...and so another day begins

2011-03-06T09:00:00.000-05:00

Hi there! And welcome to the relaunch of my blog! I can't think of a better way to kick it off than by being part of the Scrappin' Great Deals Blog Hop that introduces you to all of us SGD DIVAs! Thanks for stopping by!

If you didn't arrive here from the SCRAPPIN' GREAT DEALS BLOG HOP, make sure you head back there and hop through all of the wonderful blogs of our store's Divas and Designers. Make sure to leave comments on each blog for a chance at some BLOG CANDY!

So, the purpose of this hop? So that you can get to know each of us just a little bit better than you maybe already do!

My name is Carol and I just celebrated my second anniversary at Scrappin' Great Deals! I feel so lucky every day that I have a job - is it even fair to call it that? - that I LOVE! Although time has not permitted it as often lately, I not only work in the store and ocassionally design with the monthly kits, but I also teach classes at SGD. I think I am most fondly known as the Cricut Queen or Contessa ;) (And for those waiting, there will be a Cricut 101 class scheduled sooner than later - I promise!) I LOVE being able to help customers learn new techniques and get as excited as we do about new products. Helping you preserve your memories in a fun and creative way is fun for me, too!

Outside of the store, I have been married to my sweetie, Shawn, for almost 12 years. We have two gorgeous kids. My daughter, Elsie is 7 1/2 years old and has become a competitive dancer this year... so I have a new title as DANCE MOM... which I love! My son, Tanner will be 10 years old in just a few weeks. Tanner is a swimmer and soccer player. I love the title of SOCCER MOM, too! Tanner does have Down syndrome and Autism, which brings its own sets of challenges but it also brings unconditional love and acceptance. We are all better people for having him in our lives! Through him we have met many incredible people and have helped many other families that have been blessed with special kids. I have also rediscovered a love of photography and have recently been kept busy creating altered items, scrapbooks, and other goodies for friends and family.

I was hoping to have a new layout about me to post, but just couldn't find a spare moment. LOL I do have this layout to share. Before I was working, I belonged to a Just For Moms support group for moms with kids with special needs. We each did a layout about ourselves to share with the others. So, you'll see that my role hasn't changed too much over the past few years... if anything, it has just been enriched.

NOW. Head on over to Aimee's blog to meet the mother/daughter duo of Cheri and Aimee.

Oh, and please feel free to become a follower of my blog!

Can't believe I missed...

2011-03-03T21:32:00.003-05:00

posting February's Get Your Sketch On results!

Here was the sketch...

And my layout...

Next GYSO class is scheduled for March 11th 6:30 - 8:30pm. $12 + taxes.
Don't forget that you get to stay and crop for free until midnight!

Last chance...

2011-01-22T11:37:00.002-05:00

to Get Your Sketch On challenge submission in to the SCRAPPIN' GREAT DEALS BLOG!
Closes at midnight tonight!

A great challenge at Scrappin' Great Deals blog!

2011-01-19T08:40:00.004-05:00

So, on the second Friday of every month, Kim and I teach a class at SCRAPPIN' GREAT DEALS called Get Your Sketch On! It's $12 plus tax and includes a sketch, four papers of your choice, assorted embellishments, and 2 hrs of designer-time x 2 to help you interpret the sketch, pick papers, and produce a FABULOUS layout. AND - yes, there is more - get 20% off any regular-priced, in-stock items purchased that evening! Oh, and as an additional bonus, you get to stay and crop until midnight for free ($5 value)! If you have seen the tool table at SGD, you know this is worth the price of admission alone!

Then, to take it even one step further...

On the Saturday AFTER the class, Lori will post the sketch and our layouts on SCRAPPIN' GREAT DEALS BLOG!
We then challenge you to post a layout inspired by the sketch. A random winner will receive an awesome giveaway from Sheila at SGD. And did we mention that class attendees that post their layout get TWO entries? So, get creating ladies and then get posting! Full details are on the blog.

January's class...

THE SKETCH

MY LAYOUT

KIM'S LAYOUT

Almost made it...

2011-01-12T00:10:00.003-05:00

I missed it by *thatmuch*. I decided I would aim to post at least once a week until I get myself organized enough to get on here more regularly.

Today I thought I would share one of my new "loves." It started several years ago when I was away in Port Huron for a weekend crop. I wanted to dress up my daughter's room a little and so altered some letters that my hubby had cut for me out of mdf.

A few months ago, someone was looking for something similar and a deal was made! Once word got out, I think I ended up at 7 or 8 names in total... and there still may be more! Here are a few pictures.

Completely different styles, but I love how they both turned out!

Next I am thinking of doing words - love, family, hope, dream, believe - and including pictures. I'll keep ya posted...

A FRESH START

2011-01-02T20:31:00.010-05:00

with a GREAT new monthly kit from
SCRAPPIN' GREAT DEALS!

I know, I know... I said I was going to keep my blog up-to-date the last time I posted. Well, THIS time I really am! :)

And, I have a great way to kick off the New Year! I was asked by Sheila to design with the January Monthly Kit. Oh, I had so much fun! We recently had some family photos done and I couldn't wait to scrap them when I saw the papers in this month's kit! I did two layouts and a card, but I have so much leftover that I think I'll post a few more projects before the end of the month.

Although I profess to be a scrapbooker and not a cardmaker, I find myself making more and more cards and buying more and more stamps. Andrea will get me over to that dark side of colouring with copics yet! For now, here is a card that I made using the MME Meadowlark Dusk and Dawn papers from in the kit.

I coloured the raw chipboard frame using Glimmer Glaze in COWBOY. I LOVE how quickly it dries and the great coverage and shimmer you get from it!

I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE my new ZUTTER Distrezz-it-All! I am forever sanding, filing, and distressing the edges of my photos and papers. The ZUTTER Distrezz-it-All does ALL of the work for you! Plug it in, press the button, and swipe your papers over the teeth! Just make sure you mention to the others in the house what you are doing. My hubby came running to see what the noise was. Ooops. :)

And, the full layout. Don't you just adore the new KI Memories Happy Words - Black Border Stickers? I knew exactly what pictures I would be using for "laugh!"

And, finally, my newest favourite picture of my kids. I wanted to let the picture shine through and so kept the background simple with the Prima paper. The colours were perfect. A few layered flowers, buttons, and brads... a little bit of lace, and the picture speaks for itself.

Now, head on over to Scrappin' Great Deals blog to see the full kit. And, make sure you stop by LORI's blog to see what she is creating with the kit. Her work will BLOW YOUR MIND!

CHECK IT OUT!

2010-09-27T09:40:00.005-04:00

Scrappin' Great Geals has a new logo! And it is so fun, SERIOUSLY!

Hmmm, not sure why it came out so small. I'll work on that, but you get the idea!

2010-09-22T09:50:00.003-04:00

Ok, so I fell behind again! But, that's because I have been busy enjoy my family AND coming up with some GREAT class ideas for you!

Coming up on Sept 25th I'll be teaching a Cricut 101 class followed by a new class - Create with Cricut! Cricut 101 will teach you everything you need to know to have fun creating with your machine. In Create with Cricut, we will get hands on and create some projects featuring many of the different Creative Features on the cartridges. And, if time permits, we will play and play and play some more! If you can't make it out that day, don't fret. I will be teaching these classes again about every two months or so!

Here's a peek at the projects for this Create with Cricut class...

Great deals going on at SCRAPPIN' GREAT DEALS! Check it out!

2010-06-28T21:54:00.004-04:00

SCRAPPIN' GREAT DEALS
Canada Day Week-Long Celebration - Save 15% Store-Wide!!

This week is Canada's 143rd Birthday and we are having a week long store-wide event!!

From now until Sunday, July 4th at midnight you will enjoy savings of 15% store-wide on all regular priced items!!

For a full week everything in our store is on sale!

You read that right ....
if it hasn't been marked down; you will receive 15% off!!

In other words - every single item in the store is on sale - including everything that's NEW!!

(excluded: pre-order items; clearance & daily sale items)

Please Note: There is no coupon to use for your 15% savings & you can shop as often as you like!!

Your 15% savings, on regular priced items, will be calculated manually from our end.
This means that your shopping cart online will not show the 15% savings.
Once your order is pulled, we will email you with your new total & a detailed invoice will be shipped with your parcel.
If an item in your shopping cart hasn't been already reduced, we will manually deduct 15% for you!!

