Happy Scrapping!

I've MOVED!

2011-07-03T17:22:00.000-05:00

I HAVE MOVED!

Please join me at

www.lifewithacrazycropper.blogspot.com

See you there!

Happy New Year 2010!

2010-01-01T09:38:00.003-06:00

Happy New Year to Everyone! I spent yesterday afternoon and plan to spend today starting this year off doing exactly what I love doing... playing in my scrapbook room! Here are a few cards I did for a swap I'm in next weekend at our CTMH Consultant's Retreat in Branson. I can't wait! I get to spend 3 days with friends who have the same passion for scrapbooking as I do. PLUS, we get to get in and get busy making project after project with all new product! WOOHOO... CAN'T WAIT!

This first card is for the Valentine's Day Swap. I know the colors are non-traditional for Valentine's but I love the stamp set! And it's our newest incentive set called "Bee Mine". I used our newest paper pack... Veranda. Love the colors used... Juniper, Cocoa and Creme Brulee. It's a little 4 x 4 card and I love how it turned out.

This one is for the Birthday Card Swap. I used papers from Veranda for this one, as well along with the Stamps of the Months for January and February!

This card is for the "Anything Goes" Swap. I used Topstitch paper pack for this one. It's a new one, too! Check out the Cocoa cardstock I stamped with our White Daisy and Connections stamp set. I love this look! The other colors used are Vineyard Berry and Heavenly Blue. So sweet!

Christmas 2009

2009-12-31T11:24:00.003-06:00

I am by no means caught up with my scrapbooking BUT, Christmas pictures are just so much fun to do and the memories are so fresh, it's a great place to start back up if you've been in a slump and haven't done much in a while! So, here goes...

Christmas Eve... I love our Close to My Heart papers so much and this is a great example of why. This paper is from a paper pack called Hollydays. It has been retired for quite a while, but it is timeless. At Christmas time, I always reach for this stash! Not that I don't love our new stuff, I just love the bright and bold colors of Christmas that are reflected in this paper. I also used Snow Flurries stamp set for the snowflakes and the swirl (which I LOVE!). In addition, I used letters from Felicity for "Christmas Eve". The gold ornament was done with our Glitter Rubons... SO much fun! And I matted everything on Dutch Blue and/or Clover Meadow cardstock. Now that I look at them, I may have to go back and bling up the middle of some of those snowflakes! That would be SO cool!

Our Little Diva

2009-12-31T11:18:00.004-06:00

This layout used a special paper pack that is on sale from now until the end of January. I love it! It's called Felicity. The colors I used here is Sorbet and Desert Sand. And the coolest part is that a stamp set comes with the kit! That's where the swirls and bird came from PLUS, there is a full alphabet included (used for "OUR"). I also used Rustic Alphabet for "Little Diva" and accented with sorbet and cocoa brads. This is perfect for a sweet little girl like my granddaughter, Trella!

Devin Turns One!

2009-12-31T10:45:00.004-06:00

Well, I've been doing a bit of scrapbooking and plan to get some more done this weekend, but I wanted to get posted some of the things I've finished. It's been a while and it feels good to get back into it!

I used Cranberry and Outdoor Denim cardstock and that's pretty much it! They both matched my pictures so well and I really wanted the pictures to speak for themselves. I did ink up some Simple Alphabet Dimensional Elements for "DEVIN" and I used a few brads here and there. Simple, yet Perfect! Oh, and "Sweet Baby Boy and the double lines in the lower left corner of the page on the left are handstitched in dark blue.

Merry Christmas!

2009-12-25T21:19:00.002-06:00

Merry Christmas everyone! I hope all you wanted you got! I hope to be posting some new scrapbook pages real soon. They are done, they just need to be photographed and uploaded. My goal before the end of the year!

I'm Always Amazed!

2009-11-14T18:29:00.002-06:00

At how people can find you that you don't even know. Someone... "anonymous" has left spamming comments on this blog. It's kind of freaky since I didn't realize that many people even KNEW about this blog! OH, well, just thought I'd comment on that.

WOW! Time Flies!

2009-10-29T18:29:00.002-05:00

I made it through the retreat and I'm already on to planning a Spring one! Check out my Fall Retreat Blog at www.2009bransonretreat.blogspot.com and the brand new one for the Spring Retreat at www.2010springretreat.blogspot.com. We had a blast and will have just as much, if not even more, fun at the Spring Retreat!

I'm in Retreat Mode!

2009-10-05T20:10:00.002-05:00

I cannot believe we are only a week and a couple of days away from my 2009 Fall Scrapbook Retreat in Branson, Mo! I hope you are among the wonderful group of ladies who are joining me for a fun-filled, hopefully productive 4 days of scrapbooking at a wonderful location in Branson. I love organizing these things and I can't wait for it to begin. Come on over to my other blog... www.2009BransonRetreat.blogspot.com and see what's going on! You just may have to join us for the Spring Retreat I am planning in April!

Provocraft Celebrates 100 Cricut Cartridges!!!

2009-09-13T07:29:00.008-05:00

This is right from their message boards...

Help us celebrate our 100th Cricut cartridge—Winter Woodland! That’s right, we reached 100 cartridges. As a thank you for our great Cricut community members we want you to celebrate with us. So, we’re giving away 100 cartridges over the next five weeks (20 per week).

Here’s how it will work.

Each week we will be posting a thread. When you respond to the thread you will be entered to win. (here is the link to the first thread - http://www.cricut.com/messageboard/tm.aspx?m=5248058&mpage=1) You can enter once by replying and you can enter a second time by posting on your blog about the celebration and linking back to the cartridge product page. Here is the link to include in your blog. Once you’ve posted on your blog with the link back you can post again to this thread.

this may be helpful :)
http://www.cricut.com/shopping/ProductDetails.aspx?id=361&s=1&sc=2

Thanks for your continued support. Good luck.

How awesome is THAT! And I might add, this is one fantastic cartridge! I just got mine Friday and can't wait to play with it! Be sure and enter... you could WIN!!!

Back to Reality!

2009-09-13T07:17:00.004-05:00

I've been on vacation (off work) since last Thursday! That's a week and a half away from the office! I don't think I've ever been gone this long! I'm not sure if it's good or bad, either. I'm kind of sad today because I have to go back tomorrow! That's pathetic, isn't it!!!

I did have a great time while I was off. Shelly and Devin and I went on a road trip. We started off going to Wichita where we got to spend a couple of wonderful days with my cousins at Critter Corner. That Wichita bunch has always, always, always made me laugh and just enjoy life. We fell in love with the farm life and the animals and the 4 wheeler!

We left there and went to Tulsa to visit more family... Uncle Don, Marilee, Pat and Brenda. So good to see everyone! And Shelly got to get up early one morning and hunt golf balls with Uncle Don. She loved that!

Teresa, Devin and Jess

Bitsy, me and Bubber on the 4 wheeler heading out to hunt for corn or the horses!

Devin on a horsey with Bitsy standing guard close by!

I got home on Wednesday and have been busy getting my house ready for my Close to My Heart Open House next Saturday. Come by and see me! It's from 1pm to 3pm on Saturday, September 19th! Be one of the first 10 and get a special gift from me!

Cricut Vinyl

2009-08-23T07:42:00.003-05:00

Friday was such a blast. Some friends, Christy, Mary Jo and Becky and I got up way early for a day road trip to the CK Convention in Tulsa. We stopped at several Scrapbook Stores in and around the area. We really had a good time, but we were exhausted when we got home... at 10:30 Friday night. Then, last night, as my sister and I were doing a little Cricut Vinyl project on my wall, I got a call from the last store we stopped at and I was told I won one of their drawings!!! How exciting! Ashley, at "A Memory to Scrap" told me I won a basket of a new line of paper from Reminiscent! It's 12 pages of double sides paper and 4 sheets of embellishments to match! I'm so excited! I will be in Tulsa early September and will go pick it up then. It's always fun to win, isn't it!

So, yesterday afternoon, my sister and I got busy on some wall art for my back door. When I was in Tulsa, I saw this saying and love it. So, I designed it on Design Studio and cut it out of the Brown Cricut Vinyl. Judy crawled up on the bar stools and before long, a finished project! I absolutely love it! Leave me a comment and let me know what you think!

Retreat Goers!

2009-08-19T06:43:00.002-05:00

If you haven't been there yet, hop over to my other Blog... http://2009bransonretreat.blogspot.com/ for all of the latest on my Scrapbook Retreat in Branson in October! We are going to have SO much fun! If you haven't signed up for it.... come on!!! We have 9 spots left and it's gonna be a great scrapbook getaway... You know you want to do it!

