered that she would think to put my among the very prestigious list of ladies she chose to award.

The Lemonade Stand Award
Rules for this Award:
*Comment on this blog
*Cut and Paste this award logo and use it on your own blog
*Nominate 5-10 blogs you feel show great attitude and gratitude
*Link to your nominees within your blog post
*Comment on their blogs to let them know they rec'd the award
*Link back to the person who gave you the award to show your appriciation!

So, with all that being said...below are my list of nominees who inspire me everyday - some with creativity, some with kindness, some who inspire me to try to be a better person and all who are willing to take the time to post phenominal artwork to their blog to share with others. These are all beautiful women....inside and out....who also happen to make some beautiful art!!

Lisa - Lisa's Creative Corner
Jennifer - Just4FunCrafts
Tresa - Fabulously Artsy
Vicki - Wizard's Hangout
Bren - The Inspiration Institute
Tracey - Tracey Mason's Studio
Rachele - The Ink Boutique
Nona - Nona's Pearls of Wisdom
Karen - Karen Pederson

So check out their blogs....I promise you won't be disapointed!!

Karen, thanks again for such a honor and really makin' my day!!

A little sneak peek....

2009-04-30T08:28:00.000-07:00

Just a few more days until I can release the new Close to my Heart 2009 Summer Catalog! But to keep you going until then...here is a sneak peek at some artwork I have made with the new paper pack Back Country and some of our new Dimensional Elements!

Check back soon as I will have so much more to share with you!

Sugar and Spice...

2009-03-16T10:17:00.000-07:00

"Where have you been?" You ask? Well, I have been a very busy girl!

Last week my kids were home and off school for Spring break. Don't get me wrong, I love my kiddos...but I was very happy to send them back off to school today! As if this wasn't enough to create chaos around my house...we all decided to pass around a lovely little flu bug that took it's toll on all of us one-by-one.

As for my crafting world, I have been up to my ears in 'sugar and spice'. I have been working this darling (if I do say so myself) baby shower invite for my sister. She is hosting a shower for her best friend. We pulled inspiration for these invites from the decor of the nursery for this soon-to-arrive little girl. I had a lot of fun designing these beauties...however, after finishing 36 of these...I am happy to be done and off to a new project!

Happy Monday to you all!!

First Place Friends!!

2009-03-01T10:33:00.000-08:00

I am delighted to announce that I won! My 'cheeky' 12x12 layout took First Place in the scrapbooking contest. Even better....my 'bestie' took First Place in the card contest with her darling acordian fold house card. Here we are having the best time with our awards and entry items.

It has also been my tradition to always get a picture with Jeanette each time I win a contest. I encouraged Tiff to do the same...as she is just as fabulously creative and I am sure this will not be the last time she wins!

Sweet Cheeks!

2009-02-26T14:20:00.000-08:00

This is my contest entry for the layout contest at the CTMH Regional Celebration. The requirements for this entry was to use our new Fancy Cuts Botanicals.

Love U!

2009-02-26T14:02:00.000-08:00

Just taking a quick moment to share my contest entry for the Close to My Heart Regional Celebration card contest. The requirement was to use our fabulous new White Daisy Mini-Medley accents! I was able to include 3 of the 4 types of embelishments that come in the pack. My creative twist was to cut apart some of the darling little flowers and creating the lacey detail on the card!

Wish me luck!!

Star-studded Valentine's Day!!

2009-02-14T17:08:00.000-08:00

I would have to say this has been the best Valentine's Day!! My husband and I were invited by some his business associates to attend Dwyane Wade's Charity Luncheon today. It was to benefit his Wade's World Organization. We knew we would probably see lots of NBA stars....but we were absolutely star-struck by some of the fantastic celebrites we were fortunate enough to meet today! What made this star-packed event even better was the very small guest list of about 150 people. So it was fairly easy to walk up and meet people at the luncheon. Here are just a few people we met today....