When aiming for FREE shipping ($125+ before taxes within Canada); please remember
to include the calculation of your 15% savings

Next 12 Hour sale will be held Thursday, July 8th

Please Note:
offer cannot be combined with other store coupons/discounts/pending orders

Sale ends Sunday, July 4th @ midnight

pick-up orders - please allow a minimum of 24 - 48 hours for order processing

excludes gift cards/crops/classes/preorder items

Come and join me at Scrappin' Great Deals!

2010-06-13T23:36:00.003-04:00

On June 19th from 10am to noon, I will be hosting a FREE Make 'n' Take at Scrappin' Great Deals! No need to register, just come on out and join in on the fun!

Then, from 12:30 to 3pm, I will be doing a Star Album class using the gorgeous new line from Bo Bunny - Mamarazzi! Cost is $30 + tax. Kits with full instructions can be ordered if you can not make the class. Preregistration is required. Contact SCRAPPIN' GREAT DEALS by phone at 519-473-5751 or register in person!

Not what I had intended to make...

2010-06-07T21:49:00.006-04:00

but sometimes you just have to go with the flow!

So I was able to sneak away this weekend for a little R 'n' R that turned more in to a scrap frenzy. I was hoping to get some samples done for some upcoming classes at Scrappin' Great Deals, but got an order for some cards at the eleventh hour. :)

So, here are the cards.

Thank you cards ordered by a friend that is on crutches.

Inside is blank.

Inside of this card reads... for all of your help while I was off my feet!

University Graduation Card

And now I shall go work on the Star Album and an idea for a Make 'n' Take!

2010-06-01T00:28:00.003-04:00

June 1st and the new monthly kit from SCRAPPIN' GREAT DEALS is ready and waiting for you!

I was so excited when Sheila asked me if I wanted to design with the June Kit. I miss having the regular design team, but I do love seeing all of the creations of Sarah, our resident designer, and YOU the customer! But, every now and then I like to have my turn again!

This kit was so full of goodies. I managed 4 layouts and still have a ton left over. So, without further adieu...

On this layout, I wanted to show that you can use a full, bold patterned paper all on its own. I used a Gelly Roll Stardust Clear Roll-on Glitter Pen to add a subtle glitter to everything! I outlined the title letters, the layout itself, the matte around the photo, and I also used it to add glitter to the flowers. You just have to see it IRL!

For this layout, I used the Bazzill Cardstock for the foundation, but when I was done it just looked "not finished." I ended up crumbling and crunching and distressing the edges, until I ended up with a worn and tattered look. IRL, the paper almost looks like a sheet of chocolate brown leather now! I added the Maya Road library pocket and card. I picked them up at the Great Lakes Mega Meet in Novi last month, but I know Sheila is looking in to bringing them in to the store as well.

WOW! I never thought I would love a layout so much that was one die cut, one photo, one flower, and two cards cut from one other piece of paper! All of the colours just worked so well together that I just couldn't bring myself to add anything more. Ok, I used my Gelly Roll Stardust Clear Roll-on Glitter Pen again to add glitter to the flower! I love those things.

So, my last layout does not look like what I had in my head when I started, but that is what I love about papercrafting... it doesn't have to as long as we are happy with the end results. And, I am.
My sweet Elsie took the time out of an Easter Egg Hunt on the Port Stanley Easter Train to pick me some flowers. What a kid!

WOW! Has it really been this long?

2010-05-28T19:19:00.003-04:00

I'm sorry to those that have come to visit and found the same old post - literally! I will be trying to stay on top of things once again, but both hubby and I have had some changes in the hours we work. For me I am working more hours - which I love - but it leaves less time for blogging. Hubby is working a different shift and I am, more or less, solo-parenting four days a week... which again, leaves less time for blogging!

However! I have been asked by Sheila - my awesome boss - to design with the June monthly kit that SCRAPPIN' GREAT DEALS has put together. So, look out for a new post of some FABULOUS layouts by MOI (LOL) on June 1st! And then, maybe I can keep the momentum going...

Busy, busy, busy!

2010-01-29T19:00:00.003-05:00

I can't believe it is almost my one year anniversary of working in the store! Have I mentioned lately how much I LOVE my job? I get to be amongst beautiful goodies all shift long... and then I get to create with it all!

Speaking of creating, I have some classes coming up at the store.

Feb 11th - Cricut 101. All that you ever wanted or didn't know you needed to know about the Cricut, Expression and Create machines, and all the goodies that go along with them! Only $15 + tax for 2 hrs of information and questions answered!

Feb 25th - Cuttlebug Card Class. Come on out and make 5 cards using the Cuttlebug machine and dies or embossing folders on each one. We may even have some new techniques for you! ;) Only $25 + tax for 5 cards and envelopes.

Upcoming classes - I haven't scheduled them just yet, but watch for these upcoming classes...

Another Star Album class - a little different than the last - using the beautiful Best Creations line Mr & Mrs. Just wait until you see this paper. GORGEOUS!

Shhh, it's a secret... but I did a layout on a canvas as a gift for someone dear to me. I can't show you pictures just yet, but you'll want to check back for it! We'll be making a beautiful layout using Basic Grey Origins line on a 16" x 20" canvas. What a beautiful gift for Mother's Day or ?????

And, there will be others in between, but I plan to do the canvas class again after the summer, but we will be doing a wedding theme...

Visit www.scrappingreatdeals.com to register!

Wow. Jan 29th.

2010-01-29T18:55:00.003-05:00

Hmmm. So much for resolutions. Mine for this year was to better keep my blog up-to-date. Guess better late than never!

It's been an incredibly busy couple of months. We have had a lot of fun events happening at the store, and I've picked up a few clients of my own! Six star albums, two scrapbooks, and three diaper cakes later... Tansie design is officially in business! ;) I even had the opportunity to ship one of my cakes and it travelled beautifully. I'm so excited to know I can say YES to far away requests!

Christmas was a lot of fun. Busy of course, but the kids had a fabulous time and were once again spoiled rotten. Well, I guess I was too! Not complaining!

So, here I am. Trying again to stay on top of things! I've even added another challenge in that I have joined a group in Project 365. The challenge is to take one photo (or more) a day and post it to a blog. So, please feel free to hop on over to www.stayfocusedproject365.blogspot.com and let me know what you think!

Class on November 19th.

2009-11-02T23:15:00.004-05:00

Ok, I have a picture of this class only because its date has been changed from the 5th to the 19th! Again, the class will be at Scrappin' Great Deals! Only $20.

It's a "Countdown to Christmas" Altered Clipboard! Reuse it year-after-year!

Next class is November 26th!

2009-11-02T23:13:00.004-05:00

I'll be doing a class at Scrappin' Great Deals on November 26th. We'll be altering some gift bags amd making matching tags and cards. Watch for more details and pictures to follow in the next few days!

Here is a sample set of bag, tag and card.

Ok, a few posts tonight so I will start with the Halloween pictures!

2009-11-02T23:09:00.002-05:00

Here I am in all my Octomom glory!

And, darling daughter dressed as Corinne from Barbie and the Three Musketeers. She's got her fierce on!

And, I only have a picture of darling son in a group shot. He was dressed as a soccer player!

Who am I?

2009-10-25T01:39:00.003-04:00

So, my darling daughter wanted me to dress up as a wizard this year when I took her out trick-or-treating. Everything was all set, UNTIL I came across this idea for a costume. I couldn't resist. Unfortunately, darling daughter has NO IDEA who this infamous person is... but I'm certain she would love it if mommy had 8 more babies (+ 6 other kids!) Here's a sneak peek. I'll add a full picture after Halloween!

New class being offered!

2009-10-16T10:06:00.005-04:00

First off, I just have to thank the ladies that attended the Cuttlebug Card Class last night. I hope you all had as great a time as I did!

Ok. I have a new class scheduled. It's not showing on the website yet, but it is set for Thurs, Oct 22nd 6:30 - 8:30pm. (It may be rescheduled if necessary...)

Do you find Christmas shopping to be a disorganized mess? Well, look no futher! We are going to alter a metal DVD tin and it will create a space for everything you need to be organized. On the inside will be a notepad and pen to make your lists, and also 3 pockets to keep receipts, coupons, gift cards, or whatever else you can come up with! All of this for ONLY $15! And, you will be able to reuse it year-after-year!

So, head on over to SCRAPPIN' GREAT DEALS to register before the class is full! Only 9 spaces will be available!

CUSTOMER GARAGE SALE!