National Stamping Day!

2009-08-19T06:40:00.002-05:00

September is National Stamping Month and, of course, Close to My Heart is going all out to celebrate! This Delight in the Everyday Card Kit is fabulous! Please check it out by going to my website www.jmpurves.myctmh.com! You simply HAVE to have this card kit!

Fall Scrapbook Retreat in Branson

2009-08-02T10:36:00.003-05:00

It's a done deal! The place is booked and registration forms have been sent out! If you'd like to join us for a fun filled 4 day, 3 night scrapbooking retreat in fabulous Branson, Mo, shoot me an email for details! It is going to be SO much fun. And you won't want to miss it. Games, prizes, scrapbooking, food and friendship... who could ask for more! I'll be back soon to add more detail... if you want to email me, my email addy is jmpurves@mchsi.com. I hope to see you all there!

Cricut-ing the Weekend Away!

2009-07-19T20:14:00.003-05:00

Well, it's been a full weekend! It started Friday night at 5:00. It was my Open Crop til Midnight. What a great time we had! My house was full, the creativity was flowing and the Cricut's were a-hummin'!!! I can't wait til next month. I love this group and we just have SO much fun.

Then, yesterday, I had 2 classes, back to back. A big thanks to Becky Jones, Creative Memories consultant, who invited me to her all day crop to teach the Cricut. It was a good turnout and everyone seemed to have learned a lot.

And today... well, it just goes to show not everything is as it seems! I went to the ScrapNook expecting only one person in my 1:00 class and only one person in my 3:00 class. If I have a class scheduled and only one person is signed up, well, I feel I owe it to that person to show up, too. Before the first class got going, we had 3! And 4 in the second class! It was a great group! We had so much fun and I think they all learned, which is my complete goal.

If you have a Cricut you need to know a little bit better or you have the Design Studio software and would like to learn more about what you can do, shoot me an email and I'll get you signed up. I love my little bug and I love teaching what I know to everyone.

Did you know... you can make wordbooks... make your own custom made chipboard... weld words and shadow just about everything? You CAN! Call me and I'll teach you how!

June was Quite a Month!

2009-07-02T21:20:00.004-05:00

Would someone please tell me where time goes? I just popped over and realized it's been almost a month since I blogged. I vowed to do better and look at me! Well, I do have a bit of an excuse. June is my busy month at my day-job. We have a big conference and have close to 300 people attend. That's big to me! Anyway, I'm past that now and moving right into the 4th of July weekend! Oh, yeah, and a couple of weekends ago, we had our Carroll Cousin's reunion in Locust Grove, OK. What fun that was. I have such a crazy family. It was so hot some of us decided to just "take the plunge" and get wet. Well, everyone knows swimming works up an appetite! Once cousin went inside and came back out with an assortment of yummo desserts. Well, we didn't want to get out of the pool, so we made her bring the desserts IN the pool.

And then, on June 30, my assistant of 14 years retired. It was bittersweet seeing her go. We had a party and her family was there. Mary Jo, we will miss you!

Here is our group.

And Mary Jo and Ed... How sweet!

Cricut Class Weekend

2009-06-07T08:01:00.002-05:00

Judy and I got up early yesterday morning and headed to Mountain Home AR. We left here about 6:45 and got there close to 9:30. It was a beautiful drive and I think we hit every McDonald's along the way... for coffee, potty breaks and breakfasts! Lyla already had people there and before long the room was filled to the brim and we were "Learning How to Use Our Cricuts"!

At 11:30, we broke for a wonderful potluck lunch and before long, we were getting back together for the next class... "Beginning Design Studio". Again, we had a full house and everyone seemed to be learning and doing and just have a great time.

What a GREAT bunch of gals! This is my second set of classes I've done in Arkansas and I have SO enjoyed both of them. I love me some Arkansas Cricuteers!!!

Today, I am teaching 2 classes at the Scrap Nook. "Beginning Design Studio" and "Intermediate Design Studio" from 1pm to 5pm. I absolutely love watching my students learn and have "ah-hah!" moments.

Come join us!

2009-06-05T21:13:00.003-05:00

Here's a couple more pages I've recently done. I just love how they turned out. The paper is from "Daydream" from Close to My Heart and the colors are Lilac Mist, Blush and Sweet Leaf. Do you love the flowers? Those are Dimensional Elements from Close to My Heart covered in the paper from the same paper pack. I love the way they pop off the page. It doesn't show very well, but I did tons of hand stitching. The BIG flower, which is part on the left and part on the right and has "Girly Girl" in it was my favorite. It looks WAY better in real life. The pictures aren't right where I want them but Blogger won't let me move them! Let me know what you think by leaving me a comment! Thanks.

My backyard

2009-06-01T07:16:00.003-05:00

I was finally able to get my pictures to upload! Sometimes Blogger really tries me! Anyway... here are the benches. I love the color, don't you? See our Topsy Turvy planters? We got those for Mother's Day this year and I can't believe how well they are coming along. I also can't wait until we get tomatoes! I love fresh tomatoes and green peppers.

That's my dog, Ally, sitting there looking at me. Check out the next picture and see how she "helped" me paint the benches.

Yep, that's her hind quarter. She is NOT cut! She just kept walking by the benches and scraped her sides. BOTH SIDES! She looks like she has been in surgery! I have no idea how in the world I will get that off. I guess it just makes her my "striped dog"!

Outdoors Weekend

2009-05-31T11:35:00.003-05:00

My sister and I have spent most of the weekend outside. We started yesterday morning by mowing on our new/used John Deere rider. It is wonderful! I mowed and Judy trimmed and then I cut back some bushes and we spent some "sitting time" in the back yard admiring out work. Then this morning, I got headed out to scrape and repaint the benches on the deck out by the gazebo. My son-in-law helped us put lattice work on the top in place of the torn up canvas canopy over Mother's Day Weekend. It looks so great! Anyway, the benches needed some TLC. As I was scraping, I was uncovering the several other layers of paint. 2 shdes of blue, yellow and terracotta. I chose a bright red. They look fantastic!

I've been trying to upload some photos, but I can't get it to work!!! When I can, I will. Until then, just imagine... nice red park benches!

2 MORE from Memorial Day Weekend!

2009-05-25T12:51:00.002-05:00

And, here are TWO more! I used Close to My Heart's "Animal Cookies" Level 2 paper pack for these pages. I love this paper so much. It's so bright and cheerful. I matted pictures in Tulip and I cut some accents with the Cricut and used black bling and BIG yellow and blue brads. They just fit perfectly with these pages. I'm off to work on some more! I've got 2 more just about done. I'd love to get them finished and posted today. That will be 8 pages done this weekend! WOW! That's great for me!

Leave me a message and let me know what you think! Thanks!

2 more from Memorial Day Weekend

2009-05-25T12:43:00.006-05:00

Well, after doing the pages of "My Girls", it only seemed fitting to do pages of "My Boys"! I used Close to My Heart's "It's a Guy Thing" Level 2 paper pack. It was perfect for this layout. I cut a few elements using the Cricut and I used Barn Red Cardstock for accents. I like the way it turned out!

Memorial Day Weekend

2009-05-25T12:22:00.003-05:00

It has been rainy and stormy and humid all weekend and I've been scrapbooking with my sister the entire time! It's been awesome because we haven't had to feel guilty not doing yard work! So, she hauled all of her stuff over here and we have had a blast. AND, we've been productive. I know it's not much, but it's more than I've gotten done in months. I had been thinking about doing this layout for a long time now. I was wanting to do lots of different techniques on a page and that's just what I did. My base pages are from Close to My Heart's Whoops A Daisy Level 2 paper pack. I did all of my journaling on the computer, (which sure makes things go faster for me). I matted the two pictures on Hydrangea and from there on, I went crazy. The flowers each have some type of bling in them. "Unique" on the first page was cut on the Cricut using Hydrangea and Ocean Cardstock. The circles are each filled with a pearl half circle embellishment (looks much better in person). There's some stitching here, too

I actually did more stitching on this page. I love the flourishes."Love" is cut on the Cricut, also. And the brackets are Dimensional Elements from Close to My Heart. The bullet points are small pink paper flowers with a bling in the center.

2009-05-07T20:38:00.007-05:00

Here's a couple of pages I've done recently. Animal Cookies is one of the new Close to My Heart Paper Level 2 paper packs. I love the colors... Tulip, Dutch Blue, Clover Meadow and Sunflower. And of course, the best part of all.... my grandkids! All three of them!

