My Life In Real Time

February Stamp of the Month Blog Hop!

2012-01-31T20:23:00.013-07:00

Hi all,

Welcome to the February Stamp of the Month Blog Hop, featuring "Thoughtful Tidings."

Tomorrow is the big day when you too can order this first of 6 new Stamp of the Month's as the new Close to my Heart Spring/Summer Idea Book goes LIVE!

There are so many new and very fun papers, stamp sets and embellishments, but for today, we are going to show you the first SOTM from the new catalog...

This is a round robin hop, so if you have come from Nancy's Blog, you are on the right track, check out my card and candy holder and then head on over to the next blog listed below...

I created a thank you card for the leader of my daughters dance troup. She is a demonstrator for a dance group for kids and young adults with Down's Syndrome and Autism. This leader does so much for these kids, I wanted a special card to include with her gift.

The stamped image is from the SOTM and the ribbon is our Cranberry grosgrain. The large "mum" flower is created from several of our paper flowers. (Easy once you use the tutorials found on the bulletin boards.)

Next is a tiny french fry box, cut with the AP Cricut Cartridge, the perfect size to hold a Hershey's minature. Wrapped up with some twill ribbon stamped with the star from this month's SOTM. It is a perfect little something. The picture right after will show you how tiny the box is....

That's it for me, but make sure you hop on over to Judy Burger's Blog to see what she has created this month!

Goals

2012-01-02T20:18:00.011-07:00

OK, I promised to return to day and give you my goals for the new year....

I'm calling them goals instead of resolutions since I haven't had much luck with those : )

So without further ado...here they are, in no particular order!!!

1. Move More and Eat Well...
(coined by Cathy Zielske)

I know how to do this I just have chosen not to....This year

it is becoming more of a necessity than a choice. My sugar

numbers are up as well as my weight and I just don't feel

as good as I used to. I know I'm older, but I know with a little

work, I could feel a whole lot better.

2. My Crafts need to pay for my Supplies...

This shouldn't be too hard, I just need to keep track of things

better. When I sell something, it needs to go into the account I

buy my supplies from. I am nickel and dimeing our family

account to death.

3. Support my CTMH Downline better...

I have done a horrible job with this in the past. I think since I

learned the ropes pretty much on my own, that I think everyone

likes to do it that way....This is not necessarily so, I need to

keep in touch and have routine meetings and crafting sessions

with my girls. Should help all of us with our business goals.

4. Remember my family and friends with Occasion Cards on time...

I love all my family members and friends so much, but they

would never know if by the way I remember

(or don't remember) the special events in their lives. This

year, my event calendar will get a workout and those cards

will make it on time.

5. Project Life...

I am starting Project Life this year. I have planned to do

it in the past, but just never got around to it. My title page

is almost ready, (I need some family input) and I will try

and post here often. This will also help in the "keeping in

touch with family" goal mentioned above.

6. My Mayo job...

Going way out on a limb here since this has been a goal

of mine for several year. I will get the Rolodex in working

order. I will get the pictures taken, the images gathered

and sorted and assembled in a usable product for all of us,

but mostly for my students. Also, I will submit an article

or two for publication. I have some abstracts started and I

will keep on plugging away until I get published.

7. My "Real" job....

Motherhood is what I consider my "real" job. It is the most

important thing I do and if I mess it up, then I have done

my kids a disservice. While I know that not all the

"parent-child" issues we have in our house are not my

problem alone, I think I have not appoached problems

with a calm, let's fix it demeanor, but a reactive demeanor

which just escalates the problem. I will work on that and

if I can't do it myself, I will seek out professional help.

8. Date night with my wonderful Hubby....

Even if it is just the two of us sitting down together

sans kids, or heading to our room or the hot tub to

chat, we will spend time alone together at least once

a week. It is hard to find this time some weeks, but

it will be more of a priority this year. Also, I intend

to make our home a welcoming, clean, happy place for

us to "live."

9. Church and Faith...

It is time to get a handle on what I am putting into my

relationship with my God. I am realizing that it has

been pretty much a one way street, I need to step it up,

I need to stick my neck out once in awhile, I need to

show others what my God has taught me and I need to

dig deep before I make decisions, really look for his

guidance, not use others input to make the hard decisions.

I need to show God how much he means to me and how

much his sacrifice is appreciated and revered.

10. Simplify and Live within our means.....

While I have said I would simplify before, it really

needs to be in accordance with our bank account

and our long term goals.

Nuff said!!!

Happy New Year!!!

2012-01-01T23:20:00.003-07:00

I'm back (again), but not apologizing....I have had the best time ever with the family this year. No real big plans, just quality time spent together and making plans for next year.

Christmas we spent the day being really lazy, but got to talk to both sides of the family and play with new toys, Ian's 3DS and plan a shopping trip, to spend Leah's Christmas money, and sit in the hot tub, and by the fire and play our new favorite family game, Apples to Apples...

We cooked a prime rib on Christmas and a ham today, both were awesome and then I forced everyone to eat black eyed peas to assure us of a "lucky" new year.

Reflecting as we watched fireworks last night, we couldn't help but be a little saddened to realize that we spent last New Years Eve and Day planning to say goodbye to Bryan's dad Bill. In fact we couldn't even remember what we did last New Years Eve. (I don't think we really cared much) Then this year we lost Kathy and Bryan's mom was diagnosed with cancer....it just was a long tough year. We know with God's grace and his goodness that this year will be better.

I am starting Project Life this year and hope to share here a glimpse of how truly blessed we are and how much we have to be grateful for....

Hope to be back tomorrow with my Project Life Title Page complete with a "snapshot" of our lives right now, this minute...
Also, some goals for 2012, not resolutions....Goals!

Till then, savor every minute and make every one count,
this ride is gonna be fun!!!

TD

MIA

2011-11-12T16:26:00.002-07:00

Hi all, sorry about the long time missing...I opted out for the last two blog hops since I shared my SOTM autoship with Cathy and she got those months : ( I did manage to get them both, but after the due date for the hops...

Anyhoo, I'm back now and hoping to do a little better job in keeping up....(I know you have heard that before!) I am on board for the December hop and a special hop to celebrate our newest campaign...."Rock the Block" coming in mid December. It is an awesome new product the "My Creations Puzzle Block set" and a E size stamp all for only $15. with a $25 dollar purchase of anything from the Fall/Winter Idea Book. It provides a $30 dollar savings just with that, but add a little more to get the SOTM for $5 and you could save even more! It's a great deal and I will be sure to post some sneak peaks of the deal as soon as they start showing up on the consultant web sites...

It is a so fun being a part of this company!!!

Check back soon for more updates and big news about my virtual sale site going LIVE!

September "Stamp of the Month" Blog Hop: Limited Edition

2011-08-31T17:49:00.010-07:00

Welcome back to "My-Life-In-Real-Time"....

Join me and 60 or so of my closest friends as we show you some creative and fun way to use the awesome September Stamp of the Month, Limited Edition, to amp up your creativity now that the kids are back in school!

If you have come to my little corner of the blogosphere from Doreen's Blog, you are on the right track...just check out my items for this month and then click on the link at the end of this post to continue on the hop....Have fun!

For my project this time I created my annual calendar update using this fun set. Each year, I transition to a new calendar/planner as the new school year starts.

To create the front cover, I used Colonial White cs to mat some Typeset Designer cs, then I went to town matting and double matting the images from "Limited Edition." I also added a stamped canvas button badge and one of our new Complements canvas accessories. I distressed most of the pieces with our distressing tool and also with some chalk to make it look more antique, (although within several months it always looks a little antique anyway!)

Remember this layout from a few years back? Check out the back which I stamped with 3 of the stamps from "Limited Edition" in a little cluster to personalize my original creation. I know these will eventually make their way into my kids scrapbooks and I want them to know who did the journaling.