2009-10-16T10:03:00.002-04:00

This weekend only! October 17th and 18th at SCRAPPIN' GREAT DEALS. 9 - 5 on Sat and 10 - 4 on Sun.
Come on out and find yourself some AWESOME deals on new/gently used scrapbooking and stamping items. We have over 50 boxes of items registered so far! Something for everyone!
And, if you have a Cricut, look for the Jukebox and Cartridges in MY box! Vendor #23.

Hope to see you there!

Congratulations to....

2009-09-22T14:09:00.002-04:00

ROSANNE! Make sure to email me your mailing address so that I can get your goodies to you!

Better luck next time Angela! Hope to see you at the crop!

BLOG CANDY!

2009-09-20T18:33:00.004-04:00

Ok, so what an exciting week. #1 hit on GOOGLE for Cuttlebug Card Class and Cuttlebug Waterfall Card! Yes, I printed it out and will scrapbook it!

That being said, I was going to do blog candy at 4000 posts! Then, with the jump, I figured I'd do it at 12,000. Well, it seems I missed that, too! But, we'll do it now anyway!

So, first person to comment and tell me when the upcoming ALL DAY CROP at SCRAPPIN' GREAT DEALS is, wins some goodies from me... AND a $10 gift certificate to SCRAPPIN' GREAT DEALS! Don't worry if you are not local, Sheila will ship world wide.

Ok, GO!

WOW!

2009-09-09T23:28:00.004-04:00

Ok. So. Is it possible that the numbers are correct? Have I written something that is a top(ish) "hit" on google? Do blogs get spammed?

Why do I ask? Well, the other day I was nearing 4000 visitors and was thinking that I needed to do another BLOG CANDY giveaway. I took a look a few days later and was already over at about 4011.

Today... my total number of visitors is showing at 11,895! I think there must be a glitch there. I would LOVE for it to be true, but my other blog - that I never post on anymore - is showing the same number of visitors.

Is someone messing with me?!?!?!!??!?!?!?!?!

Ah, who cares. I'll take it! I guess BLOG CANDY will happen at 12,000 now! :)

Editted to add: I just googled CUTTLEBUG WATERFALL CARD and guess what comes up as the first hit?!?!?!? OMG! I made google's top-of-the-list of searches! Ah, such simple pleasures! LOL

CUTTLEBUG CARD CLASS!

2009-09-07T20:51:00.003-04:00

You have asked... and it's been scheduled!

Thurs, Sept 17th from 6:30 to 8:30pm at SCRAPPIN' GREAT DEALS.
Cost is only $20!
Make sure to call and register before the class is full!

Here is a sample of just some of the cards we will be making...
pssst! Have you ever wanted to learn how to make a waterfall card?!?!??!

Hope to see you there!

CHECK IT OUT!

2009-09-02T17:58:00.002-04:00

On now at SCRAPPIN' GREAT DEALS

YOUR SALE ... YOUR WAY EVENT IS BACK!!

It's our most requested sale event & it's back!!

Here is how it works:
Place your order (or shop in-person) by 5pm Saturday, September 5th & SAVE!!
Spend $70 or more (before taxes) & receive $15 off your order!
This is your $15 to spend how you want - you decide what is on sale!!

Exclusions: Preorder Items, Classes, Gift Cards
Discount cannot be applied to an existing order or combined with any other offer
One discount per qualifying purchase/customer - applies for online orders & in-person shopping

How to redeem your $15 discount:
once your shopping cart is $70+ (before taxes); type YOUR WAY (all cap's) in the coupon box
(coupon box is located at the bottom of your shopping cart)
please note our system will only accept one coupon/order

pick up orders - please allow a minimum of 24-48 hours for order processing
(we will email you once your order is available for pickup)

tell your friends - this is our famous YOUR SALE ... YOUR WAY EVENT!

Mark Sept 24th on your calendar!

2009-08-18T14:35:00.005-04:00

That's when we will be having a class at Scrappin' Great Deals to make these GORGEOUS 2 two page layouts from the Bo-Bunny line Unforgettable!
Class will be Thurs, Sept 24th from 6:30 to 9:30pm. Cost is $30.
*Please note that payment is required at the time of registration.
Payment by phone may be done by VISA/MasterCard 519-473-5751.

**** NOTE **** The pictures do not do these layouts justice! They are absolutely GORGEOUS in real life. Check them out next time you are in the store!

Well.

2009-08-18T14:09:00.002-04:00

The other day I was filling the bird feeder. Hubby says to me, "I just filled that yesterday." I said, "Really? Because I filled it the day before!"

Yup. Found the culprit. Lives under our deck and empties the feeder daily, if we let him.

Ok, as promised... new posts and pictures!

2009-08-11T14:55:00.001-04:00

July 25th was the 15 hr crop at Scrapping Great Deals. Although inspired by Sheila, there was NO WAY I could get as many layouts done as her. I was too busy "visiting!" Sheila completed about 16 layouts that day/night!

I managed to complete a project for a client. I have a family that has now purchased their THIRD Star Album from me. First the daughter for her baby girl, then the Step-mom inlaw for her baby boy, and now the mom for a 50th Wedding Anniversary she is attending. The other two claimed to have loved theirs, so I am hoping she will be just as happy with hers!

Her are some pics of the three of them...

I also got a layout done that included some pictures my dad had emailed me. He wasn't sure who had taken the pictures, but it was of alot of Bald Eagles feeding at Comox, BC. And, I do mean ALOT. See for yourself! (And thanks to whomever took the photos. They are stunning!)

Elsie and I went to a play called "There's a Mouse in the House" The mouse character had her hair in two pony-type knots on her head for ears. Elsie decided she wanted some mouse ears of her own. I knew that it would leave her hair nice and wavy, so I convinced her to let me put them all over her head. Um, can you say ROCKSTAR?

The Flower Ranch is a nursery in Strathroy. Every year at Christmas, they invite local school kids to have their picture taken with Santa. They have a huge spread of cake, cookies, coffee, crafts for the kids, etc. Oh, and a free photo with Santa! We have gone for the past few years now, and Tanner has yet to make it in to see Santa. Elsie has made it each time... with Mommy right there beside her!

The room.

2009-08-10T22:12:00.002-04:00

So, I am ready to "load the room." Unfortunately, I don't have the gang from Trading Spaces here to help me, and I don't have any of the furniture figured out yet. But, we figured I would just get everything into the room and then go from there!

So, here's where we are at...

Thanks for looking!

OMG! Candace?!??!?!?!?

2009-08-09T15:57:00.004-04:00

Well, that's what I was saying when I walked in to work on Friday! A little back story first. I am a member of the cricut messageboard over at www.cricut.com. There are hundreds of thousands of members, but there are about 40 that I have become close with over the past four years. We often do card swaps, gift swaps, circle journals, recipe books, and secret santas just to name a few. One of the more successful activities is matching up "secret sisters" from around the world. Now. I can't remember if Candace had Anja as her secret sister, or if it was the other way around - I think it was - but, Anja is visiting in Canada right now! I was not able to get to any of the get-togethers, so imagine my surprise when I found them SHOPPING in the store where I work! Woo hoo! It was so great to see Candace again (she lives a fair drive away) and to meet Anja! Wish they could have stayed longer, but I think they were getting a little shopped out!

Carol, Anja, and Candace at Scrappin' Great Deals

So, it was GREAT seeing you ladies! Enjoy the rest of your visit together, and have a safe journey home, Anja! P.S. I went and stole the picture from your blog! :)

This week...

2009-07-26T23:24:00.001-04:00

new posts and updated pictures... I promise!

Please keep visiting! :)

All Day Crop at Scrappin' Great Deals!

2009-07-07T00:08:00.000-04:00

Just wanted to make sure everyone knew about this! I will actually be scrapping/cropping/whatever you want to call it instead of working! Come on out! It will be a blast! Even the owner is scrapping, so you know the goodies will be good!

Crop Day/Evening Event at Scrappin' Great Deals!!
Bring in your projects & scrap the day/evening away!
Full use of all punches/tools/machines (including Cricut)
prizes/snacks/drinks/pizza!!

Cost is $20.00

Saturday, July 25th: 9:00am - MIDNIGHT!

There are currently 6 spots available

*Please note that payment is required at the time of registration.
Payment by phone may be done by VISA/MasterCard 519-473-5751

2009-06-30T17:42:00.007-04:00

SCRAPPIN' GREAT DEALS
Limited Edition July/09 12x12 Monthly Kit!!