Happy Birthday, Miss Trella

2009-05-06T06:46:00.003-05:00

Yesterday was my granddaughter's THIRD birthday! Wow, to be 3 and have your whole life ahead of you. Miss Trella got her beautiful name from my mom. I have only heard of 2 other people with it. Here she is eating birthday cake at her great, great aunt Gracie's 104th birthday party a couple of weeks ago. Isn't she beautiful! Ok, I've also added a picture of Aunt Gracie (who is my mom's oldest sister), too! 104 earns her a place on my blog, for sure!!!

I'm Back!

2009-05-05T06:43:00.002-05:00

I hope I can stay back! It's amazing to me how life just takes over and before you know it, it's May! I cannot believe it is May already. I suppose it's good to be busy. It means you aren't sitting around just watching you life pass you by. Even though it feels like life is flying by, it really does mean you are living it!

So many things are going on in the world right now... a new president, the economy in the toilet, everyone's savings and investments... gone, the outbreak of the Swine Flu. I know things could be worse, but it's pretty bad out there!

Now, in my personal life, I can't really complain! And that helps keep my mind off of what is going on out there in the "real world"! My new grandson is almost 5 months old, my granddaughter is 3 years old today (Happy Birthday Trella!), my oldest grandson will be 10, my family is doing good, I still have my job and I'm very busy at it, my Close to My Heart business is doing good... just had my Open House and it was a great success, I'm starting to teach Cricut classes and they are taking off... life is good! I really can't complain.

Now, it's just a matter of organizing, and that needs to include keeping up with my blog better! So, here it is May and I am making a new year's resolution... Keep up My Blog Better!!!!

But for now, I am off to get my computer packed up for Cricut class tonight, get ready for work today and then, after I get home, start cleaning house for the entire family to come this weekend for Mother's Day and Birthday celebrations!!!

Happy May!

Wow! Time Flies!

2009-01-28T06:59:00.001-06:00

I can't believe I haven't blogged in over a month! That is so not like me! But, it's been a very busy start to the new year. I promise I will be in a catch up mode over the next couple of days!

More Pictures of Baby Devin

2008-12-17T19:36:00.002-06:00

Just a few more pictures of my newest grandson. Finally, the weather has broke and I am going to able to head home tomorrow. It's really bittersweet.... I'm ready to be home, but I hate to leave this little one. Hopefully, I will get to see him in a week or so for the family Christmas in Springfield. He is doing so good. His mom is very lucky to have such a good baby.

Devin James - He's HERE!

2008-12-11T10:09:00.003-06:00

Well, I got the call last Sunday around noon and Shelly has lost her mucous plug. We talked and agreed it could be a while, like a few days, so no one got too excited! But, then, at 5:30, JR called and they were at the hospital! Her water broke around 4:30 and they got in there and were told they were going to have a baby! I got packed up (which I did just fine, except I forgot to take one whole suitcase of clothes!) and headed to Chanute. I got there at 10pm and things were looking good. Here we are looking all happy and excited about the impending birth!

Well... after 20 hours, 6 epidural tries that failed, she finally had him C-section.

At 12:54 pm on Monday, December 8th, Devin James made his way into this world! He weighed 6 lbs and 12 oz. and was 19 1/2 inches long and is perfect in every way!

Here is his announcement on the hospital marquee. I love small town hospitals. I was so worried that they would be able to handle everything, but I've got to say they were fabulous!!!

His dad says he WILL be an OU fan!

Here he is chilling out on daddy while mom is hanging out reading the paper. I was so amazed at how good she did! And what a good dad JR is. Such a happy little family! (We'll see what the 2 4-legged kids think of him when we all get home later today!)

Heit's Point Retreat - Nov 20 - 23

2008-11-24T21:15:00.005-06:00

All I can say is WOW! This was the most amazing time I've had in a long time. 17 of us converged on Heit's Point for the best Scrapbook Retreat ever! We ate and talked and laughed and even got a little scrapbooking done! I am posting these pictures just to give you a little taste of what we were doing. I hope to get some more posted later. I am hoping to get some of actual projects that got done!

Remember... You can click on the pictures and make them HUGE!

Here is Jeanne working on the computer. She was probably working on some journaling. That is the lake you see out the windows. It was an amazing view.

Here is a great shot of the room. Look at the stuff that was here! I couldn't believe how much stuff everyone brought! It was crazy!

Here's Debbie and Laura working on the Design Studio and the Cricut. Very intense.

And here is the whole group. We got down right silly after taking so many serious ones! I love this because this is just how we were the whole time! Having fun!!!

If you didn't make this one, don't miss the next one! We are already starting the plans in motion. If you'd like to be kept updated, just leave me a comment or shoot me an email and I'll add you to the list. You will have the time of your life!

Our Retreat

2008-11-18T21:37:00.004-06:00

Isn't this a beautiful setting? This is where our Retreat is being held this year.

And, I only have to work 1/2 day tomorrow and the rest of the day is for getting ready to go on Thursday. 4 days of bliss! Scrapbooking until we drop! Eatting until we can't move. Sleeping very little! No phones, no TV's, no kids, no husbands, no cleaning, no cooking... just scrapbooking and look at that view! sigh.... so close.

I'll take tons of pictures and I'll post when I get home. If you are joining us... drive carefully! If you aren't we'll be thinking about you and wishing you were there!

Happy Scrapping!

Gift Card Holder

2008-11-14T06:10:00.004-06:00

As I was preparing for a party tomorrow, I was trying to decide what "hands-on" item we would be making (I always like for my group to make something with our fabulous products). And since we are getting closer to the holidays, I was trying to keep that in mind. We have all made Christmas Cards at my workshops, so I needed something more unique.

I had seen a money holder card that caught my attention, but never got around to making it. So, I got my instructions out and starting making some dimensional changes. This was so easy I could hardly believe it! For the base of the card, I used a cardstock and cut it 6 x 4.25 (I tried 6 x 4 and it worked, but a gift card fit in there very tight, but for money, it would be perfect!). You score it at 2.5" and 5". Fold at both score lines and you will see it come together! I folded the small flap up and adhered just the edges, creating a pocket for the gift card or the cash.

Then, in order to keep it secure, I cut a strip of the cardstock 6 x 1.25. I tried scoring it, but I never could get it quite right, so I simply folded it around the card and it was perfect!

Before you do any adhering, you decorate as desired.

I used paper from the Aspen paper pack. The first one I made is for a girl. I used Pink Carnation Cardstock (which is retired but I still have tons of!). And just the back of the paper because I just wanted the beautiful muted blue only. Then, I stamped the snowman face from the November Stamp of the Month, All Decked Out (I love this set... it is so versatile!) on a piece of white cardstock (1.5 x 3, folded in half to make a tag) on the front. Then, with Hollyhock ink, I stamped the scarf on a piece of the Pink Carnation cardstock and cut it out. (I then used a little stickles on the scarf for accents - what girl doesn't love bling!)

And, of course, the blue, is for a boy. I used Outdoor Denim ink on Twilight paper on that one.

I thought they were fun and I hope you like them!

"Hidden" Crop Cash

2008-11-08T08:59:00.009-06:00

This post is for the Heit's Point Retreat ladies!

If you are looking for the answer to #9 of the Scavenger Hunt and you have found your way here (which you should have!) AND you are reading this post...

You have earned your

$100.00 Bonus CROP CASH!!!!!!

AND.... if you figure out how to leave me a COMMENT,
you will earn another
$50 in Crop Cash!!!

My Grandkids... Again!

2008-11-02T19:16:00.003-06:00

Don't they look sweet here?
She loves her brother so much and he is just so good with her.
I love this picture!

You have to click on this picture and look at it bigger. Her face is priceless!!!

Cards I Made from Art and Soul

2008-11-02T10:58:00.004-06:00

Have you had a chance to check out the newest video "Crazy for Cards" in the CTMHTV section "Art and Soul" of my website (www.jmpurves.myctmh.com)? Well, I watched it the other night and was thinking how much I wanted to try to make those 20 Christmas Cards! So, I put my mind to it yesterday and did it! It was hard... I have to admit... sticking to their plan. I kept wanting to do my own thing, but I didn't! I was very tempted several times, but I didn't! And I am so glad I didn't because these cards are fantastic! Ignore the mess around the group shot! I didn't even clean up before I wanted to take pictures! I may just have to get busy and do another group with a different Level kit!