Ok, that's all for me this time...Head on over to Tamytha's Blog to check out what she has created this month!

See you soon, and happy autumn to you all ....

Terrie

Bonus Blog Hop!!! Pair a Phrase

2011-08-14T16:40:00.014-07:00

Welcome back again and it's bonus time!!! Yep, to celebrate "National Stamping Month," Close to my Heart is offering a first....a set of 2 D size stamp sets called "Pair a Phrase" that has virtually every image and sentiment to complete any type of card you could ever need, really, it is that good!!!

If you have come to my blog from LeAnne's Blog, you are on the right track, just check out my card set I created and then click on the link at the bottom of my post and "hop" on over to the next blog to complete a big creative circle!

Here is what I created this month:

This cute set of 3 by 3 cards was so easy...I cut the bases out of White Daisy cs, layered a coordinating color cs, stamped the images and sentiments inside with archival black ink and then used my chalks with a pointy Q-tip to color in the images. Then I stamped the sentiment inside and another coordinating image and colored it in. I use our 3 by 3 envelope flats and stamped the matching image on the outside and also colored those in. Here are pics of the individual cards and their insides.

After they were all done, I placed them in a clear top tin and tied them up all pretty with some tulle ribbon. They will make such a cute gift for the upcoming holidays!

Well, that is my contribution this time....I can see hundreds of ideas bouncing around in my head, but if you want to see some more great idea for this awesome stamp set, head on over to Deanne's Blog and see what she came up with.

The details on this great promotion starting tomorrow include this great "double D" stamp set free with your $75 purchase and if you include the so cute SOTM "Wicked" for $5, you will also receive a free mini alphabet set in your order.....Lots of free stuff and so many new products and papers to choose from, you will be in paper heaven! Click here to order your "Pair a Phrase" set today, or give me a call to come over and see the new product first hand and get your hands on a new Idea Book and Catalog!

Let's get Wicked!!! CTMH August SOTM Blog Hop

2011-07-31T17:45:00.008-07:00

I'm so excited to be posting my very first project with the newly released SOTM sets from the new Fall/Winter Idea Book!! I'm so looking forward to see what everyone has posted both with this stamp set and with new product....Let's get started!

If you have come to my blog from Krista's Blog, you are on the right track. Just check out my card and gifty item and then you will find the link to the next creator's blog at the end of my post.

First I created a 8 X 3 1/2 Halloween card with the August SOTM "Wicked." Loved many of the stamps and sentiments in this one, but was drawn to the cute little black cat. I carefully cut out said cat and then proceded to break out my new B & T paper in the "Mischief" paper pack and cut out swatches which I staggered on my pear CS base. Using the Wicked Halloween sentiment I triple matted it and placed it on the card. I popped up my little kitty and used some black satin ribbon for a little shine and then took some Halloweeen cobwebs and strategically placed it on the card to add dimension and mystery. I was so pleased with how it turned out and looks like I will be making more as my friend who was scrappin' with me offered to buy it after I posted!

For my gifty item, I used the old stand-by covered chocolate bar with some retired B & T and then used the "Hats off to You" sentiment and cut out a cute little mortar board so I could make gifts for my husband and his classmates who decended on my house Saturday night to celebrate finishing their Master's degrees in Education!!! I'm so proud of him and who doesn't like chocolate, right?

A little detail shot...

Ok, that's it for me, but now it is time to head on over to Wendy's Blog and see what crafting awesomeness she has to share!

See you soon.......Terrie

It's almost here!!!

2011-07-29T13:02:00.004-07:00

Get ready for the newest of the new....Join me as I participate in the first Close to my Heart SOTM Blog Hop from the new Fall/Winter Idea Book. This fantastic book was revealed at our recent convention in Disneyland and with new products aplenty, you are sure to find something fun to spark your creativity! It goes live on August 1st, 2012!!!

Our Blog Hop also goes live on August 1st, so make sure you come back here to start "hopping" and get that wish list started!!

Here is a little sneak peak of the August Stamp of the Month Set to get those "Wicked" ideas flowing!!

Convention and California Vacation Recap!!

2011-07-28T21:31:00.023-07:00

I sooo enjoyed convention! My friend and downline Cathy got to attend for the first time and we had so much fun, especially since we were stationed at the fabulous Disneyland Hotel. We got to play at Disney for a couple of days and then ooh and ahh over all the exciting announcements that convention brings...

Here are some highlights of Convention and Disneyland....

What a fun surprise to push a button on the night stand and hear the song "A Dream Is A Wish Your Heart Makes" while the hand carved wooden headboard lights up with fireworks above the castle. We knew we were in for a fun filled week!

Off to Disney and Monsters Inc.

Here is a sample of all the different sizes our new cricut cartridge can produce of this 3-D flower. Anywhere from 1/4 inch up to 11 3/4 inch of 700 different images!!! Unbelievable versatility!

Cathy and I "on stage" at the end of convention.

On Sunday, Bryan and the kids came out to join me and we headed to Carlsbad to experience Legoland again and escape the hot weather and head to the beach!

Here are a few pictures of our trip....

Leah and Ian with Hagrid...

The kids at the new Sea Life Aquarium...

And at the new Legoland Water Park....

We bought a boogie board for the kids to try....They absolutely loved it!!!

We found a restaurant in Carlsbad called Tip Top Meats which was basically a huge European Meat Market complete with whole suckling pigs and every kind of meat and meat delicacy you could think of. We ended up eating there twice and here was Bryan's Jagerschnitzel that he ordered the second night there.....We would go back there in a heartbeat and recommend it highly!!

CTMH July SOTM Blog Hop- American Celebration

2011-06-30T16:37:00.005-07:00

Happy July and welcome to this month's installment of the Close to my Heart Blog Hop!

I missed you all last month and am happy to be back! What a great sampling of artwork for last months SOTM "Jubilation." I'm sure this month will provide many creative "sparks" for all of us!

If you came from Pamela's Blog, you are on the right track.... just check out my card for this month and then click on the link at the bottom of my post to stay "on the hop."

Our stamp set for this month is a patriotic set of 12 stamps called "American Celebration." Available July 1st thru 31st, this set is sure to give you plenty of options for your 4th of July Celebration pages, cards or your military pages.

My card is a standard size card with B & T paper from the "Fanfare" level 2, My Reflections Kit. I embossed on black CS in "Cranberry", and gold using two images of fireworks from this month's stamp set. I cut out the smaller of the two images and popped it up in the center of the first. I then triple matted the images in "Sunny Yellow", "Pacifica", and "Cranberry" to make it pop. I stamped and cut out the celebrate banner and stamped the firecrackers in cranberry and pacifica and cut out a white one as well drawing inthe markings. Next I cut small pieces of natural hemp and frayed the ends to look like fuses. Lastly I tied the three "firecrackers" with hemp and popped them up for dimension....here is a close up:

Thanks for stopping by and now please head on over to Jill's Blog to see what she has created for you!

See you next month when we will have a brand new set of SOTM's for you along with a brand new Idea Book and Catalog.....For all my fellow consultant sisters.....look for me as I will have a button on saying I am a member of the "Blog Hop Team", hope to see you all there and meet you in person!!!

May CTMH Stamp of the Month Blog Hop "Chairs to You"

2011-04-30T06:00:00.003-07:00

Welcome to this month's Blog Hop...

Get ready to be blown away by over 60 awesome creations by members of the Close to my Heart consultant team. These ladies never cease to amaze me with their talent.

If you have come from Jen's Blog, you are on the right track...check out my card and then click on the link at the bottom of this post to move right on along....Here we go!

This months stamp features one of the hottest trends around...Chairs! Big fluffy chairs, ladder back chairs, arm chairs and just about any other kind of chair you can think of, this stamp set has them all.

I chose to use just one of the stamps and I used it multiple times and then colored one differently so I could use the "one of a kind friend" sentiment stamp to make a quick and easy but adorable card that could be ready at the drop of a hat should you need a card for that very special friend.