Jammed-packed with gorgeous products from several companies!
Each Kit includes the following:
5 sheets of gorgeous double-sided, high-quality papers by MME & WRMK
1 12x12 fully die-cut designer paper by MME (Penny Lane series)
1 12x12 sheet of Glitter-enhanced WRMK Bling Paper
4 sheets of matching textured Bazzill 12x12 Cardstock
1 full package of Rainboots Powder Blue Puffy Thickers (alpha set)
2 yards of brown & pink elastic lace cut ribbon
1 package of Basic Grey Bling-It Rhinestones
2 pc of Maya Road Chipboard swirl pieces
1 Ladybug clear stamp by Daisy Bucket
1 Cat's Eye Fluid Chalk Ink Pad in a brown shade
AND lots of coordinating dew drops, brads & paper flowers!

All of this for just $28.98!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I had so much fun creating with this kit. I just wish I had more and more of it to keep playing! I was so surprised at all of the alphas!
Here's what I came up with, but make sure to check out these two blogs as well... Laura and Jean

Now, just a little disclaimer! Pictures don't usually do layouts and cards justice, but I had a hard time getting some good shots today. Not really sure why?!?!?!?!?

Ah, my wise, young owl... Elsie and her literacy award!

Tinkerbell came to our house! I was reading Elsie a bedtime story, and the sun glinted several times off my watch and reflected on the wall. She was certain it was Tinkerbell! And, well, it must have been because in the morning we found Tinkerbell's "sleeping nest" complete with glitter from her fairy wings!
Just wanted to note that this paper is GORGEOUS! You can't tell from the photo, but it has glitter all throughout the swirls of flowers. I couldn't bring myself to cover up any of that "fairy dust!"

My favourite family photo - hands down. Sad that it is 5 years old, hey? Maybe one day we'll get another good one!

I just wanted more and more of these materials so that I could keep creating. I ended up making three cards as well...

Teacher's gift

2009-06-24T11:04:00.001-04:00

So, my daughter is attending her last day of Senior Kindergarten as we speak. YIKES. Mommy's not ready for this...

So, that being said... She has had the same teacher for Junior and Senior Kindergarten, as did my son. I wanted to do something a little more special as a year-end gift for her. Here is a picture of what I came up with... an altered clock for her classroom...

WE HAVE A WINNER!

2009-06-24T11:03:00.001-04:00

Just waiting on some details from G. WIll post the candy to go out once I get more info!

Ok people...

2009-06-24T02:08:00.001-04:00

Over 30 more visits since my last post. NO ONE WANTS BLOG CANDY? Do I have to go and grab something and post a pic of it in order for someone to nab it?

C'mon! First person to email me with BLOG CANDY in the subject line!

(If you have tried to email, it's obviously not working. Please leave me a comment!)

WOW!

2009-06-22T23:43:00.003-04:00

So, I was watching my visitor counter and thinking I should do something when it hit 3000. Well, evidently I missed that and am now at 3018! So, first person to send me an email using the "drop me a line" feature, with the answer to the following question, gets some blog candy!

What was the name of the April Kit from Scrappin' Great Deals?!?!?!?!?

Two new classes coming up....

2009-06-22T12:00:00.006-04:00

On June 27th, I will be teaching a "Cricut 101" class. This class will be geared for those wondering if they should buy a Cricut, plus those that own a Cricut but are not using it to its full potential!

June 27th 10am - 12pm. $15.

On July 11th, I will be teaching this beautiful class using Bo-Bunny Unforgettable papers! And, the 2 two-page layouts that you will take home will be Unforgettable! This paper line is delicious! Add some bling... Mmmmmmm.

July 11th 10am - 1pm. $25.

YAY!

2009-06-22T09:49:00.005-04:00

Ever since we moved in to our home 3.5 years ago, I have hinted (ok, more than hinted) that I would LOVE to close off our livingroom from the kitchen/diningroom. It was a space we hardly used because we also have a familyroom off of the kitchen. Well....

Shawn has begun the work! Currently I have a small "nook" in the basement that I work at, but he now needs a space for a home office. So, he's taking that and I'm getting the livingroom! I can not wait!

Here's some pics. The work just started this weekend...

HEY LADIES! You know who you are...

2009-06-18T23:40:00.001-04:00

Thanks for an awesome class tonight... even though we did run over time and have issues with that last one!!!!! :)

Next class at Scrappin' Great Deals - June 18th

2009-06-09T08:11:00.004-04:00

Here are pictures from my next class that I will be teaching at Scrappin' Great Deals. We will be making 4 "gift card holder" cards and a photo wallet that also holds a gift card. Great for Father's Day and end of year Teacher, Bus Driver, Crossing Guard, etc Thank You gifts! Thurs, June 18th 6:30 - 8:30. $20.
Visit SCRAPPIN' GREAT DEALS to register!

Another proud mommy moment!

2009-05-31T20:10:00.004-04:00

Tanner had his Special Olympics track and field meet last Friday. What a blast! He participated in the 50 M run, the 4 person relay, the standing long jump, and the softball throw...
oh, and a few events of his own that he made up, like the tire roll and the net untangle!

Can you tell that there were a few moments that he got tired of sitting around waiting? What a funny kid!

REMEMBER: Let me win, but if I can not win, let me be brave in the attempt!

One Proud Mama

2009-05-22T11:54:00.007-04:00

So I got a call the other day from my daughter's SK teacher. She wanted to invite us to the next Recognition Awards Assembly at the school. YUP. My darling daughter was receiving an award! So, at the tender age of 5, she has received a Certificate of Achievement in LITERACY! I am so proud! She is an awesome reader, but she was chosen for this based on her writing skills!

Here's a pic of her with her award. Watch for the layout to follow soon! Have a great weekend everyone!

REVEAL TIME!

2009-05-13T00:23:00.008-04:00

This month's kit contains:
Basic Grey "Marrakech" Collection Pack:

- 18 beautiful papers - a Moroccan-inspired collection of patterns and prints in fiery crimson, fresh basil, patina green, curry yellow and peacock blues
- One Sheet of cordinating Alphabet Stickers
- One sheet of coordianting cardstock stickers
- Two pieces of Bazzill BLING cardstock in matching jewel tones
- A selection of Basic Grey painted brads from the Marrakech collection
- A selection of Basic Grey painted buttons from the Marrakech collection
- Coordinating paper flowers by Imaginisce in blue, and rouge
- White paper flowers by Kaiser - perfect for coloring with ink, paint, glimmer mist, etc

All for the great price of $24.98! Get 'em while we got 'em!
Visit SCRAPPIN' GREAT DEALS either online or in person!

Ok, here's MY reveal... don't forget to check out the following blogs for more inspiration from this kit! Kim, Heather, and guest designer Sarah.

My poor neighbours. They have plastic shopping bags stuck in their trees. Not very green, I know. We have limited the bags to in the house now!

Ah, MY GIRL! We had a fabulous day at the park and I LOVE these shots! I used one of the patterned papers that had white on it to mat all of the photos. I used white foam thickers that I inked for the title...

Tanner LOVES the trampoline my parents bought the kids! I really wanted the focus to be on the photos. I didn't end up matting them, but I did use a dark blue Tombow marker to outline them all.

On this layout, I cut a circle out of the orange bling cardstock and then I cut a circle a little bigger from the patterned paper. I turned that circle over and inked it with orange ink. I then pieced it back together and then offset the orange bling circle slightly.

I don't even know if Elsie was really sad in this photograph, or if she was just tired of posing for me while I played with my new camera! Either way, I LOVE this shot! I knew it had to be a large, one-photo layout! (Oh, and I'm not quite sure what's going on with the colour in the pic of the layout... but you get the idea!)

This started out as a "simple" card in my head, but then the layers just grew and grew... but I am happy with the end result. I just have to stop designing in the wee, wee hours of the night.

FREE SHIPPING EVENT!!

2009-05-11T10:48:00.003-04:00

SCRAPPIN' GREAT DEALS
is starting your week off with our FREE shipping Event!!
Orders of $45 or more will receive FREE shipping within Canada!
To redeem, type coupon SHIP (all cap's) into coupon box
coupon box is located at bottom of your shopping cart

Offer valid for orders within Canada only, until Monday, May 18th @ midnight! preorder items, classes, gift cards are excluded from this offer
one coupon/customer.

AND ONLY THREE MORE DAYS TO THE MAY KIT REVEAL!

It's almost here!!!!

2009-04-30T10:20:00.002-04:00

SCRAPPIN' GREAT DEALS
NATIONAL SCRAPBOOKING 4-DAY SALE EVENT!!