In case you haven't checked it out, here's the deal. You use only 5 sheets of the background and texture paper (the patterned stuff) and all of the cardstock from a Level 2 kit (I used our new Evensong Collection and Cranberry and New England Ivy Ink) and follow their cutting directions. So check these out! And let me know what you think!

Lewis Family Reunion

2008-10-12T16:47:00.004-05:00

Just as we've done for the past 5 years, we had our Lewis (my dad's side of the family) reunion at my brother's house this weekend. How in the world can so many people have so much to say! It was absolutely non-stop talking, oh, yes, and eating. Sue fixed more food that I believe is legal to have in one house on any one weekend. All I can say is WOW!

It was so good to see everyone. Here's a few pictures that were taken. (Be sure and click on the pictures to see them MUCH bigger!)

Here a bunch of them are around the fire in the back yard. That's Lake of the Ozarks in the background. Such a beautiful view and the weather was perfect!

I think I made my brother deaf! My sister and sister in law were being crazy and shoving and pushing and I was about to fall, so I squeeled.... right in Jim Bob's ear! Oooops!

This is a new bridge and I just thought it was really neat and was a great photo op!

Here's the whole clan!

That's Sue(my sister in law) on the left and Judy (my sister) on the right. That kitchen was buzzing the entire time we were there. I think Sue said she went through 6 dozen eggs and 8 pounds of sausage. There is no telling how much else she went through. She fixed enough food to feed a small nation.

Thanks Jim Bob and Sue! You always go completely out of your way for your guests... and we always appreciate it!

Grandma Babysits!

2008-09-29T06:51:00.005-05:00

I learned several things this past weekend (I babysat for my 9 year old and 2 year old grandkids for the past 4 days!).

God had good reason for NOT letting older women have kids.
Older women may be wiser, but have WAY less patience.
2 year olds are completely capable of kicking your butt.
No one talks more but than a 2 year old (and what language is that?).
There are no sweeter hugs and kisses than from grandkids.
I am NOT smarter than a 3rd grader (much less a 5th grader!)
There is no way to keep a house picked up with 2 kids in it.
You cannot keep enough milk in the refridgerator with kids in the house.
You better have a vehicle with a DVD player in it.
When you get any of those dang Chipmunk songs in your head, they do NOT leave.
I need to exercise more.
There is nothing more peaceful than 9:30 at night when everyone is asleep!
When they say "I can do it", they MEAN IT!

It was a great time! Really, it was! And don't they look like little angels!!!!

Don't let the one in pink fool you!!!!

Oh, and one last thing.... Dorothy, you were so right... "There's NO place like home!" Both theirs and mine!!!!

I love you Brenden and Trella!

Christmas Card Workshops

2008-09-16T21:50:00.003-05:00

Here's what I'm doing this year for my Christmas Card Workshops. This is my blue set using the new Close to My Heart Aspen papers. Attendees will be making 2 each of 5 cards for $10.00. So far, I have 3 workshops that are filling fast!

And these are the more traditional red and green set made from the new Close to My Heart Evensong papers. I can't decide which ones I like better. I have a feeling I'll be making a bunch of both for myself!

News from My Open House... But First!

2008-09-07T09:31:00.004-05:00

Did you all see those adorable little girl invitations I was going to do for my daughter's upcoming baby shower? Well, she had her 2nd level ultrasound last Wednesday and guess what... here are the NEW shower invitations!That's right! They are NOT pink! Shelly and JR are having a boy! Devin James. I know... Devin is spelled wrong on this one, but this is just a sample. All of the ones we made last night have the correct spelling!

Shelly told me Friday morning she is so glad it's a boy because she was already sick of PINK! She is such a "NOT PINK" girl! Yeah! We are so excited!!!

I'm working on finishing up my Open House stuff and I'll post soon! I promise!!!

Memory Box

2008-09-04T21:57:00.004-05:00

This is my take on the Memory Keeper, a new Close to My Heart product. I had been uninspired until I saw the one in Keynotes, our bi-annual newsletter we consultants get from Corp. I lifted the idea and changed is just a hair. I love it now! This is my mom, Trella and my granddaughter, Trella, who, obviously, was named after her. I put the My Pages Talk inside and told Baby Trella about who she was named after. Very cool!
It's for my open house Saturday and then, I'll put some stuff in it and give it to Baby Trella for Christmas. My mom has been gone for 10 years. They never knew each other.

Holiday Bows

2008-09-03T07:20:00.004-05:00

Check out these bows made out of a 6 x 12" piece of paper! I love them. Here is what you need:

6" x 12" piece Double Sided Patterned Paper (which we now have!)
Paper Cutter
Pop-Up Glue Dots
Adhesive
Brads
1/16" Circle Punch

And here is the link to the directions... SUPER simple! Enjoy and let me know if you try them!

http://www.splitcoaststampers.com/resources/paperbow.php

Busy, Busy, Busy

2008-09-01T06:44:00.004-05:00

I've been busy, busy, busy getting ready for my Close to My Heart Open House this coming Saturday. I always like to have as much new product to show along with examples of projects made of as much of the new stuff as I can.

I hope to have a good crowd. So far, the RSVP's are looking good!

I am going to be doing this cute flip top recipe album as a workshop in November. It has 12 pages and is just adorable. We learned to make this at our retreat last weekend.

I am also going to be holding a Christmas Card Workshop in October. Such cute ideas! I just might even make some for myself!

I've also been trying to organize my stamps sets. Whew! Now that's been a chore! I have over 150 and after about 80, I felt like I was completely out of control. At least now, I know what I have, now finding it is another story!!

We are planning a shower for Shelly and baby Devan the first weekend in October. I am doing the invitations. What a great excuse to get my newest toy... a CUTTLEBUG! Check out the embossing on this sweet little dress. It is much prettier in person, but I think you get the idea.

Oh, yeah, I started another newsletter this past week. It all about Cricuting! How much fun is that! If you'd like to join, just send me an email and I'll add you on.

Well, I'd better go. Today is the last full day I have to finishing preparing for my Open House. I'm getting pretty close, so it will just be adding finishing touches.

So, until next time... HAPPY SCRAPPING!

Local CTMH Consultant's Retreat

2008-08-23T20:01:00.005-05:00

Well, today was our local CTMH Consultant's retreat. Christina had us all gather at a building next to her church. There were 22 of us present and I completely lost track of what all we made. It was a marathon day of creating. Every project we did was absolutely fantastic. I was going to take pictures of all of my projects, but Lyla put the pressure on to get my blog updated.... before she got home! So, I'm at least doing that!

Once I finish up all of the projects... (tomorrow, I promise!) I'll get pictures taken and posted here. I am just too tired tonight!

This is a great shot of the group hard at work.

And here is one of not so many at work! You'll see why in a couple of pictures down (and no, I have no idea why this is underlining or how to make it stop!!!!)

Here's Miss Bettyann concentrating very hard on her project.

And THIS is where everyone was! There was more food than we had sense! And of course we had to fill up to be able to continue on to an afternoon of intense creating.

And finally, it was time to just take pictures because we knew there would be no way our minds would retain what all we saw and did today.

I so love getting together with this group of women. Everyone is so fun and kind and caring and simply wonderful to be around. Bettyann and I were talking about why we do what we do. And we both agreed the creating is awesome... the additional income (if you're lucky enough to have any!) is nice... but the friendships you make with these other consultant's are absolutely priceless. I truly am blessed to have been introduced to so many creative and and just plain NICE woman. I consider each of you a friend.

So, until next time, I only have one thing to say.... HAPPY SCRAPPIN' TO ALL OF MY CTMH SISTAHS!

Friday Night Crop at Sarah's

2008-08-23T19:48:00.004-05:00

Last night was our monthly Friday Night Crop at Sarah's! Here are the pages we did. The baseball pages were done with Game On paper pack and the School pages were random stamped using a new stamp set Stamp Around. These were a lot of fun and the ladies seemed to get through them quickly. Of course, I had to put my Cricut to work to cut the team name and position names in the team colors. That was so cool!

Monthly Crop at My House

2008-08-16T13:04:00.002-05:00

Last night, I held an open crop at my house. There were 7 of us and we had so much fun! We had more food than we knew what to do with and stuff was spread out everywhere!

Here is Lori trying her hand at our acrylix stamps. She did great! I'm not sure how many pages she got done, but I do believe she may have been the most productive! Yes, right there on the lower left corner of the picture is our new Ink Pad/Marker carousel! New products aren't to be revealed until September 1, but it just kind of slipped into the picture! I LOVE IT SO MUCH!

This is Dorinda, Becky and Judy (my sister and holding Angel) working (looks more like talking) away!

