Heartfelt Sentiments

Technique Blog Hop

2012-01-15T06:00:00.002-06:00

There are 13 of us highlighting the Argyle technique this month. This technique is shown on page 91 in the 2011 Autumn/Winter Idea Book. If you have arrived here from Cherri's Blog, you are on the right track. Initially I couldn't see past the use of a triangle for the pattern, but thanks to some inspiration from participating Consultants, I decided to step outside the box.

I decided to use the "Love Life" stamp set - one of my favorites - specifically, the large heart image and small star. Stamping the heart, top to top and bottom to bottom, I created this background.

Then, using one of the stamp sets which coordinates with our exclusive Cricut cartridge, and coordinating Dimensional Elements, I created the focal point on this card. I didn't want to detract much from the background so kept it simple and added a little bling.

Thanks for stopping by. Enjoy circling around the hop. Now, hop on over to Tonya's Blog where you will find some additional inspiration for this technique.

Happy Hoppin',

January Stamp of the Month - "Cherish the Day"

2012-01-02T13:25:00.000-06:00

This month's Stamp of the Month comes with multiple images, easy to switch out for any special occasion and it can be yours for just $5 with a $50 purchase! What a great offer! It is available only during this month.

I loved using the Believe paper packet for this card. While it easily identifies with Christmas, it can also be made pretty versatile. The Green Sweet Leaf star and Sky polka dot patterns are absolutely adorable for any occasion!

If you would like to add this stamp set to your order this month, let me know! You can always buy it outright for $17.95 but would't you prefer to get it for just $5 with a $50 purchase?

Enjoying my last day of Christmas break,

Happy New Year!

2012-01-01T08:00:00.003-06:00

Happy 2012! What a blessed day today is - the start of a new year! We brought in the new year at church in a fun and God-filled way! There is no other place I would have rather been!

I always love a fresh start and that's definitely what the new year promises us. What we do with the new year is up to us. I hope you plan on making the most of YOUR new year!

I enjoyed making these cards using the negative part of "2012" cut out from our exclusive Art Philosophy Cricut cartridge. I cut out the letters and then used the remaining piece as a template.

I sponged a little bit of Sky Ink on the numbers and then used the snowflakes, stamped in Lagoon, to create the texture on the numbers. A little saying and a few snowflakes later and I was done! I love how simplistic, but beautiful these cards are! I also made a few Christmas cards using this same process!

I must confess that while I came up with this idea about the 2012 card all on my own (LOL), the original idea, using this process was CASEd from Lisa Stenz! I love her artwork! (Click here to view her blog.)

Check back tomorrow for artwork using the Stamp of the Month. I delayed that post today so I could wish you a Happy New Year first!

Here's to 2012...

Heading into a new year!

2011-12-31T19:54:00.000-06:00

What a blessed Christmas we had. It was an enjoyable holiday for us, complete with Jesus Christ.

Here are a few layouts I made, commemorating our fun, using the Believe Level 2 paper packet and coordinating Stickease. I totally stole two of these layouts from my dear friend, Sheila Wilkerson (click here to view her blog), and the other from the Close To My Heart art department. Gotta love being inspired through contacts within CTMH. I put a few finishing touches on myself. I will take credit for that. LOL

God has truly blessed us during these past eight months and we are looking for many more of God's blessings in 2012! Until the new year...God bless!

Love,

Technique Hop - Glitter Gel

2011-12-15T06:00:00.003-06:00

Everyone loves "bling" but what better time than Christmas to add some glitter and shine to your projects?! This month we are highlighting Close To My Heart's Glitter Gel available in three different colors: Silver, Bronze and Red and each tube is just $2.75! What a steal!

You can find a list of the participating Consultant at Debi's Blog. If you have come from Wendy's Blog you are on the right track! This blog hop is one big circle so start here and continue moving to check out this month's creative uses of "Glitz".

I had fun decorating this My Creations Card Box with the Believe paper packet! I just love the Santa's on there! Would you know I didn't do a bit of stamping to decorate the box but instead used our Exclusive Art Philosophy Cricut Cartridge?! I used the Cricut to cut out the focal points on the top of the box; the Christmas tree and star tree topper. I also used a piece of Desert Sand to accent the tree trunk and finally used the Red Gel to highlight ornaments on the tree.

Next, I used all three Glitter Gels to accent these gift tags. I used our Dimensional Elements to stamp images on there. The nice thing about our Glitz is that it serves a similar purpose to other "bling" but goes a lot further. Gotta love "bling" that lasts...and lasts...and lasts...

The Glitter Gel is super easy to use and has a fine tip. You can apply it to the finest of areas or spread it across a larger image. Before using it, it is wise to shake the bottle - allowing the liquid and glitter to mix - before using. Be sure to allow ample drying time so that you don't mess up your creation! The amount of drying time required various depending upon the humidity of the room and the amount of application to your project.

I would love for you to create an item and incorporate the Glitter, sharing it with me when you are done! Let me see what awesome creation you came up with! Feel free to leave a comment and then click on over to Cherri's Blog to see what she's created!

Happy hoppin'!

Youth Fall Retreat 2011

2011-12-13T08:00:00.001-06:00

My hubby and I had the honor of accompanying our youth group to a fall retreat last weekend. We were not sure what to expect as I have never been to a church camp before but it was a blessed time.

The retreat was held on the property of Texas Bible College. It is located in Columbus, TX in a secluded area of the town on over 1,000 acres. The facilities of the college are nice. I was quite impressed. We stayed in dorm-style rooms stocked wall-to-wall with bunk beds. All 19 of us girls were in one room. We had an enjoyable time.

Besides fellowship and receiving great messages, there were also opportunities to play. We played sand volleyball, rode go-carts and...I got to ride a horse for the first time!

Yes, I had the tallest horse out of everyone in the group - don't ask (lol) - and had to get a little assistance climbing up. LOL It was a great experience and I enjoyed sharing it with my husband. Of course, my husband had to be entertaining before the ride. I was cracking up!

I am thankful for the opportunity given us to attend this event with the youth at DFW New Beginnings. Pastor Huch's ministry has been such a blessing in our life since God directed us there and we enjoy giving of our time to the youth Pastors and the youth.


Acting silly as we climbed a tree to pose for some fun pictures!

Be blessed!

Extremely humbled

2011-12-12T08:00:00.001-06:00

I am happy to share that I have been nominated for Teacher of the Year on my campus this year. I received notification a little over a week ago, from my Principal, and had to submit an application this past Wednesday. I and another Math teacher were selected as nominees and our applications were put on display Friday for our coworkers to view.

This poster was placed outside my classroom door on Monday when the administration visited my first period to announcement the nomination. I didn't expect the presentation and my students were excited for me. Of course, they asked if we could have a party. LOL

Voting will take place this coming week with the announcement to be made after Christmas break. Regardless of the outcome, I am thankful for God's favor (especially if you knew of the story behind the last six months) and for the recognition. It is a humbling experience and one that I am extremely thankful for.

It is also rather crazy that I was selected as Teacher of the Year 10 years ago at Beasley Middle School in Palatka, Florida.

Faith & Family Day at Cowboys Stadium

2011-12-11T08:00:00.002-06:00

Our worship band played at Cowboys Stadium on Saturday for this fun event. We attended and enjoyed touring the stadium.

People stood in line to take a picture with the cheerleaders. We just caught them in the background. :0)

In the post-game interview conference room. He's got his game face on. LOL

Go Cowboys!

Super Bowl trophies in the background.

Rowdy the mascot

The Cowboys play the Giants tonight for first place in the division. We will be there cheering them on!

December Stamp of the Month Blog Hop

2011-11-30T20:02:00.006-06:00

Welcome to our Stamp of the Month Blog Hop highlighting this month's stamp set, "Mad About You". It comes with 14 different images and can be used for much more than the obvious Valentine's events.

We are a small and intimate hopping group this month but have some great items to share with you using this stamp set! The hop is a great big circle, so start here and make your way around or feel free to jump from site to site with the list provided below:

1. Melissa Robinson – http://mlisrobinson.blogspot.com/

2. Sheila Wilkerson – http://ezscrapbooks.blogspot.com/

3. Judy Faye Garner – http://judyfaye.blogspot.com/

4. Kim McConnell – http://kimsnewcreations.blogspot.com/

5. Cherri Hardcastle – http://craftwithfeeling.blogspot.com/

If you have arrived here from Cherri's Blog, you are on the right track! So... let's get started!

This month, and through the inspiration of my friend and downline, Lulu (click here to visit her blog), I used this month's set to create a gift card holder - perfect for this time of the year, in preparation for Valentine's day, or for any event worth celebrating.

It measures small in size - with the main piece being 4 3/4" x 7 5/8". Use then score that piece, along the long side, at 3 1/8" and 6 1/4". That creates a trifold that you can decorate until your heart's content.

I incorporated our very popular and gorgeous Roxie paper packet and used coordinating colors of cardstock and black ink to finish off the holder. Velcro provides the closure and...what is the pocket made of?

I used a SEALED standard-size envelope, adhered the flap and then cut it in half. You can make two out of each envelope or...Lulu glued the two envelopes together, gluing them both to the insides of the holder (it doesn't open fully like this one), so that two pockets are created. One pocket can be for the card and the other pocket for a card for your message! With my variation, I thought the message could be written on the other panel of the holder. EITHER WAY...CUTE and simple way to give a giftcard!

Thanks for stopping by! I hope you've enjoyed this creation and will take some time to move about the hop. I would love for you to leave a comment if you so feel led. Now...hop on over to Sheila's Blog! I know she has something great in store for you!

Happy hoppin'!

Ghosting Technique Blog Hop

2011-11-15T06:00:00.002-06:00

Welcome to our Technique Blog Hop! This month there are eleven of us highlighting the "Ghosting Technique" as shown on page 45 in the Autumn/Winter 2011 Idea Book.
This blog hop is a great big circle so you can start wherever you want and continue through to see all the fabulous artwork incorporating this technique. If you would like to start from the beginning, please visit this link. While there, you will also find a listing of all participants and their blog addresses if you should get lost or want to reference a blog along the way. Let’s get started!

If you are coming from Rachel's Blog, you are on the right track!

I used the adorable, "Down by the Sea" stamp set (C1451) to highlight this technique. I have had it since the summertime and had yet to use it. I loved the images on it - my dream job would be to work with ocean life - so I just had to have it! It was fun to break it out of the envelope and smell it (lol). (If you haven't smelled a brand new stamp set from CTMH you are missing out!)

I incorported the Dreamin' paper packet, wanting to use the Pacifica color to give the idea of an "ocean". The "floral" b&t paper also lent itself to look like creative vegetation on the ocean floor. In any case, I thought it was a fun use of this stamp set.

It was super easy to do this technique, embossing with the Clear Detail Embossing Powder and applying Pacific with a Sponge Dauber. I am looking forward to seeing the rest of the creative artwork using this technique.

Happy hoppin' as you make your way to Judy Faye's Blog! Feel free to leave a comment. I would love to hear from you!

Stamp of the Month Blog Hop

2011-10-31T21:13:00.001-05:00

Welcome to our Stamp of the Month Blog Hop highlighting this month's stamp set, "Cherish the Day". This stamp set allows for some great versatility so hop with the seven of us and see what creativity we have to share with you!

This hop is a great big circle, so feel free to follow the links around or you can see the list of participants below:

1. Melissa Robinson - http://mlisrobinson.blogspot.com

2. Cherri Hardcastle - http://craftwithfeeling.blogspot.com

3. Tonya Whitehurst - http://heartandsoulscrappers.blogspot.com

4. Neely Dean - http://neelydean.blogspot.com

5. Kim McConnell - http://kimsnewcreations.blogspot.com

6. Michelle Battitori - http://michelleshandmadeworld.blogspot.com

7. Judy Faye Garner - http://judyfaye.blogspot.com

If you have arrived here from Judy Faye's Blog, you are on the right track! So... let's get started!

I love these cute tickets but I wondered what I was going to do with them. I did end up incorporating the Harvest Happiness stamp set and Dreamin' paper packet to make what I feel is a "fally", autumn card. (Yes, fally is a word! LOL) What made this card even better and Faster.Simpler.Easier... I was able to cut the ticket and leaf images out on the Cricut using our amazing Art Philosophy cartridge! Gotta love the time it saves me in creating!