Save 15% store-wide + receive a bonus gift for any order of $25 or more!!
We have approximately 150 free items to give away this week!!
So while supplies last, if your purchase is $25 or more (before taxes),
you will receive a free gift from us :)

To redeem your 15% coupon:
Type the code CELEBRATE (all cap's) into the coupon box found at the bottom of your shopping cart
Offer valid both online & in-person!
Sale in effect until Sunday, May 3rd @ midnight!

Important - please read:
Bonus items will be given away only while supplies last
Exclusions from 15% discount: preorder items/Classes/gift cards
Offer cannot be combined with any other discounts/offers
One free gift per customer

Pick-up orders please allow a minimum of 24-48 hours for order processing
we will email you once your order is available for pick-up - thanks!

CELEBRATE THE SUN WITH SGD!

2009-04-18T16:41:00.002-04:00

FREE SHIPPING OFFER!

We are celebrating Mr. Sun, Sun, Mr. Golden Sun ...

WHAT A GORGEOUS DAY!!

Orders of $40+ (before taxes) will receive Free Shipping!*

to redeem, once your shopping cart is $40 (subtotal) type code SHIP (all cap's) into coupon box!

(coupon box is located at bottom of shopping cart)

*offer valid for orders within Canada only
* Valid until Sunday, April 19th @ midnight!
one coupon/customer
preorder items are excluded from this offer

SCRAPPIN' GREAT DEALS

Now open Sundays - 11am - 4pm!!
Join us for FREE make n takes all day Sunday April 19th!!
No need to register - just come!!

It's back!

2009-04-16T00:05:00.002-04:00

The "12 Hour Sale" that is. And remember, it always lasts longer than 12 hours!

Gear up for some incredible deals this week at SCRAPPIN' GREAT DEALS...

over 130 items currently on sale + purchase $75+ (before taxes)
and you will receive a FREE MME 12x12 Scrap-Kit - while supplies last!!

We have 85 of these GORGEOUS kits to give-a-way!!

Click here to view sale items

Offer valid both online & in-person

Bonus Kit offer & sale prices in effect until Friday, April 17th @ 9pm

Only while supplies last!! Sale items will not be backordered

Free Kit offer does not include classes/pre-order items or gift cards

pick-up orders please allow a minimum of 24-48 hours for order processing - we will email you once your order is available for pick-up - thanks!

Card swap

2009-04-14T14:51:00.004-04:00

So, I am in a card swap with 10 others. We will each make 2 cards and then receive 20 back (including 2 of our own.) I said I would make "new baby" cards, so I decided to do one girl and one boy card. I was rushing somewhat to get them done, as my parents are visiting soon - YAY! I'm happy with the boy card, but messed up a little on the girl card. Forgot to heat emboss BEFORE using the versamark to make watermarks on the rest of the paper. Ooops, yellow embossing powder everywhere! So, I turned the card over and dry embossed with the Cuttlebug instead. I really needed some texture on that paper!
Anyway... here they are...
BTW, how do YOU photograph your creations? I am having a hard time lately making the photos look good... and, no it's not the new camera! :)

Ok, ok, ok

2009-04-13T09:10:00.001-04:00

So, several of you that I have met IRL have told me "I would not have recognized you from your blog picture." Ok, so I cheated. I used a picture that I liked from June 2004. I've changed it. Better now?!?!?!?!? ;)

The wait is over!

2009-04-08T22:42:00.005-04:00

Ok, so here are the details and pictures from the class I will be teaching at SCRAPPIN' GREAT DEALS on Sat, May 30th from 10 to 12:30pm. Cost is only $25 AND you will receive 10% off any regular-priced in stock items you purchase that day, AND (yes, another and!) 50% off any ONE album! WOWZA! What a deal!
*Please note that payment is required at the time of registration. Payment by phone may be done by VISA/MasterCard 519-473-5751.

Thought I'd share some pics I took Sunday...

2009-04-07T09:45:00.005-04:00

BEFORE ALL THE SNOW!
Elsie had a friend sleep over Sunday night, and the two of them along with Tanner, had a blast playing out in the backyard. I just clicked away with my new-ish camera and had 145 pics by the time I was done! Don't worry, not going to share them all! :)

Tanner has a new obsession. He LOVES to use plastic shopping bags like "windsocks." I just kept clicking away and got some really neat shots. I won't bore you with them all!

I can't believe how much my little girl is growing up!

Tanner enjoying a bit of swinging and then soccer.

Here we go... REVEAL DAY!

2009-04-02T00:15:00.006-04:00

SCRAPPIN' GREAT DEALS
Kim’s Kreative Kit
April 2009

“Flowers And Flutterbys”
This month’s kit includes:

- Three DOUBLE SIDED pieces and 3 die cut pieces of 12 x 12 patterned paper from Making Memories’ Flower Patch line
- Three co-ordinating pieces of 12 x 12 Bazzill textured cardstock
- MM Flower Patch Embellishments - Buttons, die cuts, printed blossoms/butterflies, felt shapes
- MM Flower Patch die cut Journalling tags
- Co-ordinating American Crafts “Thickers” (either pink, or white)
- Co-ordinating ribbon/rick-rack

IT IS GORGEOUS! And, you get all of this for only $25.98! Don't miss out on this one. It will definitely go fast!

I hope I have inspired you with my projects!
And make sure you check out what Kim, Heather, and Amy
have done as well! :)

I wanted to keep this layout simple to showcase the photos of my daughter posing on the rock! I used a monotone colour scheme, and used dark brown fluid chalk ink to colour the letters and distress the ribbon and journal sheet edges.

Firsts. Gotta love them! And, who knew I would ever use flowers and butterflies on a layout for my son! I love how it turned out! On this layout, I again used the fluid chalk ink in alabaster and pink coral to colour the letters and the parenthesis. I also used liquid pearl in two different colours on the journal spot, the border strip, and the butterfly.

Once again, I used ink to colour the letters and I used TONS of stickles on this page! Can you find all the glittery spots?!?!?

Ok, hopefully my mom isn't checking out my blog today... and doesn't until Mother's Day! This card will be for you, Mom! Happy early Mother's Day incase you are having a peek! Love you!

I LOVE how this card turned out. I used three different colours of markers to colour the letters. I really like the effect I ended up with. And, the flowers were so fun to make. Also, what card would be complete without stickles?!?!?

This was such a fun project! I found a tutorial for it and fell in love! One piece of double-sided patterned paper. That's it! ONE. Ok, and some cardstock to put the photos on and the make the band... but really! And, it literally takes about 15 mins to make!

Here is with the band off and the wallet somewhat "open." When it is closed, it measures maybe 4.5 x 3 inches!

There are 6, count them, 6 different places that you can hold photos in this little wallet. If you cut pieces of cardstock for mattes, you can hold 12 photos 4 x 2.5 inches in size!

Another hiding place!

Here's the back when the wallet is unfolded.

Who knew there would be a photo there?!?!?!?!?!?

Oh! And another!

The back with the last hidden photos pulled out.

And, from the front so that you can see my gorgeous kids!

It's almost that time again!

2009-03-30T08:05:00.004-04:00

REVEAL DAY, that is!

For now, here is a SNEAK PEEK!

Make sure to check back on Thursday to see the GORGEOUS kit that Kim has put together for this month for SCRAPPIN' GREAT DEALS. I had such a great time playing with this one. Hmmmmm, flowers and butterflies on a boy page. Who knew?!?!?!?

OK, so you HAVE to check out this sale...

2009-03-25T22:02:00.005-04:00

TWO-WAY SALE EVENT IS HERE!!

A sale like no other ... this week's sale at SCRAPPIN' GREAT DEALS is geared to fit everyone's budget & needs!
You decide what you need (OK, want!) & how much you want to save!

Here is how it works:

DISCOUNT A: Purchases of $35.00 - $119.99 (before taxes) = discount of 15%
DISCOUNT B : Purchases of $120.00+ (before taxes) = discount of 20%

How to redeem your discount with on-line orders:

Discount A: your shopping cart is between $35-$119.99 (before taxes) type code DISCOUNT A into coupon box.

Discount B: your shopping cart is over $120 (before taxes) type code DISCOUNT B into coupon box.

Coupon box is located at bottom of your shopping cart - coupon codes are all caps.
One coupon/purchase/customer.

Sale is valid until Saturday, March 28th @ 4:00pm - this week we are open until 10pm Friday, March 27th!

Offer is valid for both in-person & on-line shoppers!!