Here is Shirley very involved in her pages. I think she gets the award for bringing the most stuff! (Shirley, you DO give me a run for my money when it comes to volume!)

And there's Rebecca. No, we did not banish her to my scrapbook desk! She chose that spot so she could spread out more (and spill powder EVERYWHERE! - that's another story!)

We really had fun and I can't wait until next month!

Man Makes Card

2008-08-12T06:40:00.002-05:00

I found this website this morning and watching it cracked me up! And, I needed that to start my day today! I thought you could use a laugh, too!

I couldn't get it embedded in here, so just copy and paste this address into your browser. You'll need to turn the volume up, it seemed really low to me.

Enjoy!

http://www.livevideo.com/video/537FF9DA20B44560845DEE157D1F9DD6/man-made-card.aspx?m_tkc=7540036

Busy Busy Week

2008-08-10T21:07:00.005-05:00

This has been quite a busy week! Since learning on Tuesday I was going to be Grandma again, I learned on Wednesday it is going to be a girl! Here are the ultrasound pictures. The first one is of her precious little face!

And this one is her feet. She had her legs crossed at the ankles and you can see her feet!

Technology amazes me! When I was having my babies, the only time you got an ultrasound was if there was a problem, so you really kind of hoped you never had to have one... which I didn't!

In between spending a lot of time on the phone with both of my girls, I have also been very busy designing 6 cards for our Consultant's retreat in a couple of weeks. Designing is one thing but cutting all of those pieces for 40 sets of 6 cards is a LOT of work! But, I'm almost done. I've got 5 done and cut out and have to start on the 6th one. It's so much more fun when you are working on NEW product, which I am!

I can't wait for my open house on September 6th so I can show everyone all the new and fun goodies from Close to My Heart.

Well, I've gotta run. It's getting late and I was up late last night watching John's band, Wire Road, make their debut performance at the Outback in Branson. They did good but those late hours are NOT for old folks!

I'm Gonna Be a Grandma Again!

2008-08-06T06:46:00.002-05:00

Well, I got back from Convention safe and sound. My mind is still whirring with information and ideas! I wasn't sure how long it just might take me to settle down! Yesterday was my first day back to work, so for the morning, I was just taking it easy and tryed to slowly settle back into reality when, a little after lunch, I got a phone call... I'm going to be a Grandma again! The most amazing thing is that we didn't thing Shelly would be able to have children! Woohoo!

I am so excited! It was quite a shock to her as she is right at 5 months along! I know... I know... how in the world would you NOT know! Well, she had her reasons and was truly SHOCKED when that big ole + sign showed up! She has her OB appointment this morning and will get a due date along with what she is having! That may feel like the shortest pregnancy in history!

JR's text to me last night was so cute..."What a pleasant surprise! 5 Months.... WOW!... SO much to do!"

I told Shelly I needed to get home and start knitting! PLUS... another subject to SCRAPBOOK!

2 Cards

2008-07-27T10:07:00.004-05:00

While packing for Convention, I felt a need to create hit me! So, I sat down and made these 2 cards. They were very simple and quick! I love that!

The pink circles are punched out of Blush CTMH cardstock. I used Chocolate CTMH grograin ribbon and Chocolate ink for the stamped lined circles (I don't remember what set I found that in!

I stamped the stems and flower centers with Garden Green and the flowers and words with Honey (my new favorite yellow!). The flowers and stems are from June Word Puzzle (I so love the Word Puzzles - you can do SO much with them!) and "Happy everything" is from the June SOTM (stamp of the month) "With Love" (another favorite set!)

OK, so that is out of my system... I can get back to cleaning house! Day after tomorrow I leave!!!! WOOHOO!!! Orlando, here I come!

Only 3 More DAYS!

2008-07-26T08:59:00.002-05:00

I am getting so excited about CTMH Convention 2008. My friend Lyla, will be here Tuesday and she and I will be heading to Kansas City to catch our plane early Wednesday morning to Orlando! This will be my first convention and with all the hype that is going on in the Bulletin Boards, I am getting so excited, I can hardly wait.
So, this weekend is my planning time. Cleaning house, doing laundry, getting the last minute errands run, making sure bills are paid... you know the drill. There is just so much to get done to get ready to be gone for 5 days!
Anyway, I gotta get busy. I just wanted to quickly type in an update. I hope to update while I'm there (every room has its' own computer, so I don't have to lug mine through the airports!).
Later...

And the winner is...

2008-07-21T06:38:00.001-05:00

www.clearlyinspired.blogspot.com is the winner!

Kim has a great site and fabulous tutorials. Be sure to go check out her site if you haven't. You won't be disappointed!

I Won an AWARD!

2008-07-15T06:40:00.006-05:00

WOW! Check this out! My friend and CTMH sister, Tracy http://www.joyinliving.blogspot.com/ blessed me with this WeBlog Award! I was so surprised and honored! How exciting it is to be honored and recognized by my stamping peers!

It's a special award that's given to weblogs that somehow catch your eye! The rules to rules for this award are:

1. The winner can put the logo on her blog

2. Link the person you received your award from.

3. Nominate at least 7 other blogs

4. Put links of those blogs on yours.

5. Leave a message on the blogs of the girls you've nominated.

I am going to nominate these ladies as their blogs have been an inspiration to me and ones I check on daily.

http://www.simplybeautifulcreations.blogspot.com/
http://www.clearlyinspired.blogspot.com/
http://www.stampspaperscissors.typepad.com/
http://www.cindyscreativecrafts.blogspot.com/
http://www.sullyscrapandstamp.blogspot.com/
http://www.createwithtraci.blogspot.com/
http://www.trinkaking.blogspot.com/

So... vote here! Leave a comment or send me an email and I'll announce the winner next Monday! Vote for your favorite!

My Grandkids

2008-07-13T13:56:00.003-05:00

I guess I'm like every other Grandma, I think my grandkids are the cutest ones in the entire world! Miss Trella just turned 2 in May. I used Whoops A Daisy B & T paper and Ocean and Kiwi cardstock. I used Home Accents for the scrolls and Stone Script for her name on the Cricut. I am usually the one who wants to get as many pictures on a page as possible, however, when I saw these two pictures, I just had to do the "single picture" page... just once, well, twice! Let me know what you think!

Brenden turned 9 in May. I used It's a Guy Thing B & T paper and New England Ivy, Barn Red and Desert Sand cardstock for the rings, which were all cut on my Cricut. I've been wanting to do something with rings but just didn't have the right layout but this B & T paper just screamed for them! Let me know what you think about this one, too!

I love my grandkids, I just wish I lived closer so I could see them more. In the meantime, I'll just focus on scrapbooking them! Thanks for looking!

4th of July - Scrapbooked!

2008-07-12T17:09:00.004-05:00

Well, this is nothing short of a miracle! Only one, count them... ONE short week after the 4th and I have my 3 2-page layouts of the weekend done! I can hardly believe it! My sister and I got up this morning and by 8am, we were printing pictures. And shortly after that, we were on our way to designing pages. I finished my 6 pages about a 1/2 hour ago and she is finishging up her last 2-page layout. That's a total of 12 pages between the 2 of us in one day! WOWSA!

Check them out and let me know what you think! My red didn't show up as well as I'd like for it to have. I used all Close to My Heart product (except for the red stickles on the cut out stars!). I used the stripe and butterflies from Blue Ribbon Paper Pack and I used Cranberry, Outdoor Denim, Indian Corn Blue and Colonial White Cardstock. My Acrylix stamp sets I used were Vintage USA, June and July Word Puzzles and stamp pads to match the cardstock. I typed my journaling and enhanced the journaling blocks with stamps and ink distressing on the edges. I also used Twill and Cranberry ribbon.

All of that with fantastic pictures of a great family finished up these pages. Phew... until next 4th!

4th of July - Lewis Reunion

2008-07-11T20:42:00.016-05:00

Everybody converged on my brother's house for the 4th. It has almost become tradition... this is the third year, so I guess it now qualifies! We just hung out, talked, ate, watched the kids have a great time and just enjoyed the day. Here's some random pictures taken of the day.

That's my Grandson, Brenden

That's my son-in-law, David and my brother, Jim Bob.

Taylor, my great niece, Trella, my grandaughter and Shelly, my oldest daughter

Shelly and Brenden

Miss Trella

Sue, my sister-in-law, Liam, her grandson and Trella

Taylor and Shelly

Trella and Lisa (Taylor's mom)

At the pool My bathing beauty!