My card is pretty self expanatory, I used cocoa, cranberry and chocholate ink, colonial white cardstock, a kraft border and a bitty sparkle to bling out the tiny flower included in the set.

Now head on over to Shirley's Blog to check out what she has created for you this month.

Should you want to give this Stamp Set a try, it is available May 1-31 so click here to check out how you can get it for a discounted price or even FREE!

If you have ever toyed with the idea of running your own home based business, May is also the time to try that out with no risk! This month Close to my Heart if offering the New Consultant Kit at the unheard of price of $64.50....that's right, everything you need to get started selling one of the most sought after Scrapbooking and Stamping product lines for only $64.50! Click here to find out more or call me to schedule some one on one time to discuss joining my team. I'd love to show you how!

Till next time....

Terrie

March SOTM Blog Hop: Sensational Season

2011-02-28T18:08:00.014-07:00

Try as I might, I just can't seem to get another blog post in during the month : ) It's not as if I'm not creating, just not getting them on the blog very quick...

Welcome to the March Close to my Heart Stamp of the Month Blog Hop featuring a "Sensational" set of 10 adorable stamps with a cute Mama and Baby bunny to get you in the mood for spring!

If you have come here from Melissa's Blog you are on the right track. Just check out what I've created this month and then click on the next blog at the end of this post.

I love, love, love the Beatrix Potter feel of these stamps and they are oh so appropriate for new baby and new mama cards, so that is what I have created!

For this first "Congratulations Mama" card, I used the mama bunny stamp and colored it in with chalks and fussy cut the image out and popped it up on foam tape. I tied some colonial white organdy ribbon at the bottom and used the sentiment from the "Love you Forever" stamp set. All of this is on the Pear side of the Wings B & T plaid paper. Super simple, but cute card.

Next I wanted to create a onsie card to mount baby bunny on. I used Crystal Blue paper for my onsie and used the "Connections" stamp set to "stitch" the arm, leg and neck holes. I faux stitched the Buttercup yellow circle, distressed it and mounted on foam tape the cute little boy bunny. Our pearl accents finish off as snaps nicely.

Now it's time to head on over to Vickies Blog and check out what she has created this month. I promise I will try hard to get a post up this month in between blog hops!

Till next time,

Terrie

February Stamp of the Month Time!! "Friendship"

2011-01-31T17:00:00.003-07:00

Hello Friends...

Welcome to the February, Close to my Heart, Stamp of the Month Blog Hop!

If you have come here from Cindy's Blog, you are on the right track. Just page down, check out my creations and then at the end of my post you will find out which blog to head to next.

I've missed you these last two months while I took a much needed break from the blog-o-sphere, but I'm back and excited as ever to share my take on this month's stamp set.

Featured this month is a set of 8 stamps celebrating friendship. I created two cards that I tried to "step out of the box" on and hope you enjoy them.

For this card, I used a B & T paper from the "Wings" Level 2 kit and the largest stamp from the "Friendship" set to stamp on some off white cotton fabric in "Vinyard Berry." Over that I stamped a sentiment in black and then I frayed the edges. I used twill ribbon with Vinyard Berry waxy flax to do the bows on the twill.

For my next card, I used another stamp from the "Friendship" set and masked off the top of the design to make a sort of "planter" for my hearts to sit in. I used B & T paper from the "Sweetheart" level 2 paper pack and "Cotton Candy" card stock along with "Cotton Candy" and "Pear" inks to stamp the pots and the hearts which are popped up with pop dots. White organdy ribbon finishes off this 6 X 6 card nicely.

Well, that's it for me this month, but make sure you head over to Haley's blog to check out her cute project this month.

If you enjoy all the fun projects and new paper's during this hop, make sure you head on over to my website and shop to your hearts content, 24/7. The Spring/Summer Idea Book and Catalog goes live Feb. 1st!!!

See you next month when some cute little bunnies will appear on the hop!

Thanks for stopping by....

Terrie

New Product Blog Hop!

2011-01-30T21:53:00.010-07:00

Hello friends and welcome to the Spring/Summer 2011 New Product Blog Hop!

We're doing something a little different this time, a linky party hop, so either click on any of the thumbnails at the end of my post, or go to the host blog here and start at Erin's site and hop to all the great blogs displaying new product and tons of new ideas to use when the new catalog goes live on February 1st!

Here we go...

I'm loving the new "Lucky" level 2 My Reflections Paper Pack!! It is playful and very bright and usable for those little boy pages. I used the Bingo themed B&T paper and Outdoor Denium, Desert Sand and Sunset cardstock, some of the Level 2 assortment chipboard pieces and I quickly had a super cute page to add to my son's scrapbook!

Next, I switched gears completely and made a card from the Sweetheart Workshop on the Go pattern, taking a little creative license to make it my own. I didn't have any liquid applique to make the scalloped border for this card, so I used a corner rounder to make my own. I used the plaid/flower B&T from the level 2 paper pack and stamped the butterfly from the WOTG stamp set, cut it out and folded up the wings. I also used a piece from the Level 2 assortment acrylic frame to fashion my butterfly body. I stamped the antenna and hand drew the "motion." A few more acrylic pieces and I was done and so happy how this card turned out.

Hope you liked my projects this time and if you just HAVE to have anything you see in the hop, please stop by my website anytime, 24/7 and order your new product today!!!

See you next time....

Terrie

And Away I Go!!!

2011-01-27T22:03:00.006-07:00

Where you ask? I'm off to Prescott to a scrapbooking retreat that I have been priveledged to go to for 5 years now. I love it....my friend and CM consultant Sherri Troxell does such a great job hosting each year that I wouldn't think of missing it.

Here is a picture from one fun year that is snowed the first night we got there....

The first year we went, it was just Jen and I and then Lisa joined us and this year Lori will join in on the fun. Unfortunately, Jen is sick and will have to bow out at the last minute : (
We will miss her lots, but are hoping she if feeling better soon....

More pics upon my return, hopefully of all the creations I complete while I am there!!

Thanks for sticking with me....our Christmas vacation became extended when we lost Bryan's Dad, Bill on Dec. 30th. While we miss him terribly, we feel blessed that we were there to visit with him, care for him and help out his sister who has been a rock throughout his illness. He was in so much pain that we know he is in a better place we just find his absence has been much harder to deal with than we ever thought it would be. We miss you Bill and think about you all the time...

Thanks for stopping by and check back next week for the Stamp of the Month Blog Hop and more artwork. Also, an online "Yard Sale" is in the works, so be on the look out for some awesome deals on my HUGE stash.

Long time, no see?

2010-12-18T21:52:00.003-07:00

Man does time get away from me!!

Christmas is coming and I'm feeling the crunch....after the new year I will post some blog candy as a reward for all of you that hang with me through thick and mostly thin!!! (blog posts that is)

I will also be starting up Terrie's List, a "Craig's List" type of blog site for all sorts of things to sell, trade and give away in the papercrafting genre'. It should be a fun way to "share" the over abundance we all have hanging around our houses.

My word for next year is SIMPLIFY. This will include every little corner of my life. I hope to have at least one post a week on my progress.

Also plan on having at least one post a week on a paper crafting project. Some original, some lifted from my talented CTMH friends and friends I have accumulated out in the blogosphere.

Please know that I wish all my friends and family the most joyous, peaceful holiday and many, many blessings in the new year..........

Love you all,
Terrie

November Stamp of the Month Bloghop "A Little Thanks"

2010-10-31T17:45:00.003-07:00

Welcome back to my little corner of the blogosphere and the November installment of the Close to my Heart Stamp of the Month Bloghop. This month we feature a VERY versatile stamp set "A Little Thanks" featuring many, many ways to express your thanks and gratitude. We all need ways to say thanks and this stamp set is sure to be a new favorite!