Important - please read:
- offer cannot be combined with other store coupons/discounts
- one coupon per person/purchase - cannot be used towards classes/gift cards/pending orders
- pre-order items are excluded from this offer
- pick-up orders - please allow a minimum of 24 - 48 hours for order processing - we will email you once your order is available for pick up - thanks so much :)

OMG! I have to share what my hubby made!

2009-03-23T22:08:00.004-04:00

This is so cool! My hubby, Shawn, has always made things for me (ok, us), but now he is starting his business of furniture making (and a whole bunch of other stuff.) You have to see this carving that he did for a co-worker. It is AMAZING! All from a photograph!

Here we go again...

2009-03-23T21:37:00.007-04:00

Ok, so this is a STAR ALBUM that I made at a crop last month. They are SO MUCH FUN! Looks can be deceiving, until you open it up! And, the results are spectacular - if I do say so myself!
So, how do you make one you ask? You head on down to SCRAPPIN' GREAT DEALS on May 30th from 10am - 12:30pm, and I will show you how! The class is only $25 AND you will receive 10% off all store purchases for that day AND 50% off any one album purchase! Who could ask for more?!?!?
Now, the album we are doing will be with different papers, but I will post pics of it as soon as I can. Trust me... the papers are GORGEOUS! Make sure you check back here, or over at SGD!

WOO HOO!

2009-03-20T09:21:00.004-04:00

I am so excited (again!) And, once again it has to do with SCRAPPIN' GREAT DEALS!

Remember back in October when I applied for their design team? Well, at that time I was told I didn't make the team, but I came "this" close. Recently I started working p/t at the store, was a guest design team member for March, and have been talking with the owner about teaching classes. And, now I have received an invitation to join the design team! I had to think about it... for all of about 2 seconds! I have my hands on April's kit and I just have to say "You MUST come back and check it out on reveal day!" Oh, but I also want you to check back to my blog before then! :)

I have some things in mind for classes, but I will cover that in another post. For now, don't forget to check out the "12 hour" sale over at SCRAPPIN' GREAT DEALS! It ends tonight at 9pm. Maybe I will even be the one to fill your order!

CHECK IT OUT!

2009-03-19T09:36:00.001-04:00

The 12 hour sale is now on at
SCRAPPIN' GREAT DEALS!

I'm trying to set up my blog so that I can copy the info right here for you...but for now, please follow the link over to the site to take advantage of all the great deals!

P.S. Oh, and it's not really a 12 hour sale... it's on now and ends FRIDAY at 9pm!
Don't miss out!

I've been holding out on you...

2009-03-16T11:26:00.003-04:00

Ok, so some of you know!

I have MORE exciting news! I've recently started working part-time at one of my favourite places in the whole wide world! SCRAPPIN' GREAT DEALS! Sheila and the rest of the gang are so much fun, and when surrounded by all the scrapping goodies it really doesn't feel like "work." So, if you are in the Kilworth area make sure you stop by to say hello!

I will also be teaching some classes there, so watch for future posts about dates and times!

My new "true love."

2009-03-10T12:48:00.004-04:00

So, I had a Wish List and at the top of it was a new camera. I have been using the same 4 mega pixel camera for the past 5 1/2 years, but find that now that I tend to use larger images on my pages, I wanted something more. I searched...and fell in love.
I've been saving since Christmas, and recently we sold an old 1928 Ford Model A. I think DH was tired of hearing me talk about the camera, because just hours after the car was towed away he told me to go buy it! I "heart" him so much.
So, without futher ado, here is my new baby...

I'm still learning all of the bells and whistles...and I fully intend to scrap some pages of the first few (awful) photos!

See you soon!

Thank you to SGDs

2009-03-10T12:43:00.004-04:00

Just wanted to say "thank you" again to the team at Scrappin' Great Deals for allowing me to be part of the March Design Team. I had a great time working with the kit. And, I am having an even greater time WORKING in the store! That's right! Sheila and I talked some time ago, and I am now working p/t at Scrappin' Great Deals! It's so much fun to go to work and be surrounded by SO MANY BEAUTIFUL THINGS...and the stock isn't bad either! LOL
And, now that Sheila has linked my blog to her website, it's going to make me keep on top of it!
So, I have some ideas swimming around in my head that I am going to present to Sheila for some classes, so please check back often! I also LOVE to hear from those that have visited, so please feel free to leave a comment on this, or any post! If you go back through my older posts, you will see some of my more recent work. I am also in the process of updating my slide show. And, lastly, you can find some links on the right hand side to my galleries, favourite blogs, and other great sites! Hope you enjoy!

Well, technically it is March 5th...REVEAL TIME!

2009-03-04T14:29:00.026-05:00

Scrappin’ Great Deals’
Kim’s Kreative Kit
March, 2009

This month’s kit includes:

- Nine pieces of 12 x 12 patterned paper by American Crafts, from their “Moda bella“ line, and/or their “Everyday” line (may not be exactly as shown above)
- Two pieces of 12 x 12 Bazzill bling cardstock in “Diamond white”
- A selection of co-ordinating Prima Hydrangeas
- Glitz “icing” bling in black, white pearl, and pink
- Journaling cards and/or die-cut mini labels from Jenni Bowlin studio
- White alphabet cardstock stickers by Doodlebug Design Inc.
- An entire sheet of die cut shapes by Doodlebug Design Inc.
- A generous sprinkling of buttons and baubles from Kim’s stash

All this for only $25.98!

I had a great time putting these layouts together with the March Kit. It doesn't hurt any that I am working with my FAVOURITE subjects! I hope you enjoy the kit as much as I did, and get some inspiration from the following layouts! (click on any picture to make it larger)

In addition to the materials found in the kit, I also used a piece of Core- dinations ColorCore Cardstock and some stickles on the Primas.
For this layout, I added two different colours of Bazzill Cardstock and some stickles on a few of the buttons.
For this layout I only added the black cardstock and some black acrylic paint!
The only thing on this layout that was not included in the kit???? The photos and the DOODLING!
Again, I used some Core- dinations ColorCore Cardstock. I love how the centre colour comes through when the paper is sanded.
And, finally, on this layout I added two different colours of Die Cuts With a View (DCWV) cardstock.

Enjoy creating!

Well...

2009-03-02T22:38:00.003-05:00

The layouts for SCRAPPIN' GREAT DEALS are done! Can't wait until March 5th for the big reveal! I had a lot of fun working with this kit. Lots of colourful paper and great embellies. Hope everyone will enjoy what I've done! Check back March 5th to see!

So, you want to know?!?!?!`

2009-02-28T17:10:00.006-05:00

Ok, I will spill now...

I've been asked to be a Guest Design Team Member for March for SCRAPPIN' GREAT DEALS!
So, I'll share a little sneak peek with you, but you'll have to make sure to check back on March 5th for the reveal! Andrea will be busy making all cards with the kit (make sure to check out her blog ), I'll be doing all layouts, and Kim will be making a little bit of this and that! (I'll probably do some this and that too with all the gorgeous leftovers!)

So, here it is...

I have an exciting secret!

2009-02-14T00:46:00.003-05:00

But, I'm not quite ready to share...you'll just have to check back again later!

HERE IT IS!

2009-02-09T21:20:00.002-05:00

The class info, I mean!
When: Feb 22, 2009 from 1 - 3pm.
Where: My place! Drop me an email if you need the addy, but I am in Southwestern, Ontario.
What: We will make 6 gorgeous coordinating greeting cards and a beautiful matching bag to take them home in...or present as a gift!
How much: $20 will be the class fee. Light refreshments will be available.
Pre-registration is required. Register early, as there are a limited number of spaces available.
This is also available for purchase as a kit, if the class does not work for you. Again, there are limited kits available. Cost is $18 per kit.

WOW! Another done so soon!

2009-02-03T16:15:00.002-05:00

I can't believe the speed in which I have layouts coming together! I made Sue at Memories on Main St wait so long for the last two layouts that I think she may fall over when I show up with this one already! Hope you like it!

Excited!

2009-01-29T13:05:00.002-05:00

So, some of you may remember that awhile back I applied for my first ever design team. I didn't get a spot...came "this" close (LOL), but *wait for it* I have been asked to be a guest design team member for March! Well, orginially it was February, but I thought I had a lot going on, but that's not the case now. But, that is also another story for another day... Either way, I am pretty excited about getting the opportunity to design for Scrappin' Great Deals!

WOOT WOOT!