Of course there were games. Guess How Many M & M's are in the jar was quite interesting. My lame 150 didn't even cover the bottom of the container! I think there ended up being over 700 or some rediculous number. Pamela won! Woohoo! And she shared the M and M's with all of us!

Sue even had personalized M and M's made just for the occasion!

Then, we started playing charades. That's me on the left doing who knows what. Even the kids got into the game. We really had a lot of fun with this.

And here we are just sitting around after playing charades and other games. What a great time we had!

My brother was pretty tired after a long day with family. Poor baby! I'm just not sure how he could sleep with all the people around! I sure don't think I could have! But he had to get his nap in because he would soon be cooking hot dogs and making homemade ice cream for everyone!

It was a fantastic 2008 4th of July! Thanks Jim Bob and Sue for making it a great time!

Stamp Kissing

2008-06-22T20:46:00.004-05:00

I am just so dang tired after our big conference at work this past week, I decided to something fairly easy here today. And when I ran across this tutorial and got permission from the fabulous Tressa Black (the author of the tutorial) to put this on our blogs, I thought "Yeah! My job is complete for today's blog!"

Be sure and go visit her on her blog at http://www.fabulouslyartsy.blogspot.com/.

I'll be back tomorrow or Tuesday to catch up! (If it doesn't play when you click on it, it's because there is so much traffic being sent to the site as she just published it. Wait a little while and come back!)

Cousin's Reunion 2008

2008-06-16T06:27:00.005-05:00

My mom and her sister's used to get together for a sister's reunion once a year. It was just those 5 girls and no one else was invited! We have pictures to tell us some of the stories, but 4 of the 5 of them are gone now and many of those stories and secrets and private moments have gone with them.
Well, those sister's had lots of kids. And those kids had kids and so on and so on!
Last year, the oldest sister, Aunt Gracie (who by the way is 103 this year!) daughter's (5 of them, too!) all got to talking and decided to have a cousin's reunion. We had the best time. We thought! Well, this year, we did it again! (Sounds like we have started something here!)
We met in Locust Grove Oklahoma at Trixie's house, Saturday. Food was being brought in and people were coming for miles. Oh, my! What an afternoon. After we all got done eating (for the time being), we started catching up. The talking and the laughter could have been heard for miles! I really think we were louder than usual! I suppose when you have something to say and you want to be heard, ya gotta be loud!

Here we are, in the house, just sitting around talking and eating. Our cousing Jenny made it this year. I had never met her before and I could tell immediately she was a Carroll! She was just like the rest of us. She came in with a big box of pictures she had that were her "grannys". My Aunt Beulah. I saw pictures of my grandparent's parents. Until that moment, I had only known of their existence on paper. I had never seen a picture of them. And then, more... my family was all in that box! It was a little overwhelming but absolutely fantastic!
Then, we all started the de-toxing. That will have to be a story for later. Judy has pictures of my feet in the water. You soak your feet in the tub of water charged with electricity (oh, and don't forget the grounding of your body!). All of this junk comes out of your feet. Gross! Pretty amazing stuff.
Saturday night was the big weiner roast. We all sat around the fire and talked and told stories. And a little after dark, we all started getting ready to go to our respective sleeping places. Judy and I were inside helping put stuff away when someone said "Come on girls... let's go swimming!" Most replied... "I don't have a bathing suit!". "Who cares!!!". So, off to find a t-shirt and then to meet at the pool.
But, not before Aunt Gracie makes things a little exciting. As we were standing there discussing the pool, we hear a faint... "help!". It was Aunt Gracie (now, remember, she is the 103 year old). She had fallen out of bed. She was just fine, but she was on the floor! After she got her sense about her, she wanted it made very clear that was the very FIRST time that had happened! With the help of several, we got her back in bed. She quickly said... "I'm ok... you all get out of here!". So we did.
And off to changing clothes. Judy and I headed to the motorhome. We found Sue in bed and almost asleep. With much persuading, we got her out of bed and heading up to the pool with us. She was not happy about it! And, oh my goodness! The water was SO cold!
We didn't swim long, but we did swim... ALL the girls that were there!
Then, off to bed for a wonderful nights sleep filled with happy thoughts of the day.
The morning woke everyone to thunder and lightening and rain! We were fine, but we were sure thinking about those in the tents!
Breakfast at 8:30, more talking and then the saying goodbyes.
Once again, it was a wonderful time and we can't wait until next year!
Thanks so much to the Garoutte Girls! We had a blast!
(I was so busy this year talking, I didn't get nearly as many pictures as I wanted! Hopefully, I'll be able to get some from all of those other camera buffs!)

Too Busy!

2008-06-11T20:56:00.003-05:00

This is my crazy week. At my job, we are getting ready for a big conference that will be held next week starting Tuesday and finishing up Saturday with a big Golf tournament. As of this morning, we had 312 people registered. They are coming in from 28 different states and it's going to be very busy! This week is crazy because this is the week we are finalizing things and you know, if something is going to go wrong, it will be this week because it will reak panic in everyone! And right in the middle of everything, I am having to interview to try to find a replacement for one of my people.

But, everything is going to be just fine. I had a talk with myself early this week and I made a decision. I decided that if I remain calm, that no matter what happens, it can be dealt with much better. And I have done so... and I think it has been reflected in my unit. Yes, we've had out panic moments, but we've dealt with it and we've gotten through it. And blood pressure has stayed down. (note to self... remain calm... it's contagious)

Anyway, I got home tonight and my brain was just fried. I met my sister on the patio and after chatting for a few minutes, we, of course, decided we were hungry. But, as usual, we didn't know what we wanted. We ate really healthy last night. She fixed these wonderful foil packets of potatoes, onion and chicken on the grill with a side of peas. YUM! So, tonight, we didn't feel like being so good.

Off to Pasta Express we went. Motzarella Sticks and Marinara Sauce and a diet Coke. mmmmm. And then, off to Dairy Queen. Have you seen those crazy new chocolate covered strawberry sundaes in a chocolate dipped waffle cone? All I can say is... OMG! These are heaven on earth! And I really can't believe I ate the whole thing!!! And so did SHE!!!!

If it doesn't cause me to have nightmares, I will probably sleep really well tonight and be ready for more interviews and another day full of surprises tomorrow.

Wish me luck!

Hopefully, after the conference next week, I'll be able to get back to being creative and come up with some more projects to post!

Happy Scrapping!

Cards I Made Last Night

2008-06-07T19:19:00.009-05:00

I just love these cards. I found them on the CTMH Bulletin Boards and just had to play with the design last night. I like the boldness yet the simplicity of them.

All of the cards are 5" x 4"

On "Great Job", I cut 2 strips (1" x 5") using the stripe from Paper Garden.. "Great" was stamped on White Daisy (2 1/8" x 5") in Sweet Leaf using Rustic Alphabets and "Job" was stamped in Petal using Precious Alphabets.

Thank You was made the same way only I stamped
"Thank" in Petal and "You" in Sweet Leaf.

On "Happy Birthday" I used the Polka Dot from Whoops A Daisy. (I used the same dimensions as above). "Happy" was stamped using Rustic Alphabets in Ocean and "Birthday" in Hydrangea.

I hope you like them as much as I do!

The Eagles in Branson!

2008-06-02T21:29:00.002-05:00

Ok, well, it wasn't the REAL Eagles, it was the Eagles Tribute Band. They were so incredible. They sang all of my favorites and by the end of the show, everyone was up and dancing... even John! Being the music critic he is, I wasn't sure what he'd think about them, but he was impressed! If you are ever in Branson, I'd highly recommend seeing this show... actually, it's more of a concert. Nonstop music... no comedian... no talking... just music! And, you better love The Eagles, because that's ALL you get!

I forgot my camera, so this was taken on my cell phone. Not the best, but you get the idea!

Happy Monday!

2008-06-02T18:35:00.003-05:00

Most people don't Monday's, but I do... really! It's the start of a whole new week! And lots of time ahead of you to accomplish things. Work was busy today, as it will be over the next couple of weeks. We have a big conference my unit is very involved in that will occur the week after Father's Day. And the weekend of Father's Day is our Cousin's Reunion in Oklahoma. I have a workshop that Friday night, but after that is over with, my sister and I will hop aboard the Lewis bus (my brother's motorhome) and head to Locust Grove Oklahoma! We will drive to Joplin and park it in a Cracker Barrel and spend the night. Yes, that is only 1 hour from home, but it's what we do every year! Then, Saturday morning we will get up and eat breakfast at Cracker Barrel and then head on down. It will be a lot of fun seeing everyone again. Hopefully the weather will hold for us and the campers won't get wet!