If you have come to my blog from Michelle Nist's Blog, you are on the right track. Keep on reading for my contribution this month and then click on the link at the end to go on to the next site.

I chose to start my Thanksgiving prep early by creating some place cards and special treats for each of my family members to tell them how very much I love and appreciate them.

I used Sunset, Pear, Barn Red and Smoothie inks on the "Give Thanks" stamp in this months set. I also used the "I am so Thankful for you" stamp for my M & M tubes.

I also created two cards, one standard size and one gift enclosure with the "Magnifique" paper pack. I used the "Gratitude" stamp from the Stamp of the Month and the inside contains I think my favorite saying of all the stamps.....

Time to head on over to Pamela O'Connors Blog and see what she has created for us this month. We have a lot of traveling to do this month and December, so I will catch you next year back here on the Hop.... Have fun!

October SOTM Blog Hop, "Sharing the Magic"

2010-09-30T16:27:00.015-07:00

Welcome to the holiday season! Yep, that's right, it is time to showcase Close to my Hearts October Stamp of the Month "Sharing the Magic" with it's cute whimsical Santa, snowman, reindeer, Christmas tree and presents.

If you have come here from Kimberly Smiths Blog, you are on the right track. This is circle hop, so when you are finished here, just click on the link at the bottom of my post and keep on hopping till you eventually will see all the artwork. There are lot's of participants again this month, so grab your favorite beverage and your sketch pad and have fun...

I went traditional with my first card. I used two of the B & T papers from the "Mistletoe" paper pack and the Santa, sentiment and string of Christmas light images from the "Sharing the Magic" SOTM. Liquid applique or Santa's suit and fun flock for his beard, eyebrows and mustache. Watercolor pencils to color and I also used some soft chalks to try and add some "glimmer" from the string of lights. Oh and don't forget the new red bling!

The next card is totally different, but I love how it turned out. I used four of our new colors, Lagoon, Pear, Gypsy and Cotton Candy. I used the "Flurry" dimensional elements, clear embossing on the sentiment from "Sharing the Magic" and several sizes of gems to "pretty" it up a little. I cut out a "peek-a-boo" for the sentiment and stamped it in Lagoon on Pear.

Time to head on over to Tammy's Blog to see some more holiday "Magic"
Should you need anything to get going on your holiday crafting, make sure you give me a call or head to my website for 24/7 shopping in the comfort of PJ's and slippers! Have fun....

Some Custom Creations...

2010-09-12T20:28:00.006-07:00

Hello again and be careful not to faint since I have actually posted something before the month is up!

A friend of mine, Lucie has requested a couple of custom creations and here is what I came up with.... First, she needed a birthday card for her sister. This birthday is a BIG one so she and her sister are heading to Italy next year to celebrate. She found a card she liked in the "Originals" idea book and I took it from there. I used a downloaded picture of Italy and gold embossed one of the frames from the exclusive convention stamp set around it. This took a lot of masking as I didn't have a frame large enough to fit around the picture. I used chocolate ink to stamp flourishes around two corners of the card front and then used my craft blade to create a cut out frame to see the map that was inside. I really liked the look. Next I created two small tags to include the sentiment and attached them with gold embroidry floss.

Next she needed a wedding card. While she picked out another card from "Originals", I didn't have the ring stamp set, so I bought a ring set in the bridal section at Michaels. I used the Card Commentary stamp set stamped in Pansy Purple and then a piece of the dimesional elements borders and some dry embossing and I think a quite elegant card was finished.

Hope she likes them and I plan to be back soon with the baby cards she requested as well.

September SOTM Blog Hop- It's a "Thriller"

2010-08-31T16:10:00.012-07:00

Welcome!

Glad you could stop by the September Stamp of the Month Blog Hop.If you have found your way here from Jennifer Benner's Blog, you are on the right track. If you are starting here, just keep on traveling around the "circle" hop till you return! I'm sure you will be amazed by the over 60 CTMH consultants participating and also pick up a few "liftable" ideas as well.

This month we are featuring a "scary" halloween themed stamp...."Thriller" This stamp set is sure to please a wide variety of tastes from the traditional skulls, and dracula to the hip "Ed Hardy" style.

My project this time is a very usable holiday decoration, a candy container cute enough to set out as a decoration and on halloween, I can hand out candy directly from the jar.

The jar itself is a plastic "cheese ball" container from Costco. I covered the label with CTMH's new "Pear" cs and then used a "My Creations" cube that I ruined and then deconstructed to make 3 decorations that I strung along the sides. I like the dimension is gave the boring round jar.

The lid is also covered in "Pear" cs cut into a circle to fit and then I used the new "Captured Moments" stamp set, a small yellow circle covered in "liquid glass" and "Color Ready Alphabet" stickers inked in "Sunset." The "Scary Halloween" is masked from a "Thriller" stamp and the lid is finished with assorted tied ribbons around the edges.

A picture of each of the embellished pieces from the cube : ) this one is a black embossed image from "Thriller" on some "Hooligans" B & T paper and mounted on "Gypsy" cs. All the pieces are strung on with some black cording I had from IKEA.

The next is on the "Gypsy" fingerprint B & T from Hooligans, with images Black embossed again from "Thriller" Thanks to Tresa Black for the little paper flower instructions from last weekends "Creative University".

Again, Black embossed images from "Thriller on Pear/Gypsy cs. I tied tiny cording knots to add some dimension to the image.

Hope you enjoyed my project, it's time to head on over to Katy Donaldson's Blog for your next dose of creative juice.

If you are in need of a "Thriller" SOTM, make sure you visit my website HERE or give me a call so you can get your new Fall/Winter Catalog and come for a visit to see all the new products in person.

See you next month!

Autumn/Winter CTMH New Product Blog Hop!

2010-08-27T18:10:00.017-07:00

Well it's that most wonderful time of the year! It's time for the CTMH new product Blog Hop and it's Fall, so time for everything festive and fun! Lots of consultants have their new product on hand and have been creating like crazy to share their wonderful ideas with you, so let's get started! It's easy to do, if you came from Michelle Loncar's Blog you are on the right track, or if you just happened by, just click on the link at the bottom of each participants post and follow along. It is a circle hop, so you will eventually come back round here!

I am always so excited to see the new Christmas paper each year, so I chose to use the Level 1 "Mistletoe" kit and see what I could come up with. While I still have tons of product left, this is what I have created so far:

This first card is 6 X 6 and uses one of the Level 1 pages cut into fourths, cranberry cs, several Mistletoe My Stickease, some of our twill ribbon sewn with cranberry embroidry thread and "scrunched" up to make the cute border. The 2nd picture is in detail.

Next I took the B & T from the Mistletoe level 1 pack and mounted it on chipboard strips to give it some dimension and used our new colored sparkles and a dimensional element star inked in honey and then a My Stickease and some natural hemp finish this card off.

The next was a happy accident as I had another card almost finished and "messed" it up by having dirty fingers. I scrapped the other card that had three ornaments and then designed a new single ornament. I like the clean and simple look much better! I still managed to get some errant ink on this card, but still I think it looks pretty good!

Next I tried to really get creative and start with a blank card...(very scary) I used My Stickease borders and banners, chalked some clouds with a hand cut template and created mounds of snow with a piece of B & T from the level 1 Misletoe kit and then stamped the awesome shadow scenes from another new stamp set in the Idea Book. All stamp sets are new and I will be happy to share with anyone if they can't figure out which set it comes from : )

Another new stamp set contains this cute little tree. Stamped in New England Ivy, cut out and embellished with our new teeny tiny sparkles in RED! The Happy Holidays is from the same stamp set as the tree and the paper it is stamped out of is some border from a pre-printed portion of a level 1 Mistletoe sheet.

Last but not least are two cute and very simple tags that I created with a single image from the Mistletoe My Stickease sheet. Easy Peesy!

