sad goodbye

Our dear kitty, Puddin', was accidently killed yesterday. We are very sad that he won't be with us anymore. He was more like a dog, than a cat, and was much loved by all of us.

These are 2 pages from my Family Life Mini Book Class that I'll be teaching this weekend in Ft. Myers. I'm really glad I have photos of the girls with Puddin' in my little book.

New Class Dates

I updated my travel schedule with my spring dates. I'm excited to be making return trips to Lasting Memories, Savannah Scrapbooking, and Crop Paper Scissors (dates to be finalized soon). Seeing all the new CHA products was just what I needed to get me in the mood to cook up some brand new stuff! Scenic Route papers just released at CHA Summer are ON THE WAY for a new class I'll be teaching at Memoirs in Carmel next month. Stay tuned for sneak peeks :)

Enjoying summer?

I hope so! I know I am. Our kids go back to school really early here, so we don't have much summer left. We are ringing every drop out of it :D I'm also kitting for my upcoming trip to Dee Scrapbook Store in Ft. Myers, FL. Dee is celebrating her 1 year anniversary, and I'm pleased to be included in the party! Pictured above are 2 of my class kits. Lots of little details, but I wouldn't have it any other way :)

Digging around

in my older files, and I found some layouts that I don't think I've ever shared. Here's an oldie with some favorite summer pics. I created this one for Deja Views a good while ago.

K&Co CHA Summer Valentine

More yummy pinks! And glitter paper, and pearls :D

K&Co CHA Summer Christmas

Loved these new papers and embellishments from the new Christmas line! Maybe that's because I loved all the pink and green :) I worked with prototypes, so you just gotta imagine the papers with more depth and richness, and the embellishments with tons of glitter and shine! Click on the photos for a larger view.

K&Co CHA Summer Halloween

Finally able to show some of the projects I created in the past few months. Tim Coffey designed a new Halloween line for K&Company. His designs are always so whimsical and fun. Tim is a truly nice guy IRL too :) I'm glad to see something from him for this show. These are the projects I created with the papers, rubons, dimensional stickers, and some glitter letters from an earlier release.

Are you in the mood?

What do you do to get in the mood? For scrapping, that is ;) I decided to edit and print some photos today. I think that might motivate me to match the photos up with papers and get scrappy :) In the meantime, here's 3 oldies but still favorites. I created these in the spring of '06 for a contest at Scrapbook.com (great neighborhood and shopping site).

What a weekend!

I visited NY and CT this past weekend, teaching at a retreat organized by Julie and Barb, owners of Lasting Memories in Somers, NY. I had SUCH a good time! Approximately 60 scrappers gathered over the 3 days to scrap, scrap, scrap! I had a comfy bed at the Sheraton, time to unwind and shop (something I don't normally have time to do), and lots of gab time with scrappers who love this hobby as much as I do. The hours flew by - really, they did. My students were the best! I miss them already. Thank you, Julie and Barb, and all the new friends I made, for such a good time. Send me some photos, pretty please, and I'll post them here :)

A little news - Scrap Etc. in Birmingham, AL, launched a new website for their spring inspiration event yesterday. It will be held at the Opryland Hotel in Nashville, TN, April 17th-19th, with a great lineup of instructors. I'm happy to be one of them :D My friend, Vanessa Hudson, drew all the graphics for the site, and it turned out darling! Turn on your speaker and visit the site for more details - http://scrapetc.net/event_2008/

I just added a new class date to my calendar! I'll be teaching a brand new class at Memoirs in Indianapolis (got my fingers crossed that I'll be able to get the new Scenic Route papers), in addition to my classes at Creative Resort (more about that later). If you aren't familiar with the store, my good friend, Valerie Salmon teaches there, as well as Julie Scattaregia and others that I hope to meet when I'm there. I've only met Julie once, when I took a class from her quite a few years ago. I remember her spunky, infectious spirit, and her wonderful teaching style, as well as her big smile. Val sells out classes every month, and I totally envy her ability to do double page spreads! Actually, she does everything right from layouts to cards to mini books and altered items. I'm thrilled to be asked to teach at Memoirs, and hope to meet a bunch of new friends :D I've been wanting to visit Valerie for years, and now I'm getting the chance! I might get comfy in her scraproom and never want to leave ;) Nah, just teasing you, Val. I'd miss my family, but I do admit your scraproom is gorgeous (check out her blog - http://www.valeriesalmon.blogspot.com/ for photos).