I'll be sure to take lots of pictures to share when I get back.

I haven't been too creative here lately. I have been working on more "fabric trashbags" and will need to get lots more made later in the year.

Close to My Heart is having a fantastic special this month. STAMPAGANZA! This only comes along once a year. You can buy 2 sets of stamps and get the 3rd of of equal or lesser value for free! FREE! Stop by my website www.jmpurves.myctmh.com and check it out. If you don't have a new 08 Summer Idea book, click HERE to look at one online. And you can also check out the 08 Spring Idea book by clicking HERE. AND, you can go to the Product Guide by clicking HERE to see any sets that aren't in either of those books. And to make it really handy... you can order right off my website!

I'm off to grab some dinner and then try to get the yard mowed! Later!

June Workshop Pages

2008-05-28T21:32:00.005-05:00

For whatever reason, I am so prepared for June workshops! The first one is at my neice's house. We have so much fun and I can hardly wait each month to get together. But, I usually am spending the night before cutting, cutting, cutting getting ready! But not this month! I am done and I also have July's done! But, I won't post those for a while.

In addition to the Mother's Love pages already posted, we will be doing Father's Day pages. I totally lifted this from another talented consultant, but... I can't remember who it was! I try so hard to write down the name in case I do use something, but I couldn't find it when I went to look for it. If it's yours, thank you and I'm sorry I can't give you the proper credit.

I've used Sarsparilla and I have fallen in love with it. And I love the simplicity of these pages. In addition to the B & T from Sarsparilla, I used Twilight, Desert Sand and Barn Red Cardstock along with 3 Black Itty Brads as well as Dimensional Element Flowers (in 2 sizes and stacked). I covered the larger flower with the plaid B & T and ink distressed the smaller one and stamped it with "Father's Day" from the May Stamp of the Month. All products used were Close To My Heart. As usual, let me know what you think.

Getting Back to Normal

2008-05-27T19:35:00.002-05:00

It's Tuesday, the day after a long weekend. I think I left my brain somewhere. I can't seem to get it together today! I want it to still be the long weekend!

Anyway, I am playing catch up tonight... can't do much that's too productive because I am too dangerous!

Hopefully, I'll be back to normal tomorrow. Phew. A few more hours and I can go to bed and get up in the morning and start over.

Memorial Day 2008

2008-05-26T16:53:00.002-05:00

My friend, Diana, went home today. What a great visit we had. I already miss her and can't wait until our next visit.

I've been working this afternoon on getting workshop projects ready for June. June is quite a busy month for me at my job (the one that actually pays the bills!). We have a big conference near the middle of the month and there are a lot of last minutes projects and finishing touches that have to be tended to. Usually my Close to My Heart business lags a bit this month... by design.

However, this month could be different with new Constant Campaign that will be announced later in the week. Check back! You're going to love it!

I will try to get my new pages posted soon. It's been a rainy cool day and has been perfect for being inside. But, isn't it interesting what humidity can do to paper? Note to self... close up house and turn on a/c next time you work on pages!!!

Junk Sale Shoppin' Saturday

2008-05-24T21:08:00.002-05:00

My oldest daughter got here last night about 9 and she and Diana and I sat up talking until after 11. We were up early this morning as the plan was to hit Panera for breakfast and start garage saleing as soon as the doors opened. Well, the weather was not in our favor... at least not for garage saleing. Instead, we got up, put on the coffee, and headed out to the front porch to enjoy the thunder and lightening and rain. We did that for about 2 hours and finally got dressed and headed to Panera. And then, decided we would go junk storing (thrift stores) instead of the garage sales. At least we would be under a roof for a little longer at a time.

We headed to Ozark. Found 4 there. Then on to Nixa and found 2 there. Every place we wet there was some kind of sale. And some treasure one of us couldn't live without. We laughed til we cryed! We had so much fun! We made our way back into Springfield mid afternoon and had a snack at Andy's Frozen Custard and then to Fuji's Japanese Steakhouse for dinner.

We didn't drag back home until around 6. We unloaded all of our stuff and Shelly loaded her car and headed home and Diana and I crashed on the couch.

Just like old times! We absolutely had a blast! Can't wait to see what tomorrow brings!

Happy Friday!

2008-05-23T05:12:00.005-05:00

I am so excited! My best friend in the whole world is coming to visit me today. She should be rolling in here around noon. Diana and I have known each other over 25 years. Back in August of 1982, she had only been working at her new job a couple of days when she went to the front desk to escort another new employee upstairs. We were on the elevator and something cracked us up. We were destined to be buds. It didn't take long to get us talking to each other. We quickly learned we were both single mom's of daughter's (she - 1, me - 2), we had gotten married at the exact time, day and year back in 1972 (and were divorced about the same time), we were the very same age (only 19 days apart), we were living in the same apartment complex (of a big city like Omaha, NE) and we had the same warped sense of humor. Through the years, we learned we had so much more in common. We have gone through everything, including moving away from each other to becoming grandma's. Nothing can keep us apart. We always pick right back up wherever we left off. Whether we've been away for a month of 5 years. It is the only true "contstant" in our lives. Everyone needs a friend like Diana. She will be here until Monday, so I don't know how much blogging I will get done! But I will try to keep everyone on top of what we are doing. WOOHOO! I can't wait!

Update on my Grandson, Brenden

2008-05-22T06:21:00.003-05:00

Many of you have been following Brenden's medical issues since March 25th when the doctors found a large cyst on his brain following a routine MRI for reoccurring headaches. Initially, he saw the doctors locally, but had a follow up appointment last Friday in St. Louis. Thankfully, that went well. For that, we are all so grateful! His entire story can be read on his Caring Bridge website... http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/superbrenden08
It just so happened that the trip to St. Louis coincided with his 9th birthday, so while there, the whole family took in the sites. If you'd like, click on the link below for a fun slide show of the weekend. I enjoyed it and I hope you will, too!

Brenden's Montage 5/21/08

Graduation

2008-05-21T06:48:00.005-05:00

I had a great birthday yesterday. Lots of birthday well wishes and John took me to dinner at Lambert's. That's a way to blow your diet! There is NOTHING like those hot throwed rolls. It was all very good. We went early so I could get back to town for a special event.
My sister, Judy, was a teacher this year... for the first time in her life! She was a pre-school teacher at her church, Glendale Christian Church's, preschool. Last night was graduation. How cute! The entire school had their spring program and was immediately followed by the graduation ceremony. I cried and I didn't even know any of the kids!

That's her on the far left!

Happy Birthday to ME!

2008-05-20T06:38:00.002-05:00

Yes, today is my birthday! Busy day ahead! Will be working all day, but my group has to go over to the hotel where our big conference is being held in June so we can work out conference details. They are taking me to lunch first. Then after work, I am meeting John in Ozark and we are going to Lambert's for dinner. YUM! And then, I am going to the graduation of my sister's class. She teaches pre-school and her 5 year olds are graduating. How Cute is THAT! Hopefully, I'll get some good pictures that I can post later on tonight.

Last night, I attended out Scrapbook MeetUp Group. We had such a nice time. I didn't get any pages done, but I did get some other stuff done for workshops. And in record time! Those concentrated 3 hours are like heaven-sent for me. I don't know why, but I can just pound out the stuff! And I so enjoy the group. DeDe has become a really good friend. She is a Creative Memories Consultant. We have no competition and I love that. The other ladies are diverse... from beginning scrapbooking to 8 or 9 years experience like DeDe and I.

If you are in the Springfield area, check out this website http://scrapbook.meetup.com/1286/ and plan to join us sometime. We meet once a month from 5 - 9. We'd love to see you there!

Mother's Love pages

2008-05-18T08:32:00.005-05:00

I had a workshop last night for one of my club members, Kim. We had a great turn out. There were some experienced scrapbookers and some newbies there. I love a mix like that. This was a great bunch of gals and I hope to see them all again sometime.

Here are the pages we did. Mother's Love. These can be used for Mother's Day or just for cool pictures of kids and moms.

I used several techniques and products.

Random stamped B & T (background and texture)

Paper Garden Kit

Petal and Sweet Leaf Cardstock

Big Pinks (flowers)

Spring Buttons

Printing on Post It Notes

Printing pictures in Black and White (makes any picture work with paper you fall in love with!)

Cropping pictures down to 3 x 3

Cricut words (welded and regular cut)

All Mom's Should See This!