Thats all for now....it's time to head on over to Amy Schultz's Blog for your next creative discovery! Have fun, see you on September 1st for the CTMH Stamp of the Month Blog Hop!

August Stamp of the Month Blog Hop...

2010-07-31T17:04:00.002-07:00

It's been kind of crazy around here since I got back from convention and low and behold, it is time again for the August Stamp of the Month "Blog Hop." This month we feature a very beautiful large floral stamp set with sentiments called "Something Splendid." This stamp set is perfect for overstamping, using bleach techniques and lots of other creative stamping uses. You will surely find that out as you hop around this month to over 60 blogs bursting with ideas!

If you have come to my blog from Chris Shouses blog, you are on the right track. Check out what I have created this month and then click on the link below to continue on the hop!

I pulled out my embossing supplies this month and made a simple but elegant card.

Basically, I embossed one of the large stamp images of the flower in the center with gold powder along with the "Enjoy Life" saying. Looking kind of plain, I embossed the center in gold as well and popped it up. Still not happy, I went out and got some gold beads and used liquid glass to adhere them to the center. (trying to look like the seeds in the middle of a sunflower?) It is gorgeous in real life....this picture shows the detail a little better.

I am looking forward to showing off some of the upcoming Stamp of the Month sets that were unveiled recently at our CTMH convention in Washington, DC. Please come back next month and join us...

In the meantime if you are itching to get your own "Something Splendid" stamp set at a nice discount or even free, click here and get to shopping! Also stop back to see sneak peaks of new product available to you September 1st in the new Fall/Winter Catalog/Idea Book!

To head on over to the nex blog, go visit Sylvia Jacquot here and enjoy her project....
See you soon!

July Stamp of the Month Blog Hop!

2010-06-30T17:45:00.007-07:00

Welcome once a again to this month's CTMH Stamp of the Month Blog Hop featuring one of my favorite stamp sets of all time "Happy Forever" This cute stamp set features images of the most darling little hedge hog I have ever seen!

If you have come to my blog by way of Adeline's Blog, you are on the right track and if you just happened by my blog, you can start here and continue on as this is a "circle" hop and you will eventually see all of the creative ideas of over 70 CTMH consultants using this set.

I created two cards this month to showcase this stamp set

The first is a "onsie" card made from a tutorial found here that I have fallen in love with...I have made a whole slew of onsies as of late and decided to make one more featuring a little girl hedgie. (Notice I added a ribbon to her hair and some eyelashes) So fun. I used my nesties for the edging on the collar and the leg openings and brads for the snaps. Colors are garden green and chocolate. Sentiments for this one are computer generated.

The second card I made way back in April for my daughters Birthday and I couldn't help but ink this stamp set up! I used CTMH's "Cherry-O" paper and some tulip embelishments included in the WOTG. I paper pieced the balloons and colored the hedgie with colored pencil. Used some liquid glass and embroidry floss for the finishing touches.

That's it for me this month, but make sure to hop on over to Michelle's Blog to continue on this creative journey.

I'm heading to Washington DC in one week for my first ever CTMH Convention, so make sure you check back next week (starting Wednesday) for daily updates and to share in my excitement. I plan to post each day, so join me! If you need anything while I'm gone, you can go to my CTMH website here to order and have your product sent directly to you!

Talk to you all soon and have fun on the hop!!

CTMH June SOTM Blog Hop: Wonderful Friend...

2010-05-31T17:29:00.000-07:00

Welcome to this month's SOTM Blog Hop. I can't believe it is June already. The kids are out of school and we are trying to control the boredom : ) My son Ian did get his Father's Day card done as he stamped along with me, so we are ahead of the game there!

If you have arrived from Lori's Blog, you are on the right track. If you just happened by, this is a circle hop, so just start here and keep going, you will make it all the way around eventually. If you have any trouble with links, click here to find a complete listing for all the participants of this month's blog hop.

This month we feature a great stamp set sure to come in handy for Father's Day or any time you want to honor that special man in your life. The sentiments are great and the images provide a great heritage, masculine look.

I created a card and a two page spread this month, so let's get started...

For my card, I cheated and used one of the card patterns from the Passages WOTG but used the sentiments and two of the images from the June SOTM for the card stamped in Cocoa ink. I also used papers from the Passages, Level 2 paper pack and some of the spiral clips that come with the WOTG. I am pleased with how it turned out.

My two page layout is the Minuet pattern from page 46-47 in "Imagine" I used the Passages paper pack again with Black and White photo's of my husband and kids. I random stamped the tie image and a couple of the sentiments on CS to use as my B & T for the layout. Colors of ink used were Brown Bag, Barn Red and Cocoa. I did second generation stamp some of the "ties" as well. I covered some of our dimensional element letters in B & T and cut out and sanded for the title. I also used Cocoa grosgrain ribbon and antiqued picture hangers and hinges on the layout.

If you are in need of this awesome stamp set, click here to go to my website and if your ready to head on to the next blog, you will be heading to Carol's blog so thanks for stopping and see you next month....

Terrie

Welcome to the May Blog Hop featuring "Cherish the Moment"

2010-04-30T17:29:00.000-07:00

Welcome again to another creative and fun CTMH Stamp of the Month Blog Hop!

I hope you all had the chance to check out the blog hop a couple of days ago featuring all of our new products set to go "live" to our customers tomorrow! If you haven't checked it out yet, scroll down and you can start at my site and just keep clicking the links to see what our talented consultants showcased.

This month we feature a fun and very versatile stamp set, "Cherish the Moment." If you have arrived here from Laurie's Blog, you are on the right track, if you just happened by, just click on the link at the bottom of my post and "hop" on....

I have been dreaming of making a humongous calendar for my studio and am getting closer all the time. My husband mounted a large sheet of flashing found at Home Depot and I can attach anything with magnets that my little heart desires. While it is still a work in progress, here is what I have so far...

As you can see, I am still missing some numbers and am planning on covering the plastic ones I have with CS to make everything blend better.

Here is a close up of my creations for this time...

I created each coaster "date marker" with a different paper pack from the new Summer Idea Book. I also used a different stamp from the May SOTM set "Cherish the Moment" on each one. Also used to name a few are NEW sparkles that go with the NEW "Cherry O" paper pack. NEW star Dimensional Elements, NEW velvet ribbon that is included in the "Cherry O" Creative Basics kit and also some cut out gold embossed "keys" from an upcoming SOTM set.

You might be saying this is a lot of work for a creative coaster to be used once and then discarded? Well, I cherish the time I get to spend creating, so what I did to make the coasters re-usable for different events, I attached the stamped image with event specific info to the coaster art with velcro, so I just need to remove the dated image (to use on a scrapbook page) and then stamp myself a new one with the new information. Easy, Easy and you only create once and use again and again....I LOVE acrylix stamps!!!

Well, thanks for stopping by and I am going to send you on to our next creative genius, Laura Dame. Thanks for stopping by and be on the lookout for new pics of my ever evolving "creative calendar!"

CTMH New Product "Blog Hop"

2010-04-28T18:25:00.000-07:00

Hello again, it is time to hop around the CTMH Blogosphere and check out what our creative consultants have crafted to show you with a plethora of new product! That's right...in a few short days, you will be able to shop to your hearts content for some awesome new Close to my Heart product from the summer Idea Book/Catalog that goes live on May 1st!

So grab your beverage of choice and sit back, relax and "hop" to your heart's content! If you have come from Sheila's blog you are on the right track...