I bumped into my ol' friend and customer Jordan Sparks! She was the guest performer today and sang a new song from her new up-coming album! It was so nice to see her and catch up with her. Since she won Idol...she really doesn't have much time to scrapbook with me anymore! Sniff...

Here is my husband meeting and speaking with MUHAMMAD ALI and his wife!! WOW!!

Here is my hubby (giddy as a school girl) meeting Larry Fitzgerald!

Other celebs in attendance (we weren't lucky enough to meet) were Jerry Colangelo, Chris Paul, Tom Chambers, Chris Tucker, many other sports celebrities....wow, just too many to think of and mention!

This was a once-in-a-lifetime event and was just the most perfect Valentine's Day! Especially having lunch at the very posh Sanctuary Camelback Mountain Resort!

Hope you all have had a great Valentine's Day too!

Valentine Goodie Bags

2009-02-13T10:00:00.000-08:00

Here are the Valentine goodies I will be giving away to my kiddos' teachers, my neighbors and my family. They are little heart pockets made by weaving two strips of cardstock (8-3/4 x 2-1/2) with rounded edges together to get the shape of the heart. The strips are then folded in 1/2 and cut up the center to a length of 2-3/4 to create the strips you actually weave. I also covered the cardstock with Close to My Heart's beautiful That's Amore B&T and sewed around the edges for stability before I weaved the strips together. I scored the matching ribbon at Michael's this week...it was on sale. (Gotta love a sale!) I filled the hearts with some chocolate goodies, bagged them up and tied a little tag and a tube of M&Ms to them. I am just so delighted they came out as well as they did!! I got the little tubes from one of my favorite little websites...www.just4funcrafts.com

Happy Family Pocket Mini-Album

2009-02-11T10:27:00.000-08:00

As I have mentioned before, I get together with some of my Close to my Heart sisters once a month. This month I am in charge of sharing a project with them. With some inspiration from the 'fabulously artsy' Tresa Black and her 4x4 mini-pocket album...I have morphed it and created this little 4x5 mini-album!

Now I am off to put my happy little family in my Happy Family pocket mini-album!

Let the Good Times Roll!

2009-02-04T15:47:00.000-08:00

YOU’VE PROBABLY NEVER SEEN AN ANNIVERSARY LIKE THIS ONE! To kick off our 25th anniversary as a leader and innovator in the stamping business, Close To My Heart is giving all of our stamp purchasers a fabulous gift! When you spend $25 in stamps (Customized Name and Stamp of the Month excluded), you’ll receive a custom-designed B-size My Acrylix®
Good Times stamp set (retail value $13.95), packed with fun and versatile party-inspired images, for FREE!* This beautifully crafted set will be a perfect addition to your stamp collection.

So…let’s celebrate! Here’s to the next 25 years of happy stamping and Good Times!

*Offer good February 3–28, 2009. Tax and shipping/handling may apply. Stamps shown at
50% of actual size.

Contact me at jnktriggs@cox.net for more information or to place your order today!

Card Swap Sneak Peek....

2009-01-23T08:55:00.000-08:00

Once a month, I have the pleasure of getting together with some of my CTMH sisters to share ideas, create some projects, eat some food...and just have fun! Tonight is our January meeting and I am looking forward to it! We will be doing one of our regular activites which is 'card-in-a-bag'. We each create a card and then prepare the supplies for everyone to come and create one of the cards you have designed. This gives us the best of both worlds...we get to swap beautiful cards...and we get to stamp and papercraft!

So I thought I would share a sneak peek at the card I have created and will be brining tonight!

Hope you all have a great weekend!

Winner! Winnner!

2009-01-23T08:45:00.000-08:00

I have returned from the Album Retreat a winner! I am delighted to report my labor of love...my baby blocks won first place for the "Think outside the box" contest! Whoo! Hoo! I would like to post of picture of accepting my win....or the photo of myself with Jeanette after my win. But alas....who would think I would forget to take my camera to the event!