Not sure why Blogger won't let me put a title??

This is a new set of peek photos for my "Girlfriends" class - this is exclusive for Simply Southern Scrapbook in October (click for a larger view).

With my trip to CT coming up quickly, I've been in full kitting mode. Finishing up projects, doing the photography, and writing complete instructions that go into each kit, as well as all the prep and packing for each of the kits. Of the 5 classes I'm teaching, 4 are brand new. And I've been gathering up door prizes. It's always fun to give out prizes in my classes. And then I've been shopping - you know, the age old problem of "I have nothing to wear". But, in my case, it is true. Here at home I can throw on shorts and a t-shirt with flip flops. But, I have 3 trips in the next 6 weeks, and I don't want to look sloppy when meeting new friends :) Hope to see some of you soon!

Simply Southern Scrapbook Update

Registration for this October event opened up last week, and I'm very pleased with the response. If you've been holding off on registering for classes, I'd say "do it now!" Some classes are already sold out, and I have several that are very close to it. The instructors are offering a wide variety of classes - something for everyone :) Don't wait and miss out on your favorites. www.simplysouthernscrapbook.com, and click on classes. Hope to see you in Huntsville!

Eleven

This layout was published in Scrapbooks etc. Isn't that polka dotted ribbon FAB? That came in one of my Poppy Ink kits and I think it is May Arts. The accents are heat embossed, but it doesn't show well in the photo. Also love these Heidi Grace papers with glitter, clear embossing, and flocking.

Updated French Twist Album

I'm headed to Lasting Memories next week (weekend retreat), so I thought I better put the finishing touches on my French Twist Tag Album :) I think the papers are great for beach, but also for any summer or girly themed photos. Students will get the whole set of Scenic Route rubons that they can use on their album or save for later.

Found something

A photo and a layout. The layout is one that I loved creating, with photos of my youngest nephew. He and his older brother are staying with me 1 day a week this summer, and they are great kids :) That photo is them with my sister, Cindy, on Mother's Day this past month.

I'm guilty

of blog neglect. So sorry. I got busy on several things, and then took a short family vacation, and here it is 11 days later! I wish I could show you some K&Co sneak peeks for the CHA Summer show coming up next month...but I can't...but I think you'll love it :D And, I went to a local crop last week and made some cards and altered a couple things - that was fun. It had been a while since I'd made any cards. Otherwise, I've been kitting for my classes coming up at the Lasting Memories retreat in Danbury, CT. Looking forward to my trip there!!

Registration for Simply Southern Scrapbook in Huntsville, AL, opened this week, and I've been told that classes are selling well. That's good news for me and my fellow instructors.

Ugh, this is a boring post, isn't it? Gotta go dig and see if I have anything to share ;)

Thank you, Janet!

While visiting my friend, and scrapping cohort, Janet, last week, she snapped this photo of the girls and I. I don't get many pics of us together, so I was happy she did.

Do Not Adjust Your Television Set

Remember those testing messages? Am I dating myself? lol In any case, this photo is exactly what it is - and she cannot be my child, right? It was this, or hands in front of her face, or the back of her head. The little stinker. She's missing 3 teeth, and it makes for a snaggly smile anyway, lol.

Thank you!

Thanks to all for your vacation ideas and tips :D No decision made, but at least I'm armed with some ideas for the family to consider.

I don't think I posted this sneak peek of one of my classes for the Simply Southern Scrapbook convention in Huntsville, AL (titled "Heart of a Gypsy"). Registration for all the classes opens Tuesday, June 26, 2007 at 7:00 pm CST. Advance tickets are $2 cheaper than tickets at the door, and you reserve your seat, so no regrets if you get there and the classes you wanted are all sold out ;)

Check out all the great classes at http://www.simplysouthernscrapbook.com/, and let me know what you think.

vacation ideas?

Hi, all. I'm needing some help. My family would like to take a vacation - somewhere not to far away (because we would drive) and not too expensive (have you checked the rates on a beach condo rental lately?!) We did Chattanooga, TN, last spring, and I tried to convince the fam that Nashville sounded great to me...they aren't buying it. Basically, we need some kid stuff nearby (museum, water park, zoo, etc.), a great pool, and good food. We've been to the Pigeon Forge area few times, but never stayed anywhere that really made us want to go back. We've been to Big Cedar Lodge outside Branson, and loved it, but it's looking pricey to me this year. I've racked my brain, and thought I would ask my friends for some ideas - or specific places you've stayed that were nice, clean, and fun. Any help is appreciated!