Be sure to add this stamp set on your shopping list this month! I am anxious to create some other fun items with it, for various occasions throughout the year.

Thank you for taking the time to stop by. If you find anything inspiring about this card that you would like to comment on, I would love to hear from you!

Now hop on over to Cherri's Blog where you will find another inspirational use of this stamp set!

Happy hoppin'!

October Technique Blog Hop

2011-10-15T06:00:00.004-05:00

Welcome to our Technique Blog Hop! This month there are twelve of us highlighting the "Masking Technique" as shown on page 15 in the Autumn/Winter 2011 Idea Book!

This blog hop is a great big circle so you can start wherever you want and continue through to see all the fabulous artwork incorporating this technique. If you would like to start from the beginning, please visit this link. While there, you will also find a listing of all participants and their blog addresses if you should get lost or want to reference a blog along the way. Let’s get started!

If you are coming from Tracey's Blog, you are on the right track!

Masking is a technique I learned over 13 years ago at a Close To My Heart event. However, it has continued to evolve over the years and can vary in many ways. (I'm sure you'll see that to be true as you make your way through the hop.)

I decided to use the masking technique with the stars, creating my own patterned paper. Using our exclusive Cricut Cartridge, Art Philosophy, I cut out four images slightly larger than what the stamp set called for. Then, I put some light adhesive on the back of each star, and use the Spritz Pen to spray Reinker over the entire sheet of Colonial White cardstock. Upon removing the stars, they left the Colonial White stars, perfect for me to stamp inside of with the Pacifica ink!

The stamp set is from the Elementals Workshop-on-the-Go kit. I love the saying you can make, combining two images, to create, "Celebrate everyday moments". Using "celebrate" and one of the smaller, ringed images, I added some additional texture to the background. To finish it off, I added some Colonial White buttons, threaded with Colonial White Waxy Flax.

I love the cleanliness appeal of this card and had fun incorporting a variation of the masking technique. Have fun checking out what the other ladies created!

Now hop over to Cherri's Blog and see what beautiful artwork she has for you!

Happy hoppin'!

Need a CUTE Shopping List?

2011-10-12T07:00:00.001-05:00

Wow! Life really set in when school returned to session. It has been a blessed year but extremely BUSY! I have my hands in quite a few things - from church obligations to Close To My Heart activities, spending time with my hubby and just life's everyday happenings.

I am not creating as often as I would like - I would do so everyday from sun up to sun down if I had the chance (lol) - but I am still creating. However, I have neglected posting my creations so I'm going to get caught up and be better about sharing my artwork with you.

I am thrilled to be working closely with one of my friends, Angie, who has a little croppin' spot in south Arlington. Later this month, I am offering this cute notepad as a FREE workshop if you join us for a Friday evening crop (otherwise it's just $5)!

I love the NEW Believer paper packet! It screams some fun holiday colors but could be incorporated into other themes as well. Of course, it works GREAT with this month's Stamp of the Month, "Holiday Magic".

These spiral notepads are fun to decorate - and easy, too - and you gotta love having a coordinating pen to match! I figure this is a great time to start making out your Christmas list and this will definitely serve that purpose.

If you live in the Dallas area, contact me for additional details about attending the event on Friday, October 28th beginning at 5 p.m.

October Mini Stamp of the Month Blog Hop

2011-09-30T21:00:00.002-05:00

Welcome to our Stamp of the Month Blog Hop highlighting this month's stamp set, Holiday Magic. We are thrilled to showcase some fun uses for this gorgeous stamp set!

Below you will find a list of the participating Consultants involved in this hop. Feel free to move freely through the hop or follow the links and make one big circle.

1. Melissa Robinson - http://mlisrobinson.blogspot.com/
2. Sheila Wilkerson - http://ezscrapbooks.blogspot.com/
3. Neely Dean - http://neelydean.blogspot.com/
4. Kim McConnell - http://kimsnewcreations.blogspot.com/
5. Judy Faye Garner - http://judyfaye.blogspot.com/
6. Michelle Battitori - http://michelleshandmadeworld.blogspot.com/
7. Etta Langford - http://ettalangford.blogspot.com/
8. Tawnya Payton - http://paytonsprettypaper.blogspot.com/
9. Cherri Hardcastle - http://craftwithfeeling.blogspot.com/
10. Tonya Whitehurst - http://heartandsoulscrappers.blogspot.com/
11. Lisa Lawson - http://somescrapstuff.blogspot.com/
12. Lorus - http://becauseofourchildren.blogspot.com/
13. Missy Kosena - http://scrappingplace.blogspot.com/

If you have arrived here from Missy's Blog, you are on the right track! So... let's get started!

Of course this stamp set screams Christmas! I love the cute and various images contained in this stamp set and look forward to creating additional projects with it.

My favorite image is of course, the stocking! The different "tops" you can put on it are adorable and stamp so nicely!

I used the Elemental paper packet to highlight this stamp set. It is specifically designed to be Christmas, but I think it works with these colors - Cranberry and Pacifica - and others contained in this paper packet (Olive and Sorbet or any combination of these colors). I used our exclusive CTMH Cricut Cartridge to cut out the tag. Gotta love how easy that makes for cutting out images!

Supply List: X7141B Elemental Level 2 Paper Packet, Z1103 Cranberry Grosgrain Ribbon, Z1361 Red Brad Assortment, Inks: Olive, Pacifica, Cranberry.

Thank you for taking the time to stop by. I have seen some gorgeous artwork using this stamp set so be sure to make your way around the hop. I would appreciate a comment or two, if you so feel led. :0) It's always fun to see what people think about what I create.

Now hop on over to Sheila's Blog where you will find another inspirational use of this stamp set!

Happy hoppin'!

Typeset Layouts

2011-09-29T20:21:00.001-05:00

I wasn't really sure of this paper packet initially, even being an Educator. I think my mind went directly to the assumption I needed to have school age kids in order to use it. :0) I have since changed my mind.

A couple of weeks ago I held a workshop and taught these two layouts incorporating the Typeset paper packet, coordinating embellishments and the Typeset Complements Canvas shapes (aka Stickease). We had a great time creating them and I am looking forward to putting some photos on them this week.

My husband and I both have earned our Masters degrees over the last 5 years but have no pictures to commemorate our achievements or the hard work it took us to earn them. I told him we are going to dress up one day and take some photos, for this achievement.

I hope you are enjoying a fabulous week! Happy Friday eve! :0)

Technique Blog Hop

2011-09-15T06:00:00.000-05:00

Welcome to our Technique Blog Hop! This month there are 14 of us highlighting the "Multicolor Motifs” Technique as shown on page 110 in the Autumn/Winter 2011 Idea Book! This blog hop is a great big circle so you can start wherever you want and continue through to see all the fabulous artwork incorporating this technique. If you would like to start from the beginning, please visit this link. While there, you will also find a listing of all participants and their blog addresses if you should get lost or want to reference a blog along the way. Let’s get started!

If you are coming from Kelly's Blog, you are on the right track!

I made this card using one of our Consultant-exclusive stamp sets which we can use for prizes and little goodies at our events. I love this adorable stamp set - it is so versatile - and really allows for this technique.

The "Just a little somethin'" focal point on this card is one stamp set. But...using this technique, I was able to color in different parts of this image using three different ink colors. Here is a close-up.

Isn't it cool? I inked the "Just a little somethin'" message in Chocolate ink, the heart in Pacifica, and the swirls in Sky. What a fabulous technique to use so they all stand out separately! I incorporated the gorgeous new paper packet, "Dreamin'"

Thanks for stopping by! Please continue onto Rebecca's Blog where you will find some additional artwork highlighting this technique! Be sure to leave a comment and let me know what you thought of my variation and happy hopping!

Lovin' Roxy

2011-09-14T12:38:00.000-05:00

One of our gorgeous new paper packs is called "Roxy". It has some beautiful color combinations that I would have never considered. (Gotta love when Close To My Heart designs beautiful paper packets that are out of the ordinary!)

I have had the pleasure of creating these cute cards (at least I think they are cute) using the new paper pack and some of our other newest products.

I hope you enjoy them! Have a wonderful Wednesday!

Elementals Notepad & Matching Pen

2011-09-06T12:47:00.000-05:00

I love making little inexpensive but CUTE gifts for people! This decorated notepad and matching pen were made for one of my recent hostesses, Amanda! (Hi, Amanda!)

Using a mini spiral notepad, I removed the coiling, lined up my new piece of B&T with the original front and repunched the holes. I then reinserted the coiling and started decorating!

I used the adorable Hooray Bouquet stamp set, Lagoon and Pacifica ink pads, and a fuzzy brad out of the Mini Medley Sunset Collection.

I hope you're enjoying this short work week!

Birthday Celebration with my Friends

2011-09-02T22:16:00.000-05:00

My birthday was in mid-August and the time has flown by since then. (I'm sure heading back to work helped push the time along.) :0) I was blessed to have enjoyed a yummy dinner, in great company, with several of my team members and other scrappin' friends. We gathered at Red Robin for dessert and laughter on August 18th.

Amanda & Bertha

Teddi & Kimberly

Allison & Lily

Me, Xellina & Kristi

I was given this adorable card, made by Xellina, and signed by all the ladies in the pictures above. It is in honor of Ricky the Raccoon who inhabited our patio during the cold winter months. (I actually came close to one just over a month ago. He was by my car in the parking lot when I went out to get something. I figured they would be trying to stay cool in this warm weather.) Isn't he cute?!

I also received a WONDERFUL GIFT - that I am not going to share with you (lol). It was thoughtful and unexpected and something much appreciated. I still haven't used it. I am saving it for something special.

There is not many things that are more important to me than my friends. I love spending time with them.

MUCH THANKS TO AMANDA, XELLINA, BERTHA, KRISTI, TEDDI, KIMBERLY, ALLISON AND LILY FOR HELPING ME CELEBRATE MY BIRTHDAY AND FOR GIVING ME SUCH A THOUGHTFUL GIFT. I APPRECIATE IT AND AM THANKFUL TO KNOW EACH OF YOU.

Big hugs!

September Stamp of the Month MINI Blog Hop

2011-09-01T18:01:00.002-05:00

I love sharing artwork and providing inspiration with my Close To My Heart friends/Consultants. I am blessed over the years to have met many women who share the same love for this company, the products we represent and this craft.

This month I am happy to be joined by eight Consultants who are sharing their artwork using the September Stamp of the Month, "Limited Edition", which has 21 images. You can get this promotional stamp set during this month only for just $5 with a $50 purchase! What a buy!

This hop is one big circle. Just click and follow the links or feel free to refer back here. Here is a list of the Consultants and their blog addresses:

1. Melissa Robinson - http://mlisrobinson.blogspot.com/
2. Michelle Battitori - http://michelleshandmadeworld.blogspot.com/
3. Neely Dean - http://neelydean.blogspot.com/
4. Cherri Hardcastle - http://craftwithfeeling.blogspot.com/
5. Lorus - http://becauseofourchildren.blogspot.com/
6. Sheila Wilkerson - http://ezscrapbooks.blogspot.com/
7. Lisa Lawson - http://somescrapstuff.blogspot.com/
8. Tawnya Patton - http://paytonsprettypaper.blogspot.com/
9. Marianne Hancock - http://thescrapbookchick.blogspot.com/

If you have arrived here from Marianne's blog, you are on the right track! It's time to begin/continue hopping!

Initially I was not sure what I wanted to create with this set, being that it's a little more limited in the images, but then I thought...oooooh...CRICUT... How awesome is it that I can so easily incorporate our NEW Cricut Art Philosophy catridge, exclusive to us?!

I cut the main template out as well as the decorate circles for the flaps, the Christmas tree, the tag (to stamp on) and the CUTE flower (poinsettia-like) for the inside of the card! It was so easy to assemble! While I created this first item with a Christmas-theme in mind - to nicely include a gift card inside - out of the Elemental paper packet, I am anxious to try out and experiment with other possibilities.

Thanks for stopping by. Please visit Michelle's blog to see what cute creation she has designed with this stamp set!