Wish me luck....

2009-01-14T12:08:00.000-08:00

I am a very lucky girl! Tomorrow, I will by flying over to Salt Lake City, Utah to attend Close to my Heart's Consultant Album Retreat. After all the energy that went into the holidays, it is going to be so nice to spend the weekend with friends - only having to take care of me and scrapbooking the whole weekend!

One of the things I look forward to most when attending a CTMH event is their contests! This year, I have decided to skip doing a layout entry(which I won First Place for last year!!) and create an entry for the "Think outside of the box" contest for our new My Creations Cube. Of course if any of you know me...you know I LOVE to do things outside of the box!

Also want to take a moment to give credit to Jennifer Bonner from Just4funcrafts.com for her inspiration for this project!

So here is your sneak-peak!

Vicariously living...

2008-12-10T08:58:00.000-08:00

...through my Christmas Cards! Living in Arizona in the Valley of the Sun does not bring a 'White Christmas' my way. In fact, there have been years we would spend Christmas Day in shorts! So I love to spend this time of year decorating my home and cards with lovely little snowflakes!

A good day....

2008-11-12T06:48:00.000-08:00

Last August I celebrated 7 years as a Close to my Heart Demonstrator. I have loved every minute since! However, I have found that many of my personal projects can be put to the way-side for the creating, planning and prepping of workshops! I am delighted that my business has really taken off....but it doesn't always leave much time for doing projects 'just for me'.

Well, yesterday was the exception! My girlfriend Shana and I (with all the kids here due to the holiday) got together and played! We began the day thinking we were going to re-create a sweet little snowman wall hanging that I ....yep, you guessed it....made for a workshop. However, as the project moved forward and we tweaked it here and there...it developed into a much better project than expected!

It was a great day of creating, relaxing and friendship!

It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas.....

2008-10-15T20:30:00.001-07:00

Although we are still in the low 90's...I am trying to get into the spirit! These are the cards my customers created at my workshop last Saturday. They were all a big hit!

20 Years ago today....

2008-10-08T16:16:00.000-07:00

My husband Jim and I went on our first date. It was simple and sweet...watched a rented copy of the Breakfast Club, ate some frozen yogurt and talked until 3am! We have been together ever since. Fast forward 20 years...a few kids, houses, cars, careers, sad times, bad times and many good times later we are still very much in love. (Kinda sappy, I know...but true!)

Although this has nothing whatsoever to do with stamping or scappin' I just had to share this great milestone in our lives. Because these days...longevity in a relationship seems to more and more rare!

Newest project

2008-10-02T18:40:00.000-07:00

My lil' sister recently asked me if I could help her in creating a birthday gift for her best friend. Being the control freak that I am...I had decided I would be happy to 'assist' her in making her creation but I would control my normal impulse of 'taking over' and creating the book myself. Well, after her visit on Monday where we to complete the project...only got as far as picking and printing pictures...off on my own I was to create this little beauty! I was delighted to help her with this project but very nervous to create an album for someone to give to someone else!

Enjoy looking at my latest project!

Let the creativity begin.....

2008-09-15T20:58:00.000-07:00

This is a card I created for my best friend's birthday and for a swap I am in. (Yes, even in papercrafting I can multi-task!) I like it so much I thought it would make a great first post!

Thanks for looking....but I promise there will be much, much more!

Takin' the plunge....

2008-09-08T19:41:00.000-07:00

Well, better late than never! Yes, I am now one of the last people on Earth to join the blogging world and hopefully (with some more help from my 15 year old daughter) I might actually get the hang of this blogging thing!

So this inagural post will be short and sweet...'cause I really have no fabulous words of wisdom (and don't hold your breath for any in the future) and I don't really have any fantastic artwork to share....yet! :) But I promised my kiddo (who's birthday is today - Happy Birthday Baby!) I would finally post on the blog she made me weeks ago....

So hold on tight.....here we go......