We Belong Together

Kind of goes with yesterday's post, huh? :D Just a coincidence, I tell ya, 'cause I've been working on this 8.5X5.5 album for a class I'll be teaching for Lasting Memories at their retreat in CT. It's a limited edition class - meaning I'm only teaching it with these papers this one time, for 24 students. I need to dig thru my photo stash and decide exactly which ones I want to put in it :) I wanted it to be appropriate for all ages and boys, girls, families, friends, whatever. The birdies can even be flipped over, if you don't want that little cutesy bit (but I love 'em, and I want 'em, lol). These KI Memories papers are just the yummiest!

19 years

As of today, this man and I have been married for 19 years...almost half my life. And I'd do it all over again. Happy Anniversary, Sweetheart!

layouts

Almost time for July Scrapbooks, etc., so I guess it's okay to post a few of my layouts in the last issue.

Summer in full swing

around here it is :D The girls are super excited about attending a nature/outdoor camp, and I'm ready to do some sewing. But, still working on a couple of scrappy things. This is a peek at another summer class. Still deciding on a title for this one, but don't you love the colors?!

Lisa Risser - please email me at momtwoangels@yahoo.com. I've lost your addy and want to mail something out to ya.

I wanted to take a break

Really, I did want to. But, then I realized that I needed 3 summer classes for my trips to CT and FL. So, lest you think I've been resting, here is a sneak peek at one.

Hope you all have a wonderful Memorial Day.

Connecticut and Florida, here I come!

I just added a few dates to my traveling schedule :D

Lasting Memories is a store in New York that holds these awesome retreats (just over the CT line). I look forward to hanging out with the girls for a weekend! I'm also happy that I'll finally get to meet Ramona Greenspan, my fellow dt member from Down Memory Lane Co.

Dee Scrapbook Store in Ft. Myers, FL, will be celebrating their one year anniversary with a big scrappy weekend. I've never been that far south, and I'm told Dee has a totally fun group of customers down there!

But, for a few weeks, I plan to enjoy summer...swimming, sewing, and playing with my girls. Wishing you all a happy summer too!

I felt Right At Home

Of course, I did :D Sharon and Lisa have such a wonderful store. If you are ever in the Boston/Providence area, you should check them out. It's worth a drive! I taught five classes over the weekend, and thoroughly enjoyed myself. I hope the girls in class had as much fun. Shelly Bashaw won the grand prize drawing, and took home a ton of scrapping goodness! Shelly and Fatima both took my Handmade Blooms Family Album class in January, and not only did they complete all the extra pages with the ideas from class, but they also added more buttons, felt, transparency accents, and lots of Chatterbox papers to complete 10 more pages and fill up that album. I was thrilled to see both of their albums, and know they must feel a great sense of accomplishment. Thank you to Right At Home for such a warm welcome and great fun!

All About The Bling

Promised a peek at the redesigned Heidi Grace accordian album that I'll be teaching at Right At Home this weekend!! Lovin' these papers! I will add the flocked/glittered tags and 3 more ribbons once I reach the store for that final punch of color and bling. The other great thing about this class is that you learn how to create a 4X6 accordian album from scratch, so you can create one later in any theme or color for yourself or gifts. After this weekend, this class is retired, so if you want a kit, be sure to call RAH before they are all gone!

Have you voted?

Paper Crafts is hosting it's first ever Gallery Idol Contest, and my friend, Valerie, has made it to the Top 10. Her latest birthday creation - Jack in the Box - is just darling, and the other contestants have outdone themselves for this round. So check it out, and cast your vote! http://www.papercraftsmag.com/gallery/content.ihtml?idx=196

And because pink and red are my colors

for the month, here is a little peek at one of my summer/fall classes! Had lots of fun creating this "so very" project :D

Will have a new "All About the Bling Accordian Album" project to show you tomorrow. I'm redesigning my "Spring Bling" class for my upcoming trip to Right At Home Scrapbooking (with some newer GORGEOUS Heidi Grace papers - green, orange, pink, yellow - yum, yum!)

What's everyone up to? Counting down those last days of school? We are. I've also been reading and researching quilting, and shopping for some fabrics. Anyone else a quilter?