As an incentive for providing some feedback and your ideas for other "uses" for this "box template"...simply provide a suggestion in the comment section below. I will randomly draw a name based on the order the comment was submitted and announce the winner and the goodies they can look forward to receiving from me next week.

Happy hoppin'!

September Stamp of the Month Blog Hop

2011-08-31T20:02:00.001-05:00

Welcome to our Stamp of the Month Blog Hop! We are featuring the September Stamp of the Month (SOTM), "Limited Edition", a set of 21 images.

If you have come here from Brae's Blog you are on the right path! The blog hop is a great big circle, so you can start here and work your way all around. If you get lost along the way, you’ll find the complete list of participating consultants here.

This month we have approximately 61 Close To My Heart Consultants sharing their creations using this month's SOTM and other great CTMH products on their blogs. This is simple to do - just click on the link at the end of the post on each blog to move to the next one! Here we go!

I created this 6x6 card using our NEW Kraft Die Cut Cards & Envelopes. I incorporated the Elemental paper pack and Zip Strip (yellow border) as well as our NEW Milepost Shapes and Stars Dimensional Elements. The tag itself was cut using our NEW Cricut Art Philosophy catridge.

I had fun making this cheery card and hope you like it as well!

Thanks for stopping by. "Hop" on over to Mary's Blog to see her work! Be sure to visit all the Consultants at their Blogs to get some great crafting ideas and other fun ideas! Remember, the SOTM is only available until the end of this month!

Supplies used : X7141B, Level 2 Elemental Paper Packet, Z1474 Kraft Die-Cut Cards & Envelopes, Z1464 Milepost Shapes, Z21680 Stars Dimensional Elements, Pewter Brads, Inks: Pacifica, Sorbet, Desert Sand, Cranberry, 3-D Foam Tape.

Happy Hoppin',

Technique Blog Hop

2011-08-14T22:43:00.002-05:00

Welcome to our Technique Blog Hop! This month there are 13 of us highlighting the "Glossy Dimensions” Technique as shown on page 23 in the Autumn/Winter 2011 Idea Book! This blog hop is a great big circle so you can start wherever you want and continue through to see all the fabulous artwork incorporating this technique. If you would like to start from the beginning, please visit this link. While there, you will also find a listing of all participants and their blog addresses if you should get lost or want to reference a blog along the way. Let’s get started!

If you are coming from Marianne's Blog, you are on the right track!

I have been wanting to make a Recipe Box since they were released and never have. In starting a new school year next Monday, I thought the box, decorated with the NEW Elementals paper pack which coordinates with our school colors, would be perfect for maintaining student and parent contact records. And what better way to bling up the Alphabet Dimensional Elements than using this technique?

I was a little intimidate by the technique initially. While I loved how it looked in the Idea Book, I was a little hesitant on mixing Liquid Glass and Reinker! YIKES! But it worked out just fine and I'll look forward to using this technique again on future projects. (I was sure to rinse out the Craft Jar and my Embossing Tool immediately after use and wiped it dry with a paper towel. It is ready to use next time!)

Supply List: Z1322 My Creations Recipe/Photo Box, X7141B Elementals Paper Packet, C1464 Blue Ribbon stamp set, D1491 Hooray Bouquet stamp set, Z1680 Stars Dimensional Elements, Z679 Liquid Glass, Z1686 Cricut Art Philosophy Collection (CTMH Exclusive), Pacifica ink, Creme Brulee ink, Sponge Daubers, 3-D Foam Tape.

Thanks for stopping by! Please continue onto Kelly's Blog where you will find some additional artwork highlighting this technique! Be sure to leave a comment and let me know what you thought of my variation and happy hopping!

Open House - THIS Saturday, August 13th

2011-08-08T16:43:00.001-05:00

Open House - S. Arlington, TX
Cost: FREE
When: Saturday, August 13th - 1:00 to 5:00 p.m.
Where: Angie's Scrapbooking Shop, 5720 Forest Bend Drive Suite 101, Arlington, TX 76017
No RSVP is needed but it is greatly appreciated. If you RSVP by Thursday, August 11th, I will have an extra "goodie" for you as appreciation for your thoughtfulness.

Close To My Heart has released their new catalog and since we can’t contain ourselves, I am co-hosting an Open House at Angie’s Scrapbooking Shop on Saturday August 13^th from 1 – 5 pm. Be one of the first people to come see, touch and feel many of the new products!

We are offering the following:

New Catalog introduction, review of new products & FREE Make & Take – on the hour!
Demos of the new Cricut Cartridge – on the half-hour! The Cricut Art Philosophy Collection bundle has stamps and chipboard shapes to coordinate, not to mention the fabulous flowers that you can make!
Door prizes - every half hour!
First 10 guests to arrive receive a free gift!
Grand Prize to the person who brings the most guests and crops for the day! (Just $15 to crop! CROP SPACE IS LIMITED SO PLEASE RSVP IMMEDIATELY FOR THIS.)

I look forward to seeing you there!

Mini Stamp of the Blog Hop

2011-08-04T21:00:00.001-05:00

Welcome to our inspirational blog hop, where we are sharing creative ideas with you showcasing this month's Stamp of the Month. This month's Stamp of the Month is called "Wicked". It contains 9 images and is available for just $5 with a $50 purchase!

I have some wonderful Consultants joining me in this hop which works as a circle. So begin "hopping" and feel free to leave comments along the way. Here is a list of the participants and their blogs:

Melissa Robinson - http://mlisrobinson.blogspot.com
Neely Dean - http://neelydean.blogspot.com
Cherri Hardcastle - http://craftwithfeeling.blogspot.com
Lorus - http://becauseofmychildren.blogspot.com
Sheila Wilkerson - http://ezscrapbooks.blogspot.com
Marianne Hancock - http://thescrapbookchick.blogspot.com
Lisa Lawson - http://somescrapstuff.blogspot.com

You may have started here or may have come from Lisa's Blog. Let's get started!

One of the images I mentioned previously that I like most from this stamp set is the "honeycomb" image. It definitely makes for a fun background and will be very versatile. The "hats off to you" saying does is as well.

To add a little more texture to the card, I created the "stripe" on the Black cardstock using my Embossing Tool/Stylus (Z608) and the sanding block from our Sanding Kit (Z1294). Using my paper trimmer, I created the 1/4" stripes and then sanded them, exposing the white core in our cardstock. Too fun!

I decided to incorporate the "ghosting" technique, as highlighted on page 45 in the current Idea Book, with the "hat" image. Using the Versamark ink pad (Z891), I stamped the image on Desert Sand cardstock and then sponged on some green chalk to the image. It magically "exposed" the hat for this soft look. Then I stamped the stamp in black, over the chalked image to create a "watermark". To finish off the card I added a photo clip and some buttons.

This card was made based on the "Center Accent" pattern in Originals, page 13.

Thank you for stopping by. Now hop on over to Neely's Blog where she will show you her creative use of this stamp set! Happy hoppin'!

Me and the characters

2011-08-04T19:45:00.000-05:00

No, I'm not talking about my team members this time! LOL Just kidding, girls!

This was the first time visiting Disneyland, Disney World, California Adventure or Universal Studios that I had the opportunity for a photo op with so many characters! I loved every minute of it and can't wait to scrapbook these photos.

Goofy


	My Mom and I take a moment to pose with the Mickey statue in front of the Disneyland Hotel.

Awww...my niece and I with Mickey himself!

The girls with Hop!

Minnie Mouse

Curious George

Scooby Doobie Doobie Doo!

Fievel, from An American Tail, takes an adorable photo with my niece.

Dora with the kids!

Uh...I forget his name. Someone help! LOL

The girls take a picture with Woody Woodpecker and his better half.

You know I don't have kids when I had to check on the names of a couple of the characters. LOL What fun memories to scrapbook!

August Stamp of the Month Blog Hop!

2011-07-31T20:10:00.002-05:00

Welcome to our Stamp of the Month Blog Hop! We are featuring the August Stamp of the Month (SOTM), "Wicked", a set of 9 images.

If you have come here from Traci's Blog you are on the right path! The blog hop is a great big circle, so you can start here and work your way all around. If you get lost along the way, you’ll find the complete list of participating consultants here.

This month we have approximately 61 Close To My Heart Consultants sharing their creations using this month's SOTM and other great CTMH products on their blogs. This is simple to do - just click on the link at the end of the post on each blog to move to the next one! Here we go!

If you have been reading my blog much, you know I have loved our Clear Cards but I have a renewed love for them now because of Close To My Heart's exclusive Cricut cartridge, Art Philosophy! I always wanted a more decorative card, using the Clear Card as my base, but didn't want to spend the additional time to create them as so. With Art Philosophy...this dilemma is no more!

By pushing one button on the Cricut, and adjusting the size to 4 1/4", I was able to cut this cute scallop background! It took only as long as the Cricut cutting it! Gotta love that! I also used the Cricut to cut the 2" circle - no more Coluzzle or other "trying" cutting systems! And...check out the cube "frame" around the saying... Yep! You guessed it! Cut from the Cricut! I didn't have to worry about tracing a template, cutting neatly around it.. Again just a push of a couple of buttons and I was able to stamp this staying on it and use 3-D Foam Tape to attach it - for added dimension.

I am thrilled that this stamp set, which could be seen only as Halloween-themed, can be used for many other things as you see here. Because I do not already own "Mischief", the paper pack that would coordinate with this stamp set, I solely used cardstock. I stamped the "honeycomb" image in Black ink on Desert Sand cardstock and then stamped the cat in Black on Sunset cardstock.

But to add a more striking presence to the cat, I re-stamped the image using Versamark and then poured clear embossing powder and heat set it - for a glossy effect. This may be difficult to see through the photo but it did add to the overall appeal.

Thanks for stopping by. If you would like to check out my supply list and source of information, read below. Otherwise, "hop" on over to Doreen's Blog to see her work! Be sure to visit all the Consultants at their Blogs to get some great crafting ideas and other fun ideas! Remember, the SOTM is only available until the end of July, 2011!

Artwork created based on the "Up in the Corner" card design in our "Wishes" how-to program.

Supply List: Wicked SOTM (S1108), Z1686 Cricut Art Philosophy Collection (only available through CTMH Consultants), Black Ink, Versamark Ink Pad (Z891), Clear Detail Embossing Powder (Z821), Black Brad Buttons (Z1393), 3-D Foam Tape (Z1151), Cardstock colors - Barn Red, Black, Desert Sand & Sunset, Cricut.

Happy Hoppin',

Thankful for my "ears"...

2011-07-31T14:50:00.001-05:00

Mickey ears, that is!

One of the events I have looked forward to, since becoming a Director with Close To My Heart, is being treated to dinner and some fun during our National Conventions. This is just one of the perks of being a leader in this awesome company.

Upon arriving at this year's dinner, our places were reserved with Mickey ears which had been embroidered with our name! I was so surprised to see such a cool "place card", completely fitting for the location of our Convention, Disneyland! To accompany our "ears, we also had a beautiful, handmade card - decorated with rosettes made from our NEW exclusive Cricut Cartridge (stay tuned for more fun artwork made with it) - which contained our Twilight pass to California Adventure! Being a junkie for amusement parks, I could not have been more happy.

We were treated to a delicious dinner and dessert and then I met up with some friends and headed over to the park. We had some time to play and then were to receive a VIP viewing of the "World of Color". So, off we went to play! I was thrilled that all of us liked thrill-rides so we were sure to catch several of them!

My downline, Joy and I, with sportin' our Mickey ears.

Fellow Directors, Tiffany, Sharryl and Joy as we wait in line for the Little Mermaid.

Joy and Sharryl in their seashells, awaiting Ariel's adventure.

Sharryl and I became action figures for 2 minutes.

And then we met up with all other Directors for a rice krispy treat, shaped like Mickey - his ears dipped in chocolate, for the World of Color viewing. It was phenomenal!

Thanks to Close to My Heart for making this journey a wonderful one. If you would like to become a Consultant and eventual Director with CTMH, I'd love to share the opportunity with you!

Team Breakfast at Convention

2011-07-29T13:16:00.000-05:00

There is no better place to kick off Convention with breakfast with my team members and friends!