2008-05-16T18:00:00.007-05:00

I just got an update on the Close to My Heart Convention I am going to this year in July. I mean, come on, if you love scrapbooking like I do, what could be more fun than going to a Corporate Convention in Orlando Florida for 4 days and 2,000 other people who love scrapbooking as much or more (if possible!) than me! AND travel with the greatest travel partner ever, Lyla! Anyway... in the update today, they told us the headline performer will be Anita Renfroe. I hadn't heard of Anita Renfroe until I opened this video. I saw this a while back and was rolling on the floor. Everything I EVER said to my kids is repeated in this hysterical performance. So, moms, take about 3 minutes, turn up your volume, sit back and enjoy this. THIS IS FOR YOU!

Let me know what you think!

Crafty Daughter's Projects

2008-05-15T18:15:00.006-05:00

I just have to share my daughter's talents. Stacy, my youngest made this adorable marshmallow fondant cake for her daugther, Trella's 2nd birthday. All I could say was WOW!

Shelly, my oldest daughter, made these pillows for a friend who was having an "Arabian Knights" party. She hadn't sewn since Home Ec in High School (at least 10 years ago). I think they are fabulous!

I am so proud of both of them. It was funny, because as they were growing up, I don't think they really appreciated the crafts so much, but now, that they are all grown up, it looks like they can't fight the feeling any longer!

Thanks for looking!

And Here are Three More!

2008-05-15T18:04:00.003-05:00

Here are three more! And would you believe someone has already bought them! I had to get pictures before I put them in the mail!

I love crafts so much. I wish I could do it all day long. Right now, it's only at night! Someone asked me today if I had a life! I said YES! My crafts! I do not see one thing wrong with that.

My dear friend, Diana, is coming to visit me next weeked (Memorial Day). We have been friends for 25 years. We only get to see each once or twice a year and we are having withdrawals! I sure hope she doesn't expect a clean house or food in the fridge! Who am I kidding. She knows me so well and she knows how OCD I am, so being caught up in my crafts won't come as a surprise to her.

I can't wait to see her!

Help! I've Started and I Can't Stop!

2008-05-14T20:19:00.004-05:00

I love these things! And we've got a store here in town called the FM Store. When I was a kid, it was called the Farmer's Market. I don't know exactly when it changed, but back then, it was like a Dollar General of the 60's. A big dime store only cheaper! NOW, it is a huge fabric store. They have the largest selection of Waverly fabric in town. And more tapestry than you would know what do to with. The more contemporary section has really caught my eye. I bought 10 different pieces of fabric and put these 2 together tonight. I hope you enjoy them!

Megan's Concert

2008-05-14T06:29:00.008-05:00

Judy and I went to Megan's 7th grade Band Concert last night. Megan got 2 awards. We were so proud of her! Here are some pictures of the night.

That's Megan with the microphone in her hand!

Fabric Baskets

2008-05-13T21:51:00.004-05:00

How cute are these little bags/baskets! I found a tutorial and whipped one up in no time. I've got big plans for these babies! Let me know what you think. I'm thinking personal trash containers for those little scraps of paper that always hang around your scrap area! Right!

Happy Birthday, Judy!

2008-05-13T12:17:00.004-05:00

Today's my sister's birthday... join me in wishing her a Happy Birthday. If you'd like, send her an email... her address is grannyj4@mchsi.com. That would be so cool if she got a bunch of birthday wishes from people she doesn't even know! And she'll wonder where you all came from!

We are going to Megan's 8th grade concert tonight. That should be fun.

Other than that, I am going to work on trying to make this later on. I'll post it after (and if) I get it done. Isn't is just the cutest little book. It's out of Boom-Di-Ada. I really like that, but I may try something different, too. I feel a workshop coming on!

Let me know what you think!

Shrinky Dinks

2008-05-12T19:42:00.006-05:00

I remember Shrinky Dinks, but I don't really remember playing with them. Maybe my kids did, but I really only remember seeing them on commercials.

I had read about doing this, so I went on a search and finally found the blank sheets at Hobby Lobby. I had read that you could use our stamps and stamp with the archival black ink, color with colored pencils and voila! You have an adorable charm! Here is one I made from our My Acrylix Rustic Flower Set (that's a 3" x 3" block). So cute!

It really shrank!

Knot Tying Tutorial

2008-05-11T21:48:00.005-05:00

I found this on another site, but wanted to share it with all of my "knot-tying challenged" friends. You've got to see this!

Shadowing Welded Objects on the Cricut with the Design Studio

2008-05-11T20:43:00.006-05:00

Some of you have already seen this video of mine, but I wanted to put it here for safe keeping. And if you haven't, this is a video that will help you figure out how to shadow those welded objects. It's a little tricky, but I hope this helps you out!

(Got it done! Guess I just had to sleep on it! Enjoy!)

If you have problems with this link, you can go to this website on youtube and watch it there. Thanks for your patience!

http://youtube.com/watch?v=739f1wQHGeM

I'm working on some new ones. All of you Cricut users, check out my survey question over on the right side of the screen. I am trying to determine where to start and would like your input!

Happy Mother's Day

2008-05-11T10:51:00.004-05:00

To all who are Mother's! We had quite an exciting Mother's Day Eve here. Dodging tornadoes is not my idea of fun. But, we were way more fortunate that our friends west of here in Joplin. Apparently there is some devastating damage down there. A new scrapbooking friend, Shannon with KISS Crop n Shop sent me an email this morning. She has had some customer's who have lost everything. She got a call from her parents right after the storm hit and they were terrified. No injuries, but lots of damage. She said the reported fatalities in her county (Newton) is now up to 11. Unbelievable.
Judy and I went to Sarah and Dale's with all 3 dogs. We didn't have anything to speak of... just some rain and thunder and lightening. But, after the storm passed, we got a call from Gerry and Lisa telling us to go outside and look in the sky. We kept seeing "stuff" falling from the sky. Megan and Ben went out in the yard in the rain. They kept finding things and were bringing them in the house. Pieces of carpet, roofing, broken zip ties... and then, they started finding pieces of a bible and a cookbook. Who's bible? Who's cookbook? Who's carpet? Who's roof? Wow. It was a little unnerving to say the least.
Today is sunny and beautiful. A little cool, but beautiful. I will be praying for those who are not having such a great day and are just trying to dig out from under the rubble and find their memories.

April Workshop Pages

2008-05-11T08:29:00.005-05:00

Well, that didn't take long, did it? I have been working on several projects, as I said before. I have put together one of the 2-page layouts for June Workshops and have the second one almost done. I was going to go ahead and post the one I have done, however, I thought I'd step back a little bit and go ahead and post the layouts we did in April. (It looks like we won't be able to meet in May... just way too busy!)

So, here are the two layouts from April May. The first one is Easter and was done using Sweet Pea (Baby Pink, Breeze, Key Lime and Lilac Mist) along with the January Stamp of the Month, Eastertime. (I apologize that the pictures are light. It is hard to photograph these pastel colors.)

I stamped the Lilac Mist Cardstock pieces with the smallest flower of the set and I used the larger flower stamped on white and cut out for embellishments. I also used Blush Grograin ribbon.

And this is Summer Fun, using Boom Di Ada Creative Basics (Autumn Terracotta, Barn Red, Hollyhock and Olive). The flowers are stamped from Cottage Floral stamp set. "SUMMER" is from Rustic Alphabets and "fun" is from Giggles Lowercase.

Summer was stamped in Hollyhock and cut out, you could use your Cricut! I used White Bigger Brads to attach the Ricrak (which came in the Creative Basics kit). I stamped the large flower twice... once in Buttercup and once in Hollyhock (with a Buttercup stamped center). I placed them on top of each other and pop-dotted it for dimension.

We also did a couple of cards as a bonus!

Friendship Card
This card was full of techniques. The flowers are spritzed with water to soften the paper. Then, the tips of the petals are pinched together, which after drying, hardens and forms a really cute dimensional element. The background of the card is stamped with the Spot On Background stamp and gives it a great effect.

4 You Card
This card was super easy and fast. The inside is perfect for a gift card or cash!

Seems to be the thing to do!

2008-05-11T08:08:00.001-05:00

Well, here goes! I keep hearing about blogging this and blogging that. I was just sitting here this morning trying to figure out which project I was going to work on today... which one I was going to finish (heaven knows I have many started!), which ones need to get started and which ones could wait for a few days/weeks. And then, I remembered this one!

I opened up this blogging spot about a week ago and just never got back to it. Figures! That is just so me! Starting something and not finishing it. So, I am going to give this a shot. At least, Iwill get it started!

Feel free to leave comments, view my projects and just keep in touch. I can't promise I'll update it daily, but I will get back to it, eventually!