It Kit Studio

A friend launched her new kit club today - www.itkitstudio.com. I got to play with the custom stamp included in the premier kit. Whipped up this It card :) Check out the site, and soak up some inspiration from Kelly and her team!

prizes, prizes, everywhere!

When traveling and teaching, I always bring along giveaways for my classes. And, this next weekend at Right At Home will be no exception. But, what you see pictured above - ALL of what you see pictured above - will be part of a grand prize giveaway next weekend! To be eligible for the drawing, sign up for 3 or more of my classes (or purchase class kits). Your name will go in a hat, and I'll draw out one lucky winner on Sunday afternoon!! I haven't figured up the dollar amount, but there is something for everyone to love in this package. I'll edit with a complete list of what is included tomorrow (I'm heading out to see Spiderman 3!) Come join me at Right At Home next weekend!

Last Call for 4 Spring Class Kits

Next week I'll be teaching in Boston at Right At Home Scrapbooking. Having taught there earlier this year, I know what a treat it will be to return :D I look forward to seeing everyone there, as well as the great shopping in the store, lol.

This will be my last time to teach 4 of my spring classes. If you are interested in any of the class kits, please contact Right at Home (508-695-9290). My kits include complete instructions and a color copy of the entire project, as well as everything needed to complete the project except the stamps I share in class. And, I'm here if you have any questions during assembly :D
All 4 available kits are pictured below (remember to click on the photo for a larger view.)

Joy 6X6 Chipboard Binder Album

My sample needs journaling, but you get the idea.

Spring Bling Handmade Accordian Album

This kit may contain another line of Heidi Grace papers/tags, but will be along the same lines.

No Place Like Home Tag Album

Could be a variation in Prima flower colors and ribbon.

Butterfly Kisses 5X5 Chipboard Album

There may be a variation of Prima flower colors and ribbon (depending on availability).

ScrapPink and contests!

My favorite scrappy magazine, BHG Scrapbooks etc., is kicking off a really exciting venture this year: ScrapPink! They are asking local scrapbook stores throughout North America to join with them in hosting weekend crops September 28-30, and to donate a portion of the proceeds raised to breast cancer awareness and research, as part of their partnership with Susan G. Komen. Check out the ScrapPink website (www.scrappink.com) to see if a store near you is participating, or ask your local store to get involved. They also wanted to come up with a way you could ALL be directly involved in this effort, so they are conducting a few fun contests. One is to design a ScrapPink t-shirt. The other is to design a card, page, or album kit. The winning kit designs will be featured in the October issue of Scrapbooks etc. Also, photos and directions for the projects will be sent to all the stores participating in ScrapPink so their attendees can create their versions of the winning designs. It's a great cause, a great event, and a great chance for you to be published, AND win $250 in product from the ScrapPink sponsors. Check out the ScrapPink website (www.scrappink.com) to learn more and get involved!

going to be a favorite

Because these are my scrappy colors and I included some favorite photos :D Not to mention this A2Z paper is one of my most favorite, and WHO can resist Amy Butler scrapbook papers (or fabrics, lol, but that is for another day). If you are interested in having me visit your area, have your store owners give me a buzz!

keeping busy

I am, I promise. Designing even more classes for summer/fall, AND I'll be back in Boston visiting Right At Home Scrapbooking on the 19th and 20th. Looking forward to the trip!

Here are a couple of little peeks at some double page spreads that I'll be teaching in October. Yes, one is for a baby or toddler boy, and the other is definitely masculine (although I used sports photos of my girl, and they look fine too). No flowers (or pink) in sight on either layout :D

I just finished up a very girly tag album that I love, but no photos yet (it's dark outside!) More Amy Butler papers mixed with some A to Z black and white floral - yummy!

And Ms. "headed to Disney World" Linda (www.lindaharrison.typepad.com) tagged me to list some of my favorite blogs. That means I have to admit that I don't read many blogs...I like them a lot - too much! If I start, I can't seem to stop, and hours go by, and my booty gets wider sitting in this wooden chair, lol.

I try to visit blogs of friends (too many to list), and other than that, I only have a few other regular stops:

www.alwblog.typepad.com - Audrey's photography rocks my world.

And the one that has been making me laugh and laugh lately

www.thepioneerwoman.com - Ree is a hoot, and she takes great photos too.

Sorry to be so boring, Linda!

Tagging 3 people - Valerie (www.valeriesalmon.blogspot.com), Tracie (www.tracieclaiborne.blogspot.com), and Audrea (www.audreatrawick.blogspot.com).