Maria Elena, Karen, Melissa, Joy, Michelle, Grissell, Lulu, Tawnya, Cherri, Debi, Debbie, Sheila, Lisa & Marianne

We joined Thursday morning at the Tangoroa Terrace (Disneyland Hotel) for some fellowship in anticipation of the new Idea Book and product release to take place in a couple of hours! We had a great time laughing and enjoying the good breakfast. The highlight was Joy receiving THREE PLATES of scrambled eggs instead of three eggs! We all found it quite comical.

Here are some fun photos from the breakfast.

Grissell, Tawnya, & Cherri

Debi, Debbie & Sheila

Lisa, Maria Elena, & Marianne

Joy, Michelle & Grissell

Melissa, Joy, Maria Elena, & Michelle


Debi & Debbie sportin' their ears

Michelle, Grissell, Tawnya, Cherri & Lulu

Lulu & Marianne

Join us at Convention 2012, in Dallas, where we are sure to have a Texas-sized team celebration! You have to be a team member to participate! SIGN UP NOW! :0)

I am extremely blessed!

2011-07-26T19:28:00.001-05:00

I have not posted since leaving for Convention for various reasons, all which have to do with numerous blessings - I was not sure what to share first! :0)

I had a blessed and enjoyable time at Close To My Heart's annual Convention in Anaheim, enjoyed spending time with my family afterwards, and am looking forward to great things on the horizon with my family, my profession and my business! I am thankful you are apart of my journey as a viewer of my blog.

Giving gifts is one of my joys of being a part of Close To My Heart, a company which allows me to make inexpensive, handmade gifts which are made from my heart. This year I had the pleasure of making quite a few gifts for my team members, fitting for the theme of our Convention - "When You Wish".

This was a fun layout I made (there's were made with some modifications) but I had fun making this Minnie Mouse, out of the Cricut, to coordinate with our Convention colors. (Oh! Did I mention that Close To My Heart has a new and exclusive Cricut cartridge?! It is totally awesome and I am awaiting the arrival of mine! I will be sharing more on the Cricut in the next few days so watch for those details!)

Then, I found these cute acrylic crowns at GASC and figured they would make a cute goodie for my team members - as bag tags - also to coordinate with the event colors.

This was a fun make 'n take we made at GASC and I solely participated with the idea that it too would make a great treat for my team members and friends. I used our scallop circle punch and circle punch to create the topper and one of my club members blessed me with Mickey Mouse image punch.

These clear bags can be purchased from ClearBags.com and were super easy to fill (with the help of my Dad). Thanks Dad!

I enjoyed distributing the team and friend goodies and appreciated the kind responses I received from all. It was fun to put a smile on their face. I do enjoy giving.

I am looking forward to a blessed and prosperous CTMH year! Keep watching my blog for important campaigns, creative ideas and so much more!

Convention 2011 Bound!

2011-07-12T07:00:00.000-05:00

I am California-bound attending this year's CTMH Convention in Anaheim, CA - specifically to be held at the Disneyland Hotel!

Tomorrow our Convention kicks off with Leadership Day - an opportunity for Managers and above to gain useful tips and information into training and leading our teams! That evening we will attend team events and get ready to find out all the new products and policies CTMH has to unveil to us!

The first official day of Convention is one of the favorites as the new Idea Book is released and there are thousands of screaming women demonstrating their excitement for the new products.

I'm looking forward to spending the rest of this week with my roomies/friends and family (my Mom is my downline and I'm rooming with she and my Dad during my stay). I will provide updates as possible and look forward to sharing and celebrating this new CTMH year with you!

Gift card holder

2011-07-11T14:58:00.001-05:00

I cannot believe I leave for Close To My Heart's 2011 Convention tomorrow morning! I can't wait! Every year it's a fabulous experience and I don't doubt that the same will be the case this year!

I have been working on some goodies for team members and roomies and will start releasing their photos during the week - after they are given to their recipients. I don't want to spoil their surprise!

When I went to the Great American Scrapbooking Convention in June, with some team members/friends, I purchased a pattern for this cute, sliding card holder. I just couldn't pass it up and love how it works! It's a gift for someone at Convention but I'm not revealing for who just yet!

I used our Irresistable Dimensional Elements for the cover to coordinate with the Sophia paper pack. I sponged the flower elements in Hollyhock, Blush and Pear. I couldn't resist adding bling (Bitty Clear Sparkles) to the center of the flower.

There is a little slider opening on the small strip of paper that you see the gift card attached to. It is held in place, to the back of the card, with a bigger brad - what allows it to slide in and out. A ribbon provides a great "pull" for the surprise.

Give me some time and I will share detail on how you can create one of these holders from scratch.

20-Year Class Reunion (and stamped goodies)

2011-07-08T19:46:00.000-05:00

So my blog is minus some CTMH artwork right now because I have been and am still preparing team and roomie gifts for Convention and those have to stay under wraps until next week! :) If I must say so myself...I am making some stinkin' cute things that I hope are a big hit with those who receive them! I will share them starting next Thursday so watch for them then.

In the meantime, I wanted to share a some more photos from my class reunion which was held this past weekend. This was a portion of the banquet room which was set up for our dinner/dance.

I made these simple treat boxes, filled with silver Hershey's Kisses (our school colors were navy blue, columbia blue, silver and white). Years ago, when CTMH carried rubber stamps, I was inspired to get a wood-mounted stamp set made without our mascot (thanks to my Mom). I used it as a simple focal point on the treat boxes and they really added to the place settings.

The cake was scrumptious! I don't know if and when I have ever had a cake that tasted that good - from the cake itself to the delicious frosting. People bragged about it all night long - especially my hubby.

This is our foreign exchange student, Mette, who traveled all the way from Sweden to celebrate with us!

Me with two of my great friends, Marissa & Jodie. I have lots of fond memories that include both of them.

Here's my hubby and I posing for a quick picture. He was a huge help with the event and I and everyone who attended appreciated him.


And here are the key components to the reunion's success - my dad, mom and sister!

Relishing in the memories of celebrating two decades since our graduation and looking forward to the next time we all gather together. I am blessed!

20-Year Class Reunion

2011-07-07T20:01:00.001-05:00

I hosted my 20-year class reunion this past weekend in my hometown in New Mexico. We had a great turnout with 67 classmates and their spouses, totaling approximately 120 people! It was a great time had by all.

One of the things that generated some good laughs upon everyone's arrival was them seeing their Senior yearbook photo on their nametags. All the girls had BIG, PERMED hair and the boys were mostly sporting a bow tie. It was hilarious!

Me with my sister, Stephanie, who handled registration.

Hubby was in charge of t-shirt distribution. The shirts came out NICE!

This is one of my best friends from elementary school, Jodie. Gotta love her sense of humor and fun laugh! She can always make me smile! She is CRAZY!

Me with the "boys". They are such a hoot and haven't changed a bit!


Tim had just registered. He was a hoot, too!

We had a FABULOUS time (with more photos to be shared in the upcoming days)! One of our foreign exchange students joined us from Denmark and others from New York, Nevada, Wisconsin, Michigan, Ohio, Oregon, Texas, New Mexico, and Colorado.

The July Stamp of the Month Blog Hop is HERE!

2011-06-30T23:44:00.001-05:00

Welcome to our Stamp of the Month Blog Hop! We are featuring the July Stamp of the Month (SOTM), "American Celebration", a set of 12 images.

If you have come here from Georgia's Blog you are on the right path! The blog hop is a great big circle, so you can start here and work your way all around. If you get lost along the way, you’ll find the complete list of participating consultants here.

This month we have approximately 53 Close To My Heart Consultants sharing their creations using this month's SOTM and other great CTMH products on their blogs. This is simple to do - just click on the link at the end of the post on each blog to move to the next one! Here we go!

This stamp set is absolutely adorable and I love how patriotic it is! It is definitely fitting for this time of the year as we approach Independence Day but several of the images are cute to use for other occasions throughout the year. I am sure their versatility will be shown throughout the hop but for my artwork, I chose to stay with the red, white, and blue...

For those who have been around me lately, they know I have been struggling with the technique of Paper Pleating. In fact, it's caused quite a bit of laughter. I have used up enough paper trying to figure it out and had finally given up - at least for the time being. Thanks to the Splitcoaststampers website, I was able to locate some directions for this technique and incorporated it into this card. And I must say...after following these directions, I determined that this technique is super easy and super cute! I will be incorporating it into other pieces of artwork in the near future.

I also incorporated a little bit of paper-piecing and used our 3-D Foam Tape to add dimension to some images. The White Hemp and blue button were just finishing pieces to this standard-size card.

Now "Hop" on over to Michelle's Blog to see her work! Be sure to visit all the Consultants at their Blogs to get some great crafting ideas and other fun ideas! Remember, the SOTM is only available until the end of July, 2011! Click here to see how you can get this stamp set at a discount or even free! I have additional samples viewable on my website! Click here to view them!

Supply list: American Celebration stamp set, Fanfare paper packet, Pacifica ink, Sky ink, Cranberry ink, White brads, Stylus, White Hemp, Blue Button, 3-D Foam Tape.

HAPPY HOPPIN'!

A fabulous time in New Mexico

2011-06-24T18:43:00.000-05:00

My hubby and I ended up driving to my hometown to celebrate Father's Day, our anniversary, and my Dad's birthday with my family. We had a fabulous time with family and friends. It was awesome!

We surprised my dad. He had no idea we were going. We started off the Father's Day celebration having breakfast with my parents, joining my grandparents for lunch, and then topping off the day with some delicious fajitas!

During the day we took some time to pick and clean up the apricots that had fallen from the tree. It was a windy day and so they kept falling off the tree and hitting us! Us "girls" took a moment for a pose.

Me, my Sister, my Niece and my Mom

While getting comfortable and preparing dinner, my Niece decided she needed a picture of us so this is what she took. She's too funny!

I was thrilled to spend Father's Day with my Dad.

Beyond Base & Shade Stamping Blog Hop

2011-06-15T06:00:00.001-05:00

Welcome to our Technique Blog Hop! This month there are 11 of us highlighting the “Beyond Base and Shade Stamping” Technique as shown on page 11 in the Spring/Summer 2011 Idea Book! This blog hop is a great big circle so you can start wherever you want and continue through to see all the fabulous artwork incorporating this technique. If you would like to start from the beginning, please visit this link. While there you will also find a listing of all participants and their blog addresses if you should get lost or want to reference a blog along the way. Let’s get started!

If you are coming from Kelly's Blog, you are on the right track! This technique is highlighted with the Bliss paper packet in the Idea Book but you will find variations for its’ use through this hop.

I used the Sophia paper packet (my absolute favorite), Friendship Blessings and Card Chatter-Sympathy to create this card, incorporating this month's technique.

I stamped the outline image in Black ink and the shade image in Blush. Using a Sponge Dauber and Hollyhock Ink to texturize the edges of the flowers. I used a BIG white brad, white button and pink button for the centers of the flowers. The flowers were stamped in second generation Pear and then inked in Pear on the edges.

Please continue onto Rebecca's Blog where you will find some additional artwork highlighting this technique! Be sure to leave a comment and let me know what you thought of my variation and happy hopping!

Thanks for stopping by!

Mix 'n Mingle = Magnets

2011-06-14T19:42:00.000-05:00

I was inspired, by Debi Barber, to make magnets from our Mix 'n Mingle Album and did so for my group this month. They were a big hit and I will be purchasing and decorating more!

The Mix 'n Mingle album has both cardboard and acrylix "pages" in it. The top 3 magnets have both layers on them - acrylix overlay on the cardboard. The bottom two have no acrylix overlay. We embellished them with the Mayberry paper packet and coordinating embellishments.

Notice the frame in the bottom right-hand corner. Do you notice the Sky stripes that normally don't exist in this striped B&T? I simply cut strips of Sky cardstock to cover the Olive stripes, allowing for a variation on the colors. Isn't that cool?! (You can even do this in Studio J, our online scrapbooking program.) It offers more versatility to our already fabulous B&T.

My club member, Terri K., made this hanging frame - switching up the color combo by using the back of the "quilted" B&T pattern, incorporating Honey. She made her paper flower look like a sunflower by using a Sponge Dauber, inked in Cocoa, and stamping it in the middle. The "hanger" for the frame was made by sticking a magnet on the back of a button. How CUTE!