2009-01-26T16:41:00.003-05:00

The mojo is back!
Sue at Memories on Main St in Lambeth, had given me some more layouts to do for her. I finally was able to get going on them. I was stuck on one and it shut me down for both! Once it was done, I put the other together in about an hour!
Here they are, hope you like them!

Do I feel terrible...

2009-01-04T23:31:00.001-05:00

and I don't mean sick!
I can't believe it has been more than a month since I posted here! Just goes to show how busy we all get over the holidays! Hoping to get all caught up again once the kiddies are back in school. Until then, HAPPY NEW YEAR!

Well now...

2008-11-24T15:41:00.001-05:00

Since only two of you left a comment, I can only do the right thing and send you both a little blog candy! Sarah and Tara...please email me your mailing addys! I know I have them here somewhere, but it will be quicker this way! :)

BLOG CANDY!

2008-11-23T09:59:00.001-05:00

Ok, a lot of you are visiting, but no one is leaving any comments! Not a requirement of course, but always nice to see who has stopped by! So, in celebration of my almost 500th visitor, I am giving away some blog candy. Still working on what that will be, but I have a few more visitors to see first to reach 500. So, leave a comment on this post and I will do a random draw after I see 500 people have visited!

Feeling ducky...

2008-11-14T23:12:00.004-05:00

Here is another cake I "whipped up" the other night. A good friend of mine was heading to a craft fair and offered a corner of her table for a cake and my business cards. When I dropped the cake off at her place, her cleaning ladies went CRAZY for it! One of them took my business card and was asking "could I do this, could I do that, could I do these colours", so hopefully a sale will come from that! Guess we will have to wait and see what happens!

And here they are...

2008-11-11T11:35:00.004-05:00

So while I was away at my weekend scrapbooking retreat, I was able to make a simple thank you card for a friend that helped me out a lot with getting this blog going! Thank you so much, Tina!

I also got both Tanner and Elsie's 5th Birthday layouts done. I am planning on doing an album for each of them and have a one page layout for each special day. I will do their birthday party layouts separately in their chronological albums.

Sue had this layout on display in her store, Memories on Main St, and I just had to scraplift it. I was doing the layout by memory, but I am happy with how it turned out. I had made Tanner a "star" card for his birthday (he loves stars), and he is signing STAR in the picture.

Elsie had her Princess Party for her 5th birthday. The dress in the bottom right is the front and back of the party invite.

And, I got two more kits done. A good friend is attending as a vendor at a craft show this Friday. She has offered to take some of my kits and a diaper cake for me. Guess I'd better make sure I stop by and visit her there for awhile!

FALL SPLENDOR

TRICK OR TREAT

Coming soon...

2008-11-10T19:34:00.001-05:00

I was able to work on a few new kits this weekend. I ran out of natural light before I could photograph them, so I am hoping to get some pictures posted tomorrow. Make sure you come back and check them out!

In the meantime, I am also working on setting up a separate blog to showcase the items that I sell. Watch for www.tansiedesign.blogspot.com coming to a computer near you soon!

Hope you all had a great weekend!

Another assignment done! :)

2008-11-05T15:08:00.005-05:00

Sue at Memories on Main St in Lambeth, asked that I put together a two-page layout that she could teach as a class. I was up for the challenge! I went to see her today, and unfortunately she has sold out of some of the paper! But, as soon as she gets it back in stock, she will be offering the class. So, if you like the layout make sure to contact Sue and sign on up!
Note: the colours washed out a little in the photo, I'm thinking it was the lighting in the room...sorry!

Just thought I would share...

2008-11-02T22:22:00.004-05:00

Nov 1 - 7th is National Down Syndrome Awareness Week.

As a mother to a child with Down syndrome, I want you to know that I welcome questions about DS. I would rather you ask than not be certain. There are so many stereotypes out there that are untrue. We do not think of our son as disabled, he is just differently abled than many other children. But, he still loves to do things other children do! Some of his favourites are watching movies, swinging, swimming, being read to, and listening to his iPod. Oh, and teasing his little sister!

...my little cuties

2008-11-01T14:26:00.005-04:00

Here we are. Another Halloween come and gone. We always wonder whether all the activity will be too much for Tanner, but after passing on a few houses, he was hitting every one! He even got mad when we tried to turn the wagon around to head back down the street! You see, there was one house left we hadn't gone to (no one was home)!
The girls had such a blast, too. Elsie and Sydney were both Princesses - Cinderella to be exact, and Sydney Rose was a "good" witch. I'm so happy that all had so much fun!

See? Sometimes you've got to show off! :)

2008-10-31T14:26:00.008-04:00

I'm trying to find a way to earn a modest income doing something I LOVE to do...papercraft and create gifts and such. I make sure that I post a picture of everything I make that I like, just in case someone sees it and decides they like it too. So, that being said...Kim saw the mini diaper cake that I had made as a gift for a friend of mine, and asked if I could make one for her for her neice. Of course I said yes! I'm really happy with how this one turned out! It has 18 size 3 Huggies diapers, a size 6 month sleeper, 2 size 6 month long-sleeve turtleneck tops, 3 bibs, one pair of sock booties, a toy phone, and a teddy bear.

Halloween already!

2008-10-30T15:59:00.005-04:00

Elsie's class had their Halloween party today since they won't be at school tomorrow. I had bought a bunch of lollipops for her and Tanner's classes. Sat down Tues night to make the holders for them...and realized after I finished Elsie's that I had used all of them in hers! Ooooops! Not a project that you could easily remove them from. So, plan B...made up some little baggies of goodies for Tanner's class from the candies I had already purchased to give out to the trick-or-treaters.
Hope you enjoy the projects!

Not quite sure...

2008-10-30T10:52:00.003-04:00

Sue at Memories on Main St gave me some product the other day and asked that I do a layout she can display in the store. The idea is to let customers see what can be done with it, to help move the product. I'm not quite sure I am happy with the layout, but it is done. In hindsight, I wish I had not done the watermark stamp, or found a pawprint one to use. I was thinking that the circles would compliment the circles on the patterned paper.
Anyway, please let me know what you think! Thanks!

In Heaven

2008-10-30T10:44:00.002-04:00

So Elsie was absolutely beside herself yesterday.
It was her actual birthday. I can't believe my BABY is 5! ACK!
Anyway, I digress...at playgroup, the kids were to dress up to have a Halloween party. What Elsie didn't know is that they were also having a mini-celebration for her. Well, with the snow and sickness going around, Elsie was the only one there! She was treated like a DIVA. She had the lady running the program, and the volunteer all to herself! They did a few crafts, ate some candy, and then even walked around the centre delivering candy! Elsie was in her Cinderella costume so of course was ooohed and ahhhed over everywhere she went. I don't think her head came down out of the clouds until later that afternoon.
As an aside, we had to do new Cinderella hair. We discovered at the birthday party that Elsie really does not want to wear a wig. I think we did a pretty good substitute job...

We did it, we did it, we did it...hooray!

2008-10-28T16:54:00.004-04:00

Made it through Elsie's birthday party, that is!
I'm pretty sure that all of the little princesses had fun. There was certainly a lot of squealing going on. I can't believe how excited Elsie got when she received a card with Princesses (and glitter) on it! The crafts turned out awesome! I had taken a 6 x 8 canvas and attached a border of pink cardstock (just at the top) as a matte. Then I used the crop-a-dile to punch a couple of holes, and attached a ribbon for hanging. I heat-embossed with black glitter embossing powder the letters for each girls' name (that I had cut with my Big Bug), and attached those ahead of time to the border. Each girl had a cup full of goodies to decorate their matte with. I took a photo of Elsie with each of the girls, and then printed them while the party went on. I put them in the frames while the girls ate their cake and, along with a small loot bag, that was their "party favor." I think they turned out great!We also played KISS THE FROG PRINCE, but I used pink heart stickers instead. No kissing in my house yet! After all, she is only just 5! :)

WOO HOO!

2008-10-25T12:40:00.003-04:00

Gotta love Blog Candy!

Kim at Kim's Kreative Korner (see my favourite blogs list) wanted to know how we use up our extra/mismatched alphas. She had some goodies and Sheila at Scrappin' Great Deals threw in a $10 gift certificate. Well, my idea was to do ABC books. It was a randow draw, but my name was picked! YAY! Check out the goodies headed my way. I can't wait to play...I so love Halloween.

blog etiquette

2008-10-25T12:29:00.002-04:00

Help. I want to say thank you, and that sort of thing to those that leave comments on my blog. How do I go about doing that? I doubt people are going to come back and read the comments so I'm guessing I don't leave them there? What do you do with your blog comments? Leave me a comment and let me know! :)

Better luck next time...