My offering this month is a cute 4 X 4 card taken loosely from the "Animal Cookies" WOTG card project. (I say loosely because as I was sitting in my thinking chair trying to figure out what I was going to do, this cute monkey was staring at me saying "pick me") anyway, I digress...here is my card:

I used Topiary CS as my base, cut out a 2 x 2 window out of the front and then layered a piece of our NEW Splendor B & T paper from the level 2 pack. I cut a 3 X 3 piece of Goldrush CS for the inside and stamped my cute little bug from our NEW stamp set B1353 "A little Buzz". I think this is the only stamp set I have ordered so far...these little bugs are so so cute! Next I stamped the same little bug on White Daisy CS and cut out the body and wings after coloring in Goldrush and Moonstruck inks. I bumped up that colored part of the image and added some NEW Stardust Glitz Glitter Glue. This is definately a must have for all you girls that like the bling!

I've been busy working on the new Summer WOTG kits and will be posting soon, but for now, head on over to Lisa's blog to see what she has created for you this time around. See you in a few days for the May Stamp of the Month Blog Hop and until then....Have fun!

April Stamp of the Month Blog Hop: "Flower Pot"

2010-03-31T17:27:00.000-07:00

Happy Spring Everyone and welcome to this month's SOTM Blog Hop! Close to my Heart has welcomed Spring in a big way with this BEAUTIFUL SOTM "Flower Pot". This great stamp set is chalk full of windowsills full of blooming beauties. If you have arrived from Caren's blog, you are on the right track. When you are done viewing my contribution to the hop, follow the link at the end of my post and head on over to the next site...Most importantly, have fun and enjoy the Hop!

I used Garden Green Cardstock for my card this time with B & T accents from our Veranda Level 2 paper pack. The images were inked with our Black Archival Ink on Colonial White CS and matted with Juniper CS. I colored in the image with our markers and used Garden Green Grosgrain ribbon with a Creme Brulee picture hanger and brad. Sparkles add a little bling to the center of the flowers and the "Hello There" Sentiment was from the "Twitterpated" WOTG. The card pattern was "Triple the Fun" from Originals, pg 56 using a 3 1/2 X 8 size instead of 5 X 7.

Here is a picture of the inside using a sentiment from "Flower Pot"......

Thanks for stopping by and if you are interested in a little Spring shopping, head over to my website here and pick up your "Flower Pot" Stamp of the Month at a discounted price with purchase...maybe even FREE!

Now it's time to head on to your next stop on the "hop", head on over to Judy's Blog and see what she has whipped up to show you this month! See you next month!!!

March Stamp of the Month Blog Hop " A Little Everything"

2010-02-28T18:15:00.000-07:00

Well it is that time again and I'm here to show you my take on this month's Stamp of the Month which is "A Little Everything" This stamp set is a great one, perfect for all your celebrations with lots of sentiments to show how much you care. If you have come to my stop on the hop from Dawn's Blog, you are on the right track, and if you have just happened by, continue on from here to complete the full circle. It's easy and lots of fun!

My first project was a gift bag crafted with the "Rough and Tumble" paper pack and "My Stickease." I used the stamp of the month sentiments and Cranberry ink along with some of our buttons and floss. I was very happy with how it turned out and then decided to take this stamp set even further by creating some custom wrapping paper for my gifts....

I used the colors from the paper and again the same sentiments plus a few different stamps from the "Connections" stamp set and some of our "Cranberry" grosgrain ribbon and "Clover Meadow" organdy ribbon. I think this makes a fun gift. Hope you like!

Now head on over to Laura's Blog to check out her creations this month.

If you want to place an order for this awesome stamp set "A Little Everything" please feel free to visit my website here. Till next month....

February Stamp of the Month Blog Hop!!

2010-01-31T18:12:00.000-07:00

Welcome to the February SOTM Blog Hop! This month we feature the adorable "Piece of Cake" stamp set which you can view and order on my website here, or call me to schedule your own gathering and earn it for free!

This is a circle hop, so if you have come here from Tammy's Blog, you are on the right track. When you are finished checking out my contribution to the hop, click on the link below to go to Dawn's blog. Have fun....

I made two cards this month. The first one is from the Originals Idea Book and is called "Tag Trio's." (also available on my website) I used one of the cupcake images and a sentiment from this month's stamp set. I also used some Blush ribbon, More to Adore paper and colored in the images with a variety of coordinating Exclusive markers. I also used a Creative Memories "maker" to create the tags. Quick and easy!

The second card also uses a larger cake image from this month's stamp set and that same sentiment. (Can you tell it is my favorite!) I used the heart B&T paper from the Animal Cookies paper pack and again used the tag punch and colored in the image with CTMH markers.

Thanks so much for stopping by and now "hop" on over to Dawn's Blog to check out her creations!

A New Year of Blog Hops starts here!!!!

2009-12-31T18:55:00.000-07:00

I'm so excited to be starting my 2nd year of Blog Hopping with the Close to my Heart "Stamp of the Month" Blog Hop group. Each month a group of talented Close to my Heart consultants showcase their work in a Blog Hop to give you a wealth of wonderful ideas to use with the featured Stamp of the Month.

This is a circle hop, so start anywhere and just use the links in each person's post to "Hop" on over to the next Blogger on the list. Start anywhere and eventually you will complete the circle. If you should get lost, check below for a list of all members of this month's hop. Feel free to click here to put in an order on my personal website to get your own Stamp of the Month stamp set. This month we feature "True friends" a stamp set perfect for cardmaking or scrapbooking.

If you have come to my Blog from Haley's blog, you are on the right track.
Here are my creations for this month....

I'm kind of stuck in a creative rut with these "Everyday Celebrations" cards, but I'm really liking them with the new "Topstitch" paper. Colors in this new paperpack are Baby Pink, Heavenly Blue, Chocolate and Vinyard Berry. The frames and the sentiments are from "True Friends"

Next another oldie but goodie...The one sheet tag book that I featured last month is done again with "Topstitch." Some baby pink organdy ribbon and the new "Resistable Dots" alterable letters and a dimensional element covered in B & T finish the front.

Now hop on over to Katy's blog to view her creation for this month's hop. Enjoy!

The Blog Hop Is Coming!!!

2009-12-29T23:17:00.000-07:00

Start off the New Year with some creativity and join us for our monthly Close to my Heart "Stamp of the Month" Blog Hop. Each month some very creative consultants from Close to my Heart share their ideas for using the Stamp of the Month in a variety of papercrafting projects. This month's "Hop" features a cute stamp set called "True Friends" perfect for your scrapbooking pages or card projects. Here is the "Hop" list for this month which goes live at 12:00am on January 1st. Join us and enjoy....