Beverly Crawford and Kirk Franklin

2011-06-10T12:00:00.000-05:00

Wednesday we were able to spend time with my brother and sister-in-law, Todd and Beverly Crawford. Beverly is a gospel recording artist and was in town for vacation bible school at Dr. Evans church in Oak Cliff.

We enjoyed an afternoon of good food and fellowship at Pappadeaux and in the surrounding area and then joined them at the service that evening. Beverly did an awesome job singing her hit song, "It's Time for a Miracle".

Kirk Franklin was also at the service and Beverly is blessed by being on his newest CD. (Click here for some additional information.) He took a moment to take a picture with me.

Being silly, I asked Beverly to sign my CD and take a photo with me. LOL My husband and in-laws thought it was hilarious.

LOVED our day together!

Great American Scrapbook Convention!

2011-06-03T12:00:00.000-05:00

While I'm a diehard Close To My Heart scrapper and stamper, I still had fun fellowshipping with friends and other scrappers at the GASC in Arlington yesterday! I made some purchases that will make some CUTE Convention gift items!

I met up with friends I hadn't seen in a long time and shared the day with several of my team members, Xellina, Amanda and Kimberly. We had a great time looking at the different ideas while being surrounded by the excitement of the craft. It was a wonderful day.

Jubilation Stamp of the Month Blog Hop!

2011-05-31T20:00:00.003-05:00

Welcome to our Stamp of the Month Blog Hop! We will be featuring the June Stamp of the Month (SOTM), "Jubilation", a set of 24 images.

If you have come here from Paige's Blog you are on the right path! The blog hop is a great big circle, so you can start here and work your way all around. If you get lost along the way, you’ll find the complete list of participating consultants here.

This month we have approximately 53 Close To My Heart Consultants sharing their creations using this month's SOTM and other great CTMH products on their blogs. This is simple to do - just click on the link at the end of the post on each blog to move to the next one! Here we go!

This month I made two samples incorporating the Mayberry paper packet and Canvas Badge Buttons.


This is the fun 4 1/2 x 4 1/2 pattern from Wishes called "Folded Focus", page 56.

This card pattern was fun to try and looked great with this stamp set and paper packet! To texturize the Hollyhock carstock - to make it appear "leathery" - I simply rubbed my Hollyhock inkpad over the cardstock. It's that easy! I stamped the sun image on the button and then restamped it again on Honey cardstock. I cut out the sun and made it 3-D on the button.

This card is from Wishes. The pattern is called Center Circles from page 117.

I LOVE our white core cardstock which allows for some fun techniques! Using a stylus and my paper trimmer, I scored my paper in both directions every 1/4 of an inch and then sanded over it to create the textured circle. To create some dimension on the tree, I first stamped the circle image, which includes the tree, in Hollyhock ink on Colonial White cardstock. Then I stamped the image again on Olive cardstock and cut it out, making it 3-D with some Foam Tape. I did stamp directly onto the button with Cocoa ink but because of the small print in the stamp, it was not easily read. I restamped the "holiday cheer" image in Sky ink on Colonial White cardstock and cut it out and layered it on the button.

Now "Hop" on over to Dawn's Blog to see her work! Be sure to visit all the Consultants at their Blogs to get some great crafting ideas and other fun ideas! Remember, the SOTM is only available until the end of April, 2011! Click here to see how you can get this stamp set at a discount or even free! I have additional samples viewable on my website! Click here to view them!

Supply list: Jubilation stamp set, Mayberry paper packet, Hollyhock ink, Honey ink, Sky ink, Olive ink, Pewter brads, Stylus, Paper trimmer.

HAPPY HOPPIN'!

Bridal Shower meets Magnifique

2011-05-31T08:00:00.002-05:00

My friend (and downline) Xellina and her husband are renewing their vows and I am honored to be one of her bridesmaids. She never had the wedding that every little girl dreams of so on June 11th she'll have her chance.

This Sunday we hosted her bridal shower. Her colors are the Magnifique colors and Pear. I made all of the shower guests these party favors - filled with chocolate, of course. This stamp image comes from the "In the Month of February" stamp set and I used the Scallop Punch, in Pacifica, for the background.

I also decided to make her a homemade and paper-crafted corsage. I stamped the flourishes from the "Circle of Love" stamp set on a BIG bloom, incorporated some of the peacock feathers of the same set and topped it off with a smaller bloom, Pear button, and Pear, Lagoon, and Colonial White ribbon.

Both were a big hit and I was pleased with the results.

2011 NBA Playoffs

2011-05-17T07:00:00.001-05:00

I posted a little over a week ago about my hubby and I going to see the Lakers vs. Mavs series...although it didn't end up being much of a series. LOL The Lakers went down in four games - that was unheard of before this
year!

I had to face a little scrutiny from my hubby and friends for them being non-competitive but I enjoyed the playoff atmosphere all the same.

My hubby had to rub the "sweep" in!

The first night, game 3, we were joined by our friends Jason and Lisa. (The second night, although we didn't take pictures then, we were joined by Xellina and Daniel.) Both nights we were in great company and had a fabulous time!

Now it's down to the semi-finals with the Mavs vs. Thunder and Heat vs. Bulls. I am hoping the Mavs make it to the finals. It will create a fun atmosphere in Dallas!

National Scrapbooking Day 2011

2011-05-16T15:10:00.002-05:00

I had a great time celebrating National Scrapbooking Day with 4 other host Consultants and 10 of our guests! We joined at Stacy Furniture in Grapevine, TX for a fun day! There were door prizes, yummy food, and lots of creativity throughout the day!

I made these CUTE treat boxes from an 8 1/2 x 11" paper! I incorporated the CUTE stamp set from the You & Me kit (exclusive this month only) - love the ticket! I filled them with Laffy Taffy and gave them to each of our attendees! (I provided a velcro closure.)

My friend and fellow Consultant host, Karen Grafford, made these CUTE covers for microwave popcorn.

Here are a few photos from the day:

After the event, the 5 hostesses went out for a celebratory dinner.

Danyelle, Francene and Debi

Having a yummy dinner at La Hacienda Ranch in Grapevine, TX.
Left to Right: Debi, Danyelle, Francene, Xellina, Karen and Me (Melissa). My hubby joined us and took the photo.

Wherever you are, I hope you've been finding/taking time to papercraft! It's my therapy and I love doing so in the presence of good company!

Paper Piecing Blog Hop

2011-05-14T21:55:00.005-05:00

Welcome to our Technique Blog Hop! This month there are 13 of us highlighting the “Paper Piecing” Technique as shown on page 27 in the Spring/Summer 2011 Idea Book! This blog hop is a great big circle so you can start wherever you want and continue through to see all the fabulous artwork incorporating this technique. If you would like to start from the beginning, please visit this link. While there you will also find a listing of all participants and their blog addresses if you should get lost or want to reference a blog along the way. Let’s get started!

If you are coming from Kelly's Blog, you are on the right track! This technique is highlighted with the Mayberry paper packet in the Idea Book but you will find variations for its’ use through this hop.

I received a surprise graduation announcement in my mailbox the other day - one from (now) a young man who refers to me as "his first crush" (lol) - a little boy I used to entertain when his grandparents visited my family a long time ago... I was honored to be thought of and his grandpa's note, with the card, made me smile. I decided to use this opportunity to make him a card incorporating this month's technique.

I have had this stamp set, "You did it", for awhile but had yet to make a card with it until now. It totally screamed "paper piecing" to me! I stamped the cap and diploma first in Pacifica cardstock and then again in Cranberry. I cut out just the accent parts from the Cranberry images and glued them in the appropriate spots. I stamped the "Top of the Class" sentiment in black ink on White cardstock and then did so again on Pacifica. I cut out the "ribbon" portion of the image, from Pacifica, and glued it on the white image.

I love how the card came out - cute but still appropriate for a graduating, male senior. I know it will be a surprise for Matthew to receive this card from me. To add the sentiment of "You did it!", I first distressed the Black cardstock - exposing some of the white core. I'm pleased with the card and hope he enjoys it!

If you would like to see details on the technique or my supply list, please continue reading below. If not, please continue onto Rebecca's Blog where you will find some additional artwork highlighting this technique! Be sure to leave a comment and let me know what you thought of my variation and...happy hopping!

Supply List: C1351 You Did It, Fanfare Level 2 paper packet, Black Ink, Black Cardstock.

This is an image of the stamp set provided with a sample included on my website.

Thanks for stopping by! Continue onto Rebecca's Blog to continue the hop!

It's a great time to join my team!

2011-05-10T08:00:00.006-05:00

This month Close To My Heart is offering 50% off the Consultant kit price - now just $64.50 - A FABULOUS OFFER AND AND A GREAT OPPORTUNITY TO START YOUR OWN BUSINESS (or to support your addiction)! :0)

The campaign reads: Join the National Scrapbooking Month celebration by getting the exclusive You & Me scrapbooking kit FREE* and your New Consultant Kit at 50% off when you sign up in May! With this wonderful kit, you can make two fully embellished two-page layouts using the included instructions, papers, D-size stamp set, and accessories. The You & Me scrapbooking kit includes:

1 – My Acrylix® You & Me Stamp Set, 1 – 12” × 12” Colonial White Cardstock, 6 – 12” × 12” B&T Duos® Papers, 1 – 6” × 9” You & Me Irresistibles™ Chipboard Die-Cut Sheet, 1 Yard – Chocolate Stripe Ribbon, 1 Package – Opaques Mocha Adhesive Gems, 1 – Instruction Guide.

Your New Consultant Kit will be just $64.50 and includes Business Essentials plus 3 "choose me" product collections of your choice, with a retail value of up to $155 each! THAT'S PHENOMENAL! WHAT A SAVINGS! Click here and scroll towards the bottom of the page to see the collection options.

And...as a thank you for joining my team before May 14th (and helping me reach a goal), the first two people to sign up will also receive this gorgeous Shoulder Tote FREE! (Retail value $29.95!)

If you are considering becoming a part of the Close To My Heart family and a member of my Heartfelt Sentiments Team, keep reading... I LOVE my team and enjoy rewarding business and creative challenges, conducting team trainings across the country, and sharing in some fun and fellowship! It's never a dull moment when we get together!

On Saturday, April 30th, I was able to gather with team members near and afar for our quarterly team training. This is one of the things I love most about being apart of CTMH and having a team - getting together to share in our love of our products and this craft! We had a good time being silly and creating some fun products which have already been shared on here. :0)

While I have team members spread throughout the country, I extend the team training to all team members. It's something fun that my friend Teri and I have begun and will continue! So...even if you don't live close to me, I will still provide training, incentives, and fun projects for you to enjoy!

Amanda and Cyndi - busy at work.

Karen and Amanda making sure everything is JUST RIGHT!

Kimberly and Xellina working on the projects.

Xellina's husband grilled us some yummy and healthy food for lunch including shrimp, chicken and veggies. Our lunch was absolutely delicious - and healthy. Gotta love that combination!

We were able to enjoy our lunch outdoors - on a beautiful spring afternoon in Grapevine, TX.
From left to right: Cyndi, Kimberly, Xellina, Karen, and Amanda.

If you would like to join in the fun, while getting a discount on the best scrapbooking products around, contact me or SIGN UP HERE! I would love to have you! In 13 years I haven't regretted my decision and I'm sure you won't either! :0)

Fanfare meets simplicity...

2011-05-09T08:00:00.000-05:00

I LOVE the simplicity of this style of cards and this stinkin' cute notebox! (The note box was first seen on Lisa Stenz' blog.) I used the Fanfare Workshop on the Go and adorable stamp set that comes along with it to design them.

I first saw this "style" of cards on Lisa Stenz blog. I LOVED the way they were clean, simple, but attractive. The hand-drawn lines, with the use of a ruler (lol), seemed to finish them off nicely.

The design for these cards in particular came from Katy Donaldson's blog. This stamp set caught my attention as soon as I saw it in the Idea Book and it is even cuter in person!

This was the second project we created at my team training last weekend. They were a great hit and are something easily duplicated for gifts or fun treats! I love all the inspiration that comes from blogs! Thanks for stopping by.