2008-10-25T00:14:00.003-04:00

Well, I got the email today. I didn't make the Design Team at Scrappin' Great Deals, but I was one of the finalists close to the top! When I emailed them back to say thanks again, I hinted that maybe they would consider a guest spot in the future! LOL I also offered to teach a class or two still since I live close by. I am excited to see the winning application. It is always great to have new sources of inspiration!
So, thanks for all of your support! I'll be spending the next few weeks concentrating on getting some kits completed, and completing the "class" and "display layout" that I am doing for Sue at Memories on Main St.
Then, off to Grand Bend for a weekend of scrapping Nov 7-9th. Can't wait!

Another crafty day...

2008-10-23T08:13:00.007-04:00

So, I thought I'd better post this here before I add it to my facebook album, since it is for one of my facebook friends!

I started making diaper cakes several years ago. I love them! Personally, I think they are soooooo adorable, and they always get a great response from the recipient and other guests! This one is a smaller version of what I usually do. Inside this cake there are 16 size 2 diapers, a hooded bath towel, 2 burp cloths, 3 bibs, 4 washcloths, 2 pairs of sock booties, and the teddy bear! Yes, all in that "little cake". Hope you like it!

Here are some of the larger version ones that I have made. Some of these even include sleepers!

Cinderella

2008-10-21T13:35:00.008-04:00

Elsie has decided that she wants to be Cinderella for Halloween. And, since her birthday is 2 days before Halloween, she also wants to have a Princess Party. Oh, and her Weds morning playgroup is dressing up the Weds before Halloween (which happens to be Elsie's birthday) and having a party. Soooooo, mommy and Elsie trialed her hair today. It did not go as planned. Off to WalMart to buy a long blonde wig. We spent the last half-hour fiddling and I think it looks not bad. Of course I will need to "finesse" it for the actual events, but at least I have a foundation on which to build!

The application is in...

2008-10-20T23:16:00.003-04:00

and now we wait.

I ended up making a new card to submit. I just couldn't decide which to pick, and I needed a new baby girl card for a friend. For the altered item I went for the clock, and I used the Sweet K layout I did for a friend of mine awhile ago. We keep saying I should submit that one to some magazine calls, too! Maybe one day!

So, here are the things I sent in..

Am I Crazzzzzzzzzzzzzyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyy?

2008-10-17T21:24:00.005-04:00

One week from tomorrow I am opening my home to a dozen 4 to 7 yr olds! Darling daughter has decided she MUST have a Princess Party. Ok, she went to one in February and has been talking about it ever since...

So, the tiaras and wands are purchased. I bought some 6 x 8 canvases for each of the girls. I am going to make a cardstock matte for them to decorate, and then I will add a picture to each one of that child and the birthday girl in their finest Princess attire. Then I'll take a bite out of the canvas with my Crop-A-Dile, add some ribbon and call it a goodie bag! We may even play pin the KISS ON THE FROG if we have time. I'll make sure to post pictures. For now, here is one of the invite. I used the New Arrivals cartridge to cut the top of the dress, added the bling crown and stickles, and then sandwiched thin bling-encrusted mulberry paper in between. I'm quite happy with how they turned out...
The info is printed on to vellum and attached with bling to the back...

Tis' the Season!

2008-10-17T14:44:00.010-04:00

It's hard to believe, but Christmas will be upon us before we even know it! I have always wanted to try altering a glass ornament, so figured why not today? Now I have one teacher/EA/bus driver/crossing guard gift done!

So, all I did was take an empty, plain glass ornament from Michaels. I removed the top before I started.

Then, I cut 1/2" by 6" strips of co-ordinating patterned papers. I took each strip of patterned paper and rolled it tightly around a pencil. I added a gluedot to keep them from unravelling, but I have seen them left to unravel and that effect looks great,too.

Then you just need to fill the ornament with your paper rolls. It's entirely up to you how many you want to add! I think I used about 20 rolls. Next pop the top back on, add a rub-on and a ribbon, and you are done!

I used a rub-on that looked like it would curve nicely around the ornament. I worked from the centre out when rubbing it on.

On my ribbon, I tied it at the bottom and added a gluedot to keep the tie at the bottom. The entire project took me around 15 mins. Quick, easy, and beautiful!

A quick and easy Gift Card holder

2008-10-17T10:01:00.001-04:00

I was taught to make this gift card holder by a dear friend of mine. It is perfect for those hard-to-buy for on your gift lists. And, perfect for holding those new Tim Horton's gift cards I love to give to the bus driver at Christmas!

I have been asked by some of the Moms in my Wednesday moms group on how to make them, so I thought I would share the instructions here. These gift card holders are great because the gift card is held in by the ribbon! No lost cards from loose envies.

The paper begins as a 5 1/2" by 4 1/4" piece. You will be able to get 4 of these from one 8 1/2" by 11" sheet of paper.
1. Score the piece at 1/2" and again at 2 1/2".
2. I then embossed the paper after I had cut and scored it. It will just fit in the Cuttlebug embossing folder. (optional, but looks great!)
3. Fold over and crease where you have scored at the 1/2" end. With the "outside" area facing you, put glue on the 1/2" fold area. Also glue along the bottom edge of one end of the paper. Fold at the 2 1/2" score mark and make an envelope.
4. I then crimped the bottom.
5. Use a 3/4" circle punch and punch a HALF circle at the open end. Punch a 1/8" hole (reg hole punch) underneath the first punch.
6. Insert the ribbon from the back all the way through the front hole. Match up the ends of the ribbon to have a somewhat uniform length.
7. Then, you insert the gift card and allow it to push the ribbon inside the envie. Tie the ends in a bow, and viola!

WHEW!

2008-10-16T16:28:00.001-04:00

I think I am FINALLY figuring this out. It kind of makes me embarassed as I am usually pretty quick to pick up on this kind of thing! But, I guess we all need to start somewhere!
And, I almost have my galleries up-to-date as well!
You can check out my layouts here.
and my altered items, cards, and paper crafts here.
I hope you get a chance to take a look and then come back and leave me a comment. Any and all feedback is always appreciated. (Especially if you can teach me how to make the link work! For now, you will have to cut and paste it into your browser! Sorry!) Or, I guess you could always just check out my slide show on this blog! :)

2008-10-16T16:20:00.007-04:00

...and again

2008-10-09T15:09:00.000-04:00

Geez, another post so soon?

So, I am trying to get this blog up and running. I am trying to figure out how to add a slide show and photos that aren't HUGE! I am hoping to apply for a DT position with a great store in Komoka, Ontario - Scrappingreatdeals.com - I just found out they are adding a DT member, but submissions have to be in by Oct 20th. YIKES! Time to get crackin'!

On another note, I have sold 4 of the kits that I made up for Barb in Michigan. The last show was a little slow, but I think they were overloaded with vendors. I plan to tweak the layouts a bit, do a few more new kits, and we will see what November brings.

I was in Memories on Main St in Lambeth, Ontario last week. Sue is so sweet. We got to talking about my kits "adventure" and she has asked me to do a 2 page layout that she can use as a two hour class! Also, she gave me some product to do a layout display for in the store. I'm so excited that all of this is happening, but I sure hope I don't disappoint!

OK, off to wait for the kids from school. Then I'll be back to figure out how to jazz this blog up and add some scrappy stuff!

WOW

2008-10-07T20:57:00.000-04:00

Well, this is a little sad. I started this blog so long ago, but then life got in the way.

But, so another day begins. A fresh new start to get to those things we didn't do yesterday, or the day before.

I wanted to start this blog for a few reasons. I wanted somewhere to journal and I've always found it easier to open up to a keyboard, even knowing others would have access to my thoughts.

I also wanted to have a place to create interest about scrapbooking. It is certainly not just a hobby anymore. It is a way to carry our memories forward for our loved ones. There are so many stories of my grandparents, great-grandparents, etc that I will never hear. As a kid, they were my grandparents. As I got older and they got sicker, I realized that they were people. They had lived a life similar to mine. I would love to be able to sit back and flip through albums, read their thoughts and hear their stories. I will treasure the few that I have. And, I will quiz my parents to the point of annoyance! :)

Finally, I wanted a place to display my creations. I spend so many hours seeking inspiration and then trying to put on to paper the vision in my head. I don't want the finished products to stay in an album in my basement! So, I invite you to take a look and leave comments if you wish. Good or bad, I can take it!