Helen Onulak http://www.hookedonstamping.com/
Jena DeVries http://www.livelovelaughscrapbook.blogspot.com/
Jessica Booth http://jessicabooth.blogspot.com/
Carla Ironside http://www.carlacreates.blogspot.com/
Lori Miller http://www.clearlyfromtheheart.blogspot.com/
Misty Jackson http://www.misstscraps.blogspot.com/
Jen Patrick http://www.roxybonds-scrappin.blogspot.com/
Susan Brooks http://www.stampingintheopen.blogspot.com/
Kathleen Androlewicz http://bowlofstamps.blogspot.com/
Dawn Ross http://www.iamahappystamper.blogspot.com/
Amy McVey http://www.clearlystamping.blogspot.com/
Antoinette Herrin http://www.godblessyourart.blogspot.com/
Jill Lucas http://scrapwench.blogspot.com/
Barbra Otten http://barbraotten.blogspot.com/
Lori Brown http://www.savingmine.blogspot.com/
Brae Montgomery http://thebrae-er.blogspot.com/
Wanda Riley http://www.creatingwithwanda.blogspot.com/
Adeline E. Brill http://adeline-brill.blogspot.com/
Kami Welter http://www.scrappin4memories.blogspot.com/
Judy Burger http://makingtimeformemories.blogspot.com/
Pamela O'Connor http://www.cherishyourmemories.blogspot.com/
Cindy Leek http://www.paperspadsandpictures.blogspot.com/
Mary Eisen http://www.mestamp2.blogspot.com/
Sylvia Jacquot http://stampinsylvia.blogspot.com/
Laura Dame http://www.thecroppersconnection.blogspot.com/
Melissa Laverty http://www.fancymelissa.blogspot.com/
Haley Dyer http://www.inkyscrapper.blogspot.com/
Terrie Dodd http://www.my-life-in-real-time.blogspot.com/
Katy Donaldson http://www.scrappinkaty.blogspot.com/
Chris Shouse http://www.houseostamps.wordpress.com/
Tammy Lea Pinchard http://mycreativeclubhouse.blogspot.com/
Krista Ritskes http://kristaritskes-simplycreating.blogspot.com/
Shannon Pelletier http://www.mycolorfulworldinvt.blogspot.com/
Deb Young http://www.scrapbookczar.blogspot.com/
Amy Edwards http://paisleysplayhouse.blogspot.com/
Sheila Bennett http://sheila-bennett.blogspot.com/
Kristie Herdener http://www.goofyscrapper.blogspot.com/
Jen Rubio http://www.jenrubio.blogspot.com/
Jody Gustafson http://www.cre8nmemories.blogspot.com/
Sarita Schraeder http://www.blessedscrapper.blogspot.com/
Laurie Levnik http://www.creationsbylaurie.blogspot.com/
Debra Van Patten http://memoriesoftheheartbydeb.blogspot.com/
Kimberly Smith http://verykimberry.blogspot.com/
Michelle Nist http://michellenist.blogspot.com/
Karen Norman http://www.gettinscrappywithit.blogspot.com/
Traci Godbee http://createwithtraci.blogspot.com/
Nancy Brown http://www.creativelyartsygallery.blogspot.com/
Maricar Harris http://www.maricarharris.blogspot.com/
Nona Davenport http://www.nonapearl.blogspot.com/
Laurie Newton http://scrapsfromthebeach.blogspot.com/
Dawn Heuft http://www.stamptildawn.blogspot.com/
Melissa Burch http://melissaburch.blogspot.com/
Kim O'Rear http://kimorear.blogspot.com/
Michelle Bourlet http://michellescreativeconnections.blogspot.com/
Angela Tutton http://www.tuttonstreasures.blogspot.com/
Jenifer Benner http://www.jensmessystudio.com/
Shirley Ross http://www.momnmescrap.blogspot.com/
Latisha Haag http://domestichomefrontcoordinator.blogspot.com/

Starting to feel the crunch!!!

2009-12-12T14:08:00.000-07:00

Can't believe it's ony 2 weeks till Christmas and I'm definately starting to feel the crunch....

We will welcome Bryan's parents to the Valley over the holidays...so I better get moving as all the teacher/coach gifts need to get done this week so I can concentrate on getting the house ready next week!!

I wanted to show you what a lot of the teacher/coaches are getting (with a gift card tucked inside)

We made these at my recent gathering at Cathy's house and they are so much fun to make and very easy too!

We also created these cute tic tac holders....

I am also prepping some "night at the movies" gifts too, so will post those when they are complete! Thanks for stopping by and hope your enjoying the season!

Welcome to the December Stamp of the Month Bloghop!

2009-11-30T19:12:00.000-07:00

Welcome once again to the CTMH Stamp of the Month BlogHop! This month we are "hopping" with the December Stamp of the Month, "Notice the Details." This awesome stamp set will be perfect for both cardmaking and all those little details on your scrapbook pages.

If you have come from Haley Dyers blog, you are on the right track so sit back and enjoy. When your done here, hop on over to the next blog at the end of my post to continue on the hop....

This month I used the SOTM to create a mini tag book that I discovered on Melissa Laverty's blog . As a bonus, she includes the tutorial to create this cute book. I am addicted to these little gems and am planning on making a few to capture random weeks of the new year. When I get a bunch completed, I hope to find a perfect box to store them in. (ah another project to plan!)

I used B & T paper from the "Sweet Home" Level 2 paper pack and various stickers from the "Sweet Home" My Stickease. For the card stock tags I used Buttercup, Indian Corn Blue and Garnet. I used Indian Corn Blue Ink and did distress most of the Buttercup card stock. Here is a picture of the inside of the book and some of the tags pulled out including my intro tag.

Now, hop on over to Wanda Riley's Blog to continue on your creative journey!

See you next month!

November Stamp of the Month: "Around the Block"

2009-10-31T23:00:00.000-07:00

Welcome to the November SOTM "Blog Hop". Can't believe it is November already and can't believe that I am still waiting till the last minute to get these projects done...I thought that was one of the reasons I got my Stamp of the Month's early!!

If you have come from Laura's blog you are on the right track. If you just happened by, you might want to got to Jena's blog and start from the beginning or at least find the full list of participants.....

Here we go:

I created this cute "Welcome to the Neighborhood" card using the November SOTM set "Around the Block." I loved stamping the house many different ways and using my colored pencils on this project. I truly love to color and consider it therapy after a stressful day. I used my chalk and a "cloud" stencil to do the sky and gold embossing on the house trim.

My son wanted to help me, so I let him color his own house and thought you might want to see his handywork. He is only 7 and I thought he did a great job!

I am also working on a scrapbook page with a really tall house, but you will have to wait a day or two to see that as we had two soccer games, some last minute costume emergencies and two parties to go to tonight! Best get on with it....

Now "hop" on over to Lori's blog to see what she has created for you!

Have fun!!!

Check out Stacy Julian's new website!

2009-10-19T23:32:00.000-07:00

Gotta share....Stacy Julian, one of my favorite creative people in the whole world has started a new blog and it is fabulous! Each week she gives away a super cool prize and this week, it is a new "gotta have" tool the I-top brad maker. This cool tool will reinvent the way you think about brads!
Go to her site here and check it out!
Working on more of Lisa's Christmas cards on Thursday, so check back for pics....

Report Card Time!

2009-10-16T22:04:00.000-07:00

Well it's report card time and I just have to brag on my kids...

Leah got straight A's and Ian got all "E's" or excellents in all his classes. We have decided that giving a little incentive for getting good grades is doing the trick, so I made some cards up to give them their rewards...

Leah's card is the scalloped money card from CTMH's "Originals" how to book. So easy to print out the template and make this card up quick

I also used Just blooms paper flowers, a bigger brad and our crocheted colonial white ribbon. A few Emporium stickease made this card come together really quick.

Ian's card is made from an old zip drive case. I inserted a gold embossed guitar and the You Rock sentiment from the "You Rock" My Acrilix stamp set on some "Key to my Heart" B & T paper and wrote a personalized note inside cut to shape and now I have a reusable gift container for any occasion I want to congratualate my kids... (I have used this in the past to give my daughter a gift card for her birthday)

Until next time...

Terrie

Welcome to the October SOTM Bloghop!!

2009-09-30T22:50:00.000-07:00

Hello again everyone,

Welcome to the October SOTM Blog Hop! This month we are featuring "Holiday Warmth" a great image and sentiment stamp set perfect for the holidays. Our monthly blog hop has gotten so large that we have split it into three separate groups to make your "hopping" much easier. If you didn't start there, please make sure you go to Jena's blog to check out the new format and the starting points for each group! If you came from Deb's blog, you are on the right track for this group and if your lost, once again, go to Jena's blog to get back on track....

My card for this month features the large Christmas tree stamp and one of the sentiments from "Holiday Warmth:

To make this card, I used the "Roundabout" pattern from the "Wishes" book, I used B&T paper from the "Animal Cookies" level 2 "My Reflections" kit, organdy ribbon from the autumn organdy ribbon collection, sunflower and clover meadow CS, green chalk, tulip brads and various sparkles and liquid glass to bling it up a bit. I also used prisma glitter on the star. I did stamp the tree twice, once as a base and the 2nd one I "fancy cut" out and popped up with pop dots.