Happy National Scrapbook Day 2011!

2011-05-07T10:30:00.000-05:00

Today I am enjoying good food, fellowship and fun with fellow Consultants - Debi Barber, Francene Ferrante, Karen Grafford and Xellina Wieland - and our guests at our NSD crop! It's a fun day complete with goodies, door prizes, and some awesome artwork!

I hope wherever you are you are enjoying a beautiful day full of scrapbooking or something enjoyable. And...if you weren't able to scrapbook today, May is National Scrapbooking Month - so you still have 24 days to play! Be blessed!

Lakers vs. Mavs TONIGHT!

2011-05-06T13:08:00.001-05:00

I am an avid Lakers fan - always have been - not just a bus-jumping fan when they are winning (or losing - lol).

My hubby spent a couple of hours last Saturday standing in line for tickets for the second-round of the playoffs. (Gotta love him!) With them doing the ticket sales lottery-style, he was 4th in line to get to 8 ticket booths! God was definitely on his/our side!

While the Lakers are down 0-2 (which is unheard of), I am still excited about seeing games 3 and 4 here in Dallas tonight and Sunday afternoon. Some friends are joining us for both games and I'm looking forward to it! (Hi, Xellina!)

Wishing you all a fabulous start to your weekend!

Chairs To You Blog Hop!

2011-04-30T21:00:00.001-05:00

Welcome to our Stamp of the Month Blog Hop! We will be featuring the May Stamp of the Month (SOTM), "Chairs to You", a set of 14 stamps.

If you have come here from Adeline's Blog you are on the right path! The blog hop is a great big circle, so you can start here and work your way all around. If you get lost along the way, you’ll find the complete list of participating consultants here.

This month we have approximately 55 Close To My Heart Consultants sharing their creations using this month's SOTM and other great CTMH products on their blogs. This is simple to do - just click on the link at the end of the post on each blog to move to the next one! Here we go!

This saying really hit me since my husband and I live far away from family. It's such a precious and true saying. I love that the images from this stamp set are outline images, allowing you to use the B&T as texture for the furniture coverings. I have seen some cute creations using this stamp set and am anxious to make some other items with it.

Now "Hop" on over to Wendy's Blog to see her work! Be sure to visit all the Consultants at their Blogs to get some great crafting ideas and other fun ideas! Remember, the SOTM is only available until the end of April, 2011! Click here to see how you can get this stamp set at a discount or even free! I have additional samples viewable on my website! Click here to view them!

Supply list: D1456 Chairs To You, Lucky paper packet, Bitty Sparkles.

HAPPY HOPPIN'!

Team Gathering with Fanfare

2011-04-30T16:00:00.003-05:00

Today I was joined by several of my team members - locally and in Salisbury, NC and Rusk, TX - for our quarterly team event. We had a great time sharing some laughs, eating great food, and learning various techniques and projects to incorporate into our businesses. Teri Baxter and I, my dear friend, have worked together to co-host these events across the country and I am thankful for her!

Attendees created these two layouts made out of Fanfare.

We used a portion of a Level 2 paper packet, Level 2 Stickease, Blue Buttons and White Daisy Ribbon to make these fun layouts - perfect for "summer time" photos!

Check back next week to see the other project we worked on - a cute notebox and matching cards! (The Stamp of the Month blog hop goes live tomorrow!) Have a blessed weekend!

Spring-Themed Gift Basket

2011-04-27T08:00:00.000-05:00

I fell in love with this basket after seeing it on Lisa Stenz' blog and decided to teach it as my club project for April.

I designed my version using the Mayberry paper packet and the April SOTM, "Be Blessed", to provide a little versatility since we met too close to Easter. Our focus product for this month were the Kraft Borders and I love how it provided a cute accent on the front of the basket.

A couple of my friends helped me brainstorm some things I could use to fill in the basket - there are tons of options. My club members got to fill theirs with jelly beans, Peeps lip gloss, and some yummy chocolate (Hershey Kisses and Reese's Peanut Butter Cups). There were a huge hit!

Thanks for your inspiration and for sharing, Lisa!

Happy belated Easter!

2011-04-26T19:30:00.001-05:00

I hope you enjoyed a blessed and enjoyable Easter. This year my husband and I spent Easter in Florida but it was not a pre-planned trip. Unfortunately, his eldest brother passed away on April 14th and we made the trip for his funeral. While it was not a good reason we all came together, it was nice seeing family and sharing in some fun laughs and memories in Sidney's honor.

I hadn't been back to Florida in a couple of years and it sure was beautiful! I loved seeing all the water and of course right now..the weather was awesome! Gotta love that breeze! Here are a few fun photos from our visit.

Hubby and I before leaving for funeral.

Me, hubby and step-son.

St. Augustine, FL

Having a yummy dinner with my step-son and niece at the Conch House - St. Augustine, FL

Hope for Japan Artwork

2011-04-17T22:47:00.000-05:00

I thought this stamp set was cute, just from the flyer and artwork I had seen, but it is even more beautiful in person!

This weekend I attended my friend's retreat and had the chance to make this 5x7 card, from the Wishes program, incorporating it. I used the Mayberry paper packet and Kraft borders.

I would have never thought that borders would be so much fun to play with but I love these! They do come in a kraft (light brown) color and can be sponged in colors to coordinate with your artwork. Here I colored them in Cocoa to match the paper packet. It might be difficult to tell but I did 3-D the heart in the middle of the image, adding some fun dimension to the card.

If you have not already bought this adorable stamp set for just $5 with 100% of the proceeds to benefit the American Red Cross Japan Relief Efforts, you still have until the end of the month to do so. It's a cute stamp set for a great cause! Contact me for additional details or visit by website by clicking here.

Have a blessed week!

Layered Flowers Blog Hop

2011-04-13T21:00:00.001-05:00

Welcome to our Technique Blog Hop! This month there are 12 of us highlighting the “Layered Flowers” Technique as shown on page 7 in the Spring/Summer 2011 Idea Book! This blog hop is a great big circle so you can start wherever you want and continue through to see all the fabulous artwork incorporating this technique. If you would like to start from the beginning, please visit this link. While there you will also find a listing of all participants and their blog addresses if you should get lost or want to reference a blog along the way. Let’s get started!

If you are coming from Heather's Blog, you are on the right track! This technique is highlighted with the Sophia paper packet in the Idea Book but you will find variations for its’ use through this hop.

This month I chose to use our beautiful Clear Cards. I absolutely love the different visual appeal you can create with these cards. They are so much fun to play with so if you haven't given them a try...maybe it's about time to do so!

I followed the technique directions as provided in the Idea Book but used the "Dreams Come True" stamp set and the darling Mayberry paper packet for my creation. (This paper pack will be come one of your favorites once you see it in person.) To create the leaves, I just cut them out of cardstock by hand and crumpled them. With the white core of our unique cardstock, it provided this nice "weathering" effect.

Here's a close-up if the flower and a better photo to view the layering. Of course, you always have to add some bling to put the perfect touch. I used our Pearl Opaques.

If you would like to see details on the technique or my supply list, please continue reading below. If not, please continue onto Becca's Blog where you will find some additional artwork highlighting this technique! Be sure to leave a comment and let me know what you thought of my variation and happy hopping!

Supply List: D1470 Dreams Come True, X7136B Mayberry Level 2 paper packet, Z1323 Clear Cards, Z1336 Pearl Opaque Adhesive Gems, Smoothie Ink, Cocoa Ink, Olive Ink, Colonial White Grosgrain Ribbon.

Here you can see a visual demonstration of this technique.

The steps to Layered Flowers are:

Stamp base image in one color and outline in another (if applicable to stamp selected). Repeat on another piece of cardstock.
Trim first image around all outer images. Trim second image, cutting out portions of the flower (to create the layered effect).
Curl ends of petals on second image and adhere on top of first image. Layer mixtures of stamped accent and embellishments to finish.

Thanks for stopping by! Continue onto Becca's Blog to continue the hop!

Fun on the Ranch

2011-04-03T22:42:00.000-05:00

This little guy was such a ham with all us woman at my team retreat which was held in February. He decided to go on the hay ride with us and did not shy away from the camera - at all! He took it all in and enjoyed the attention.

I created this wall-hanging out of the front (or back) cover of our 9x9 My Creations Showcase Album and thought the Fanfare paper packet was perfect to highlight this photo. I used some of our Bitty Sparkles to provide some accents around the Stars Dimensional Elements (sponged in Cranberry and Sky ink). The title was created by sponging our Oxford Color-Ready Alphabet in Pacifica Ink.

"Blessed" - April Stamp of the Month Blog Hop

2011-03-31T21:09:00.001-05:00

Welcome to our Stamp of the Month Blog Hop! We will be featuring the April Stamp of the Month (SOTM), "Blessed", a set of 12 stamps. This stamp set really helps celebrate the beauty of spring - and is perfect for special occasions.

I LOVE the base and shade stamping that is possible with this stamp set. It sure makes coloring a breeze! Of course, you can also use colored pencils, chalk or other color mediums to color in the images. Gotta love a stamp with lots of versatility!

I used the "rolling" technique to color in my flowers. I stamped the image first in baby pink (one of the colors in the Sweetheart paper packet) and then rolled it in Tulip. I have found, when doing base and shade stamping that I like to stamp the base first and then the outline is more-easily placed. (Doing so in reverse can pose a challenge with some stamps so give my order a try.)

I did use the Pear Marker to color in the leaves, using the Waterbrush pen, since there is no solid base for it. On the butterfly I added a finishing touch - some bling! Are you surprised?! :0) You will find a complete supply list provided below.

Now "Hop" on over to Lisa's Blog to see her work! Be sure to visit all the Consultants at their Blogs to get some great crafting ideas and other fun ideas! Remember, the SOTM is only available until the end of April, 2011! Click here to see how you can get this stamp set at a discount or even free! I have additional samples viewable on my website! Click here to view them!

Supply list: D1455 Blessed, X7134B Sweetheart paper packet (Black and Tulip), Z2166 Tulip Ink Pad, Z2105 Black Ink Pad, Z2397 Pear Marker.

HAPPY HOPPIN'!

Let's provide some Hope for Japan!

2011-03-28T06:00:00.002-05:00

OUR HEARTS GO OUT TO THE VICTIMS of the earthquake and tsunami in Japan, and like so many of you, Close To My Heart and our Owner and CEO, Jeanette Lynton, are eager to help. And helping has never been easier!

During April, purchase the exclusive “Hope for Japan” A-size stamp set for the special price of only $5 (retail value $7.95) and Close To My Heart will donate 100% of the profits to the American Red Cross efforts in Japan. This beautifully designed stamp set reminds us of how our hearts are hopeful for those who are in need.

I'd be happy to either add your stamp set to my next order or you can purchase it directly from my website. Contact me today to get involved in this heart-worthy cause. 100% of the profits will be donated by Close To My Heart to the American Red Cross Japan relief efforts.

I have issued a challenge to my team and we are in competition with another team to see who can sell the most stamp sets to support this worthy cause. I would love for you to help us while helping the victims in Japan!

Hugs,

Melissa Robinson,

Contrast Embossing Blog Hop

2011-03-15T06:00:00.005-05:00

Welcome to this group’s first attempt at a Technique Blog Hop! This month there are 11 of us highlighting the “Contrast Embossing” Technique as shown on page 31 in the Spring/Summer 2011 Idea Book! This blog hop is a great big circle so you can start wherever you want and continue through to see all the fabulous artwork incorporating this technique. If you would like to start from the beginning, please visit this link. While there you will find a listing of all participants and their blog addresses if you should get lost or want to reference a blog along the way. Let’s get started!

If you are coming from Heather's Blog, you are on the right track! This technique is highlighted with the Lucky paper packet in the Idea Book but you will find variations for its’ use through this hop.

This is the card I designed using the Wishes Card program. It is a 4x4 card. I used the "brush" from "The Present" stamp set as my background and the butterfly from the "Hot Diggity" set as my embossed images. I used the Pansy Purple Embossing Powder as my contrasting ink and love the way it "popped" on the Olive cardstock. I love the simplicity of this design and just used some Cocoa ribbon to finish it off.

If you would like to see details on the technique or my supply list, please continue reading below. If not, please continue onto Shirley's Blog where you will find some additional artwork highlighting this technique! Be sure to leave a comment and let me know what you thought of my variation and happy hopping!

Supply List: D1436 The Present, C1407 Hot Diggity, Z664 Pansy Purple Embossing Powder, 1764 Craft Tray, Z555 Craft Heater, Cocoa Cardstock, Olive Cardstock, Pansy Purple Cardstock, Heat Tool, Cocoa Ink, Versamark Pad.

The steps to Contrast Embossing are:

Stamp background image on project.
Stamp additional images in Versamark ink. Sprinkle with contrasting color of embossing powder.
Tap off excess powder. Set with craft heater.

Here you can see a visual demonstration of this technique.

Thanks for stopping by! Continue onto Shirley's Blog to continue the hop!

Retreat Welcome Sign (and more highlights)

2011-03-14T06:05:00.002-05:00

It was fun, arriving at the retreat location, with this welcome sign especially for us.

This photo is of the entire group - 39 of us!

This is a photo of team Consultants in attendance.

These are first downline team members who shared in this fun weekend with me!

If I haven't told you before...I love my team!

Sophia Interactive Layouts

2011-03-13T20:03:00.001-05:00

Each year at my team retreat, I design and share patterns for two projects. This year our theme was "Friendships in Full Bloom" and the Sophia paper packet (my absolute favorite) helped me set the tone for commemorating our fun weekend.

I designed these layouts incorporating the 12" Flip Flaps. Two of the layouts came straight from the back of the Level 2 Stickease and the other 2 were of my original design (using our exclusive how-to books, of course). I loved incorporating the new Eclectic Alphabet for the titles.

Here are two of the layouts with photos and journaling from the retreat weekend on them. I apologize for these photos not being very clear but I took them quickly while they were in page protectors but I think you get the general idea.

I was very pleased with them and hope you like them too!

I won, I won!

2011-03-11T16:00:00.002-06:00

When I attended the Close To My Heart Team Builder's Conference in Salt Lake City in mid-January, we were each given a beautiful, hand-designed brooch. Most of them were uniquely designed and there were 59 of them! This is what mine looked like.

A few weeks ago my upline, Jody Peck, issued a contest for designing one of our own. There were several submissions and I'm proud to announce I won 1st place in the category of "Most Creative"! It was fun seeing all of the creative ideas using various CTMH products!

I used lots of fun CTMH doodads, including Dimensional elements, Pink and Pear Buttons, Pear Ribbon, and the beautiful Sophia paper!

Altered Matchbook Notepad

2011-03-09T06:00:00.001-06:00

Those you who know me well know I LOVE to alter inexpensive gifts! I found these notepads, in pairs, at Target. These were one of my retreat goodies that each attendee received. I have since added a matching pen.

Sophia is one of my absolute favorite paper packs and I don't think I'll tire of it anytime soon.

Team Retreat = FUN!

2011-03-08T11:38:00.000-06:00

Three weeks ago I hosted my annual Heartfelt Sentiments team retreat! I was blessed to have 39 fellow scrapbookers in attendance who shared the weekend with me. Many attendees were members of my team while some of their friends, family members and customers also decided to join in the fun! We gathered at the Lone Oak Ranch & Retreat in Gainesville, TX. This beautiful property resembles a Texas-style town, complete with Western memorabilia.

During the weekend, we enjoyed delicious food, fun gifts, and lots of laughter! It was a great time as it always is but it never lasts long enough. However, I am grateful for the time I was able to spend with my dear friends and look forward to next year's retreat.

Here are just a few photos from the weekend. Stay tuned for more in upcoming posts!

We never went hungry and enjoyed yummy food!

Who would have thought 39 people could crop in one room? But...we did!

My Mom and I posing for a photo during the beautiful weather we were able to enjoy.

Ahhh...my friends and downline, Melissa, Mary and Jennifer.

Here's my version of a glamour shot. LOL The ranch is on some beautiful property.

Sensational Season BLOG HOP!

2011-02-28T20:00:00.002-06:00

Welcome to our Stamp of the Month Blog Hop! We will be featuring the March Stamp of the Month (SOTM), "Sensational Season", a set of 10 stamps. I love the Spring and this stamp set is perfect for preserving your spring-time memories or for your Easter greeting cards!

If you have come here from Angel's Blog you are on the right path! The blog hop is a great big circle, so you can start here and work your way all around. If you get lost along the way, you’ll find the complete list of participating consultants here.

This month we have approximately 57 Close To My Heart Consultants sharing their creations using this month's SOTM and other great CTMH products on their blogs. This is simple to do - just click on the link at the end of the post on each blog to move to the next one! Here we go!

I absolutely fell in love with the bunnies in this stamp set! I LOVE to color but have since gotten away from doing so on my scrapbooking projects because I learned to love the base and shade images we have. It was good to get back as I used the Waterbrush Pen and coordinating ink colors - Blush, Hollyhock, and Grey Wool - to color in the image. I love the soft effect the waterbrush pen offered. To create a "frame" around the focal point, I scored a rectangle on the backside and used a Sanding Block to distress it - perfect to do because our paper has a white core. This was a fun stamp set to play with!

Now "Hop" on over to Caren's Blog to see her work! Be sure to visit all the Consultants at their Blogs to get some great crafting ideas and other fun ideas! Remember, the SOTM is only available until the end of March, 2011! Click here to see how you can get this stamp set at a discount or even free! I have additional samples viewable on my website! Click here to view them!

HAPPY HOPPIN'!

The Retreat is over...

2011-02-27T17:40:00.000-06:00

But we had a FABULOUS TIME! That's where I have been since my last post - preparing for my team retreat where I had 39 team members and guests in attendance! I will post pics of the weekend after my Stamp of the Month Blog Hop goes out on the first (since I don't want to interfere with it) but I did want to take a moment to share a fun surprise I received while at the retreat.

Friday mid-morning while I was waiting for everyone to begin arriving, one of the guys from the office brought in a floral box. I knew my hubby had no idea where the retreat was located (lol) - he just knew I was at one - and had no idea who else could have sent them. When I opened the box, I found gorgeous flowers and a sweet card from my upline, Jody Peck!!!!! She sent it to me and my team as a wish for us having a fun weekend!

Here am I with several of my team members, showing appreciation for the beautiful flowers.

And this was them blooming after arriving home. Loved the colors!

Thanks for being so thoughtful, Jody! My team and I appreciated it and they were gorgeous!

Taking Advantage of Perfect 10!

2011-02-08T06:00:00.002-06:00

This month, Studio J Members can get 1 FREE layout with the purchase of 9 and I plan on taking advantage of that later in the month.

One of my favorite new paper packs is "Fanfare". While I don't physically have it in my possession yet, I was excited to create some layouts in Studio J to commemorate our fun during the World Series this past year. It seemed exceptionally fitting because of the coordinating colors.

I am pleased with how the layouts turned out and will continue to share layouts as I finish them.

If you are unfamiliar with Studio J, it's our NEW online design software and the tagline speaks volumes. It is: Real Life. Real Scrapbooks. Real Time. You can find more about this software - which is completely FREE to use - by clicking here. There is a standard-fee, per layout, regardless of how many embellishments and "extras" you put on your layouts. It's a fabulous and easy-to-use program.

This month we have this campaign as a bonus to Members.

If you have questions about Studio J or live locally and would like a demo, please contact me. You will love this online software once you give it a try! And...don't think this means I'm getting away from the traditional scrapbooking but it will allow me to catch-up and scrapbook events quicker than I would complete by hand. THAT makes me a happy scrapper!

Focus Word for the Year

2011-02-07T05:00:00.004-06:00

Upon purchasing the Log Your Memory download program, I am provided weekly challenges which I have shared with my team a couple of times. One of them is based on a practice made popular by Ali Edwards. One week my team challenge was to choose a word that would serve as their focus for the year and then scrap it!

With their participation, they were told their creations would be highlighted on my blog with links provided to their websites and/or blogs. So...here are the contributors. CUTE ARTWORK if I must say so myself!

This CUTE frame was made by my Mom, Maria Elena. I LOVE the phrases that describe each word in FOCUS and LOVE the incorporation of the "glasses". Click here for a link to her website.

Pamela's focus word is "Expand" for 2011. She used our adorable Wings paper pack to highlight her goals. LOVE the skirt on the dress form made out of a Paper Bloom (flower)! Click on the respective words for a link to her Blog and her Website.

It's rather fitting that Molly chose "Delight" because she's delightful to be around. I LOVE that she incorporated scripture onto this Dimensional Element Heart. Click here for a link to her website.

I'm so thrilled these ladies participated in the challenge! They will each be sent a goodie for their participation. I had initially announced a contest but I think these are all winning artwork submissions! Thanks for stopping by!

Super Bowl Sunday 2011

2011-02-06T19:00:00.001-06:00

My hubby and I got up this morning and headed to Fort Worth to see the live taping of ESPN and to be amidst the Super Bowl anticipation. It was nothing less than fun as we were seen on TV by family and friends and we saw several great movie stars including Jennifer Aniston, Adam Sandler and Snoop Dogg!

Live set from the side. Chris Carter looking my direction.


This is the set you would have seen on TV. Their backs were towards the crowd.

Chris Carter, Keyshawn Johnson, and Boomer (Chris Berman) - ESPN Analysts.

Adam Sandler gave my hubby a 'thumbs up' when he told Adam that he enjoyed him on the Dan Patrick show the other day.


Here was Jennifer getting mic'd up.


And here's Snoop Doggggggg! He was being interviewed by Mort and the Pope was also a guest. LOL Okay so maybe not!

We saw other sports stars including Jerome Bettis (Steelers), Steve Young (49ers), Tedy Bruschi (Patriots), Coach Mike Ditka (Bears), Tom Jackson (Broncos), ESPN Analyst Adam Shefter, and more!

It was rather "unreal" being in the midst of this live taping but definitely something worth experiencing! (So far the Packers have started out strong but the Steelers are stepping things up before halftime... We'll see how this game ends.) Enjoy the game!

P.S. The Packers defeated the Steelers, 31-25.

Happy Birthday Card (with Sophia)

2011-02-06T06:00:00.001-06:00

My dear friend, Xellina, invited me over to her birthday party last night and we had a great time! We gave her a "group" gift and I was in charge of making the card. This is what I came up with!

I absolutely love the beautiful Pink Collection of Designer Ribbon which has ribbon that makes these beautiful rosettes. Isn't it awesome? There is a pink brad in the center of the flower but it's a little difficult to view from the photo. This Sophia paper packet has totally caught my attention, can't you tell?

Cards made with Wings

2011-02-05T15:08:00.000-06:00

My downline, Amanda, shared some C-U-T-E cards she taught at a workshop in January. So.. I followed her lead, changed a couple of things on them (to suit my group) and was thrilled for her generosity!

Her technique focus was embossing and I love how she incorporated it so well with this stamp set. Both the shoe and the butterfly are embossed. The shoe has clear embossing powder on it, stamped directly over the Vineyard Berry ink, and the butterfly has black powder. Then, a Sponge Dauber was used to apply the various colors of coordinating ink - Twilight, Vineyard Berry, and Sweet Leaf - to color up the butterfly's wings.

Thanks so much for sharing your cards, Amanda! I appreciate it your creative inspiration and so did my club members!

NEW Product Blog Hop

2011-02-03T06:00:00.006-06:00

Click here to view the Idea Book online.

The NEW Spring/Summer 2011 Idea Book went "live" on the 1st and I am grateful for the opportunity to be apart of this Blog Hop - highlighting some of our newest products! If you have come here from Tonya's Blog, you are on the right path! The blog hop is a great big circle, so you can start here and work your way all around. If you get lost along the way, you’ll find the complete list of participating consultants here.

We have 11 Close To My Heart Consultants sharing their creations using products from the New Spring/Summer 2011 Idea Book and other great CTMH products on their blogs. This is simple to do - just click on the link at the end of the post on each blog to move to the next one! Here we go!

I LOVE the new Sweetheart Paper Packet and coordinating Level 2 Assortment. I used the Level 2 paper packet, Level 2 Stickease, Level 2 Assortment and the NEW Irresistibles Eclectic Alphabet to create these two layouts. Aren't they just gorgeous?! They are ready for this year's Valentine's Day photos and I can't wait to see them finished! Both layouts were created using our how-to book, "Magic".

Using some leftovers from my layouts, I created this Circle Card - using a pattern out of "Wishes". Here you can see a close-up of the Sweetheart Level 2 Assortment which is a 6" x 12" sheet of 32 epoxy stickers in various shapes and sizes! Aren't they beautiful?!

Supplies used: X7134B Sweetheart Level 2 Paper Packet, X7134C Sweetheart Level 2 My Stickease Assortment, Z1386 Sweetheart Level 2 Assortment, Z1395 Irresistibles Eclectic Alphabet. Click on the links provided above to see a close-up of these products and their prices.

Now "Hop" on over to Carol's Blog to see her work! Be sure to visit all the Consultants at their Blogs to get some great crafting ideas and other fun ideas! Contact your Consultant or visit my website to see how you can get these products!

HAPPY HOPPIN'!

Hubby's Birthday (& Super Bowl festivities)

2011-02-02T14:24:00.004-06:00

My husband and I celebrated his 40th birthday this past weekend, with his official birthday on January 31st. With the Super Bowl in the area in just a few days, and as huge football fans, we enjoyed taking in the sights and scenes of the upcoming event.

Sunday we headed out to Sundance Square in downtown Fort Worth to see where ESPN would broadcast from for Super Bowl Week. Here are some of photos from that day.

On Monday my husband had the day off and went to the live filming of several of ESPN's broadcasts. My parents saw him several times on ESPN that day!

His favorite commentator to listen to on ESPN Radio is Colin Cowherd.

He then managed a picture with the ESPN Desportes Radio Analyst. (At least that's who he said it was! lol)

And finally he caught Simeon Rice, who was a Defensive End for the Indianapolis Colts the last time he played, being interviewed on the local ESPN Dallas radio station.

He's been in heaven having LIVE access to all this ESPN "stuff". He just wishes the weather would cooperate a little better.

We live close to Cowboys Stadium, where the Super Bowl will be held, and did a drive-by to take a few photos.

This is what the front of the stadium looked like a week ago. There has been an additional glass "wall" placed around the perimeter of the building where the logo is shown.

This is what it looks like now - finished.

Here's a view of the Lombardi trophy - on the east and west ends of the stadium.

I hope it's a competitive game and am cheering on the Packers!

February Stamp of the Month BLOG HOP

2011-01-31T19:00:00.009-06:00

Welcome to our Stamp of the Month Blog Hop! We will be featuring February's Stamp of the Month (SOTM), "Friendship", a set of 8 stamps.

If you have come here from Wendy's Blog you are on the right path! The blog hop is a great big circle, so you can start here and work your way all around. If you get lost along the way, you’ll find the complete list of participating consultants here.

This month we have approximately 66 Close To My Heart Consultants sharing their creations using this month's SOTM and other great CTMH products on their blogs. This is simple to do - just click on the link at the end of the post on each blog to move to the next one! Here we go!

I love the "damask" look of this stamp set - great for creating backgrounds as I did on this card.

Using a Black ink pad, I random-stamped the image on White Daisy Cardstock, creating a triangle pattern as I did. Trimmed slightly and layered on Crystal Blue cardstock, I then added the focal point to the center of the card. In my attempt not to detract from the background paper and beautiful friendship saying, I simply added a few Opaque Pearls and Black-striped ribbon as a finishing touch.

Close To My Heart Products used: D1453 Friendship SOTM, Z1336 Opaque Pearl Adhesive Gems, Black Ink, Z1393 Black, Mini Medley Accents Collection, Crystal Blue Cardstock, Heavenly Blue Cardstock.

Here is an alternative to the card, using the colors and paper of the NEW "Miracle" paper packet.

Now "Hop" on over to Caren's Blog to see her work! Be sure to visit all the Consultants at their Blogs to get some great crafting ideas and other fun ideas! Remember, the SOTM is only available until January 28, 2011! Click here to see how you can get this stamp set at a discount or even free! I have additional samples viewable on my website! Click here to view them!

HAPPY HOPPIN'!

Disney-bound! (You can be too!)

2011-01-30T10:59:00.000-06:00

This year's National Convention will be held in Anaheim, California at the Disneyland Hotel! I look forward to this event every year as I get to have fun and connect with my team members and other fellow Consultants.

We always have a great time as the Idea Book is unveiled to us "live" - you would be amazed at the excitement such an unveiling generates! We have the opportunity to learn about the newest products and fabulous techniques in which to incorporate them as well as business trainings that help us make the most of our businesses.

Since returning from Convention last summer (held in Washington, D.C.), my friend Teri, shared an incentive idea she was doing with her team and I jumped onboard. My team members had an opportunity to join the Mickey Mouse Club, simply by registering for Convention. We have the luxury of doing so by joining the "Dollars to Disney" program where we can make gradual payments towards our registration fee! I did this last year and felt like I was able to attend for FREE since I never felt it in my pocket book. I'm excited to have participated in this program this year - even tucking away a little money towards new products (which we can purchase at a discount at Convention)! For those who joined the club...I also sent them the above pin, to wear at their Close To My Heart events, and this CUTE card!

I used the retired "Giggles & Grins" paper packet and the retired "Fancy Fuzz Borders" - to create the Mickey silhouette.

There's nothing like the experience of being at a Close To My Heart Convention. If you would like to know more about becoming a Consultant and a member of my Heartfelt Sentiments team, please email me and I would be happy to provide you more information. (There is a wonderful recruiting campaign that will take place during the month of February. Watch my blog, during the early days of the month, for additional details.

Getting Organized in 2011

2011-01-28T19:59:00.000-06:00

For those who know me, I'm a pretty organized person. I can find most things I need when I need them - but I can always use some additional and CUTE organizational methods to help me in this area!

After attending Team Builders and hearing a presentation by Dana S., I came home with motivation to decorate and organize this Business Binder. It has everything I need, at my fingertips, for my Close To My Heart Business including downline and customer information, creative ideas, and my business calendar. Of course, I had to decorate the CUTE cover using the Sophia paper pack and coordinating cardstock! Here's to staying organized this year!

Giant Nugget Card Boxes

2011-01-26T20:04:00.001-06:00

This is one of the projects we created at my Team event this past Saturday. The pattern was shared by my upline, Jody, and I created them as Christmas gifts for my club members. (I forgot to take pictures of those but made them using Christmas paper.)

This stinkin' cute, paper-crafted boxes and cards, are absolutely adorable and even moreso in person! They are a little sneak peek at the beautiful new paper pack called...SOPHIA! I have fallen in love!

Three Hershey's Nuggets have been wrapped with background and texture paper (B&T) to coordinate. Aren't they cute?!

Here is a better photo of the cards. I chose to keep them simple for mass production. Can you identify, besides a new stamp set highlighted here, another new product that will be included in the Spring/Summer 2011 Idea Book to be released on the 1st of February?! I have fallen in love with it too!

I will be hosting a workshop in February for these cute boxes. If you don't live locally to me and can't physically attend - because I'd love to have you at my workshop - then email me and I'm happy to share directions! They make great gifts for co-workers, secret sisters, small appreciation gifts, etc.!

Successful Nation-wide Team Gathering

2011-01-23T19:34:00.001-06:00

My accountability partner and dear friend, Teri, and I worked together to conduct team meetings in various locations throughout the United States yesterday and we pulled it off with great success! Between the two of us we had 51 attendees! Isn't that awesome?! With both of us having lived away from close acquaintances involved in CTMH, it has allowed us to greater understand the feelings of those who don't live in close proximity to us, their uplines. We taught two different workshops and had fun networking and connecting nation-wide over the phone through a conference call.

Each location coordinated their own lunch menus. I served a salad and potato bar (thanks to the idea from my friend, Cindy) and the attendees brought munchies. Two of the items which were especially enjoyed was this chocolate cake with cream cheese frosting and strawberries and yummy cupcakes.

From left to right: Amanda, Karen, Cherri and Erlynne

Lynn, Cyndi and Amanda working on their projects

Here was our croppin' area provided by my dear friend and downline, Xellina.

Here's the entire group!

Front row: Lynn , Cherri, Amanda, Xellina and Me (Melissa)

Back row: Erlynne, Karen and Cyndi

I enjoyed spending time with these sweet ladies and it was wonderful to connect with so many of my team members in one day!

Here is a photo of the group who united in Chandler, TX!

Front row: Melanie, Pam, Rose Mary

Second Row: Rebecca & Judy Faye

Third Row: Joy & Tina

Fourth Row: Janet & Wanda

WHAT FUN!!!!! I look forward to our next nation-wide event in April!

Goodies are always good!

2011-01-21T23:51:00.000-06:00

Everyone loves goodies and last weekend at the Team Builder's Conference, we weren't short of them - that's for sure!

Upon registering we were given this C-U-T-E basket of goodies, especially appreciated by the cheerleader in me, full of "cheerleader"-type items, fitting for the weekend's theme.

There was a megaphone, pom pons, #1 fingers, mini banners, tattoos and lots of other fun goodies!

Then...(drum roll is needed here, please) on Friday we were given a rolling bag with over $1500 worth of scrapbooking products in it! It weighed in at over (drum roll again, please) 51 lbs.! The bag would barely roll! In it were paper packs, embellishments and other fun stuff...OH MY!

It was packed to the brim with various products and even the pockets on the front were filled with goodies! I'll be playing with this fun stuff and using it as door prizes at my upcoming events and for challenges for my team! It almost felt like Christmas all over again!

On Saturday, placed at our tables, were these BEAUTIFUL leather notebooks with our Legacy Writer pens on top.

The notebook is absolutely gorgeous with our CTMH logo on the front. It's one of those things that's almost too pretty to use! GEEZ! You think we would want ugly stuff so we wouldn't mind using it?! NO WAY! I'll take the plunge at some point when I decide what I want to write in it.

For those of you who know me well, any gift is a great gift! I love the thought behind gift-giving but these gifts were totally awesome and greatly appreciated. I love our company who loves surprises and likes to provide treats and watch us get extremely excited over them!

Beautiful scenery in Salt Lake City

2011-01-15T09:50:00.000-06:00

After our meeting Thursday night, we found snow falling outside as we sought a place to socialize and hang out for a bit. It was BEAUTIFUL! On our way out to find some fun, fellow Directors Naomi and Louise, posed with me for this fun picture (in front of a tree with red lights).

We were told that the hotel across the street was worth seeing and that we needed to check it out, so we did. We found the courtyard covered in snow and saw it as an opportunity for some photos.

Me, Briana, Louise, Naomi, Noreen, & Cindy

Making some snowballs (and eating them).

Briana and I hanging out.

It really hasn't been as cold here as it could be (or maybe not much phases me anymore after living in Kansas last year). I've enjoyed experiencing the winter in Salt Lake - although we have to see what weather we get today and tomorrow.

Having fun...

Safe & sound in Salt Lake City

2011-01-13T11:26:00.001-06:00

I arrived last night, with my friend Cindy, in Salt Lake City. We are having a Team Builder's Conference here, held with Close To My Heart Directors. Our room is absolutely gorgeous and VERY spacious! We have a beautiful view of the downtown area which is snow-covered.

Vanity area outside of bathroom. (Full-size closet to the right.)

Sink area in bathroom.

Glassed in tub. (I refrained from posting a photo of the toilet. LOL)

Here are photos from our room this morning.

Beautiful view of the snow-capped mountains.

Our conference starts this evening so we have enjoyed being lazy this morning. Stay tuned for more updates from our weekend!

Recipe Box

2011-01-05T01:00:00.001-06:00

One gift exchange I participated in this holiday season required a kitchen-item. I wasn't sure what to purchase and finally decided on decorating one of our Recipe Boxes - perfect for the kitchen!

I used the Cherry-O Level 2 Paper Packet, coordinating Stickease and the Level 2 Assortment (the bling cherries and leaves).

I also incorporate the chef's hat from a retired stamp set.

The box was a hit and now I need to make one for myself!