My second project was some wish list magnets that I made from a square coaster cut in half with the cut edge rounded. I adhered some more "Animal Cookies" B&T paper and again used the presents images from the SOTM and fancy cut them out. I popped them up and used some white distressed CS and computer printing to finish it up. Magnetic stips were added to the back to adhere to the fridge where my kids can add to their list throughout the year so I always have a current, updated list when realatives and friends call for ideas.

Thanks for stopping by...Now head on over to Alanna's blog to check out some more artwork featuring this month's stamp.

Should you want to puchase the stamp, click here to find out how. There are several ways to earn this stamp at a discounted price or even for FREE!

See you next month...

Terrie

Catching Up!

2009-09-28T14:49:00.000-07:00

Hi all,

Just catching up today after a couple of really busy weeks! My Open House was so much fun with many friends here to visit and create with. I look forward to meeting with many of you to work on your holiday projects. Congrats to Lori and Peggy who won the door prizes that night!

Be sure to check back on October 1st for the monthly "Blog Hop" featuring the new Stamp of the Month. This month we will feature " Holiday Warmth" a fun stamp set with images of presents and a Christmas tree and also some cool sentiments perfect for your Christmas cards or pages. I created a card and some holiday wish list magnets, so be sure and check it out on Thursday.

You have till next Monday to get in on the Septmeber campaign the "Everyday Celebrations Card Kit". You can order this kit outright or earn if for free if you have $60. worth of stamp sets on your order. Click here to check out the details.

I also wanted to post a few pics from our trip over Labor Day to Bisbee. What a great place to spend some time...Cool, friendly and so quaint nestled on the side of the mountain. We also really enjoyed the mine tour. You should visit sometime...

The Copper Queen Motel

One of the Beautifully restored homes, most over 100 years old!

The kids by the Mining Museum with some of the equipment

The view from the coffee shop we ate at...

Getting on the train for the mine tour...

The signs at 1500 feet under! This tour was really cool...47 degrees cool!

See you on Thursday for the Blog Hop!

Terrie

National Stamping Day Event Is Coming!!!

2009-09-03T23:18:00.000-07:00

Greetings to all...

I just wanted to let you all know I will be hosting a "National Stamping Day" event on Saturday, September 12th at my studio here in Phoenix.

I will be debuting the new Close to my Heart Fall/Winter Idea Book and Catalog as well as inviting all my guests to create a couple of cute cards with the new "JINGLE" paper pack. I have lots of new product, so keep checking back as I will be showing you some of the awesome new papers and products that this new catalog has to offer!

This event will be a fun way to try out stamping if you are a newbie and I will also be offering many stamp sets and paper packs at drastically reduced prices for you seasoned veterans, so come on by if you are craving some creative time away from the hustle and bustle, relax and enjoy a fun and creative evening.

We will start at 6:00 and "play" as long as everyone is having fun!

Check back soon for more info!!

Terrie

September SOTM "Blog Hop"

2009-08-31T23:36:00.000-07:00

Welcome to my little corner of the Blogospere and welcome to the September CTMH Stamp of the Month "Blog Hop!" If you have arrived from Barb's blog, you are on the right track, if you just happened by, you might want to head to Jena's blog to start from the beginning. I tried something new this month and all the blog addresses can be found on my post from yesterday so should you get lost or want to find a specific blogger's site, just scroll down and all 65 plus addresses will be there!

This month's the "hop" stamp set features the Dandylion, that most hated but most beautiful weed! This set has plenty of the wonderful "wishing" flowers that I have very fond memories of blowing into the wind and also some great sayings to embellish your pages!

This month, I created a 12 X12 layout. I background stamped my Bamboo CS with one of the swirly sentiments and one of the smallest "seed" stamps. I double matted my journaling and my daughter's picture on Bamboo and Desert Sand CS distressing all edges with DS ink. The ribbon is from our chocolate collection and the title is stamped with our Rustic Alphabet "E" size stamp set and then cut out with the micro tip scisssors. I also cut out several of the medium "seed" stamps and also the largest "flower" image. Then I came up with something new (I think). I sewed the center of the large dandylion seed flower with embroidry floss leaving small loops on the front and taping the backs down onto the CS. Then I cut all the loops and fluffed them up to hopefully look like the individual floating "seeds." I think it turned out pretty well. I included a close up for you to see what I'm talking about.

Now it's time to head off to Judy's blog to see what she has created for you.

Make sure you check out the National Stamping Month Exclusive Card Kit that we are offering this month. Click on the picture to your right or click here to shop 24/7 on my website.
Till next month.....Adios!

September "SOTM" Blog Hop goes LIVE Sept. 1

2009-08-30T22:47:00.000-07:00

Hi again,
It is such an exciting time of the year! Another Blog Hop starts on Tuesday, September 1st with over 70 CTMH consultants showing you their handy work using the September Stamp of the Month "Treasures" This is a beautiful "D" size stamp set featuring Dandylions. I've already seen some awesome artwork showing up on the CTMH bulletin board, so make sure you join us on Tuesday. Below I have listed the participants of the Hop in order, so should you get lost or want to revisit a site or whatever, you will have a list. Here you go and have fun!

Jena DeVries
http://www.livelovelaughscrapbook.blogspot.com/
Nona Davenport
http://www.nonapearl.blogspot.com/
Katy Donaldson
http://www.scrappinkaty.blogspot.com/
Cibele Glazer
http://www.flowerfoot.blogspot.com/
Laura Dame
http://www.thecroppersconnection.blogspot.com/
Lori Leng
http://www.pinkcloudscrappers.blogspot.com/
Jamia Bankhead
http://www.papermadnessinc.blogspot.com/
Melissa Laverty
http://www.fancymelissa.blogspot.com/
Pamela OConnor
http://www.cherishyourmemories.blogspot.com/
Sheila Bennett
http://sheila-bennett.blogspot.com/
Adeline E. Brill
http://adeline-brill.blogspot.com/
Wendy Kessler
http://www.myscrapbookingblog.com/
Beth Naumann
http://www.bethscreativeblock.blogspot.com/
Barbra Otten
http://barbraotten.blogspot.com/
Terrie Dodd
http://www.my-life-in-real-time.blogspot.com/
Judy Burger
http://makingtimeformemories.blogspot.com/
Jessica Booth
http://jessicabooth.blogspot.com/
Leisa Hubley
http://www.bigredscraps.blogspot.com/
Helen Onulak
http://www.hookedonstamping.com/
Debra Van Patten
http://memoriesoftheheartbydeb.blogspot.com/
Juli Clark
http://www.thestampteacher.blogspot.com/
Sarita Schraeder
http://www.blessedscrapper.blogspot.com/
Michelle Robinson
http://www.amaizenbluelady.typepad.com/
Maricar Harris
http://www.maricarharris.blogspot.com/
Antoinette Herrin
http://www.godblessyourart.blogspot.com/
Kathleen Androlewicz
http://bowlofstamps.blogspot.com/
Cindy Leek
http://www.paperspadsandpictures.blogspot.com/
Dawn Heuft
http://www.stamptildawn.blogspot.com/
Barbara Harris
http://www.paper-creations117.blogspot.com/
Alanna Moses
http://www.damoses.blogspot.com/
Laurie Levnik
http://www.creationsbylaurie.blogspot.com/
Tanya David
http://www.scramperscorner.blogspot.com/
Karen Norman
http://www.gettinscrappywithit.blogspot.com/
Jan Moxey
http://scrapandstamp4ever.blogspot.com/
Tammy Lea Pinchard
http://mycreativeclubhouse.blogspot.com/
Paige Dolecki
http://www.paigespaperparadise.blogspot.com/
Kelly Triggs
http://www.stampinallday.blogspot.com/
Sherry Thompson
http://www.picturespatternsandpaper.blogspot.com/
Deb Young
http://www.scrapbookczar.blogspot.com/
Nancy Ball
http://www.ballisticdesign.blogspot.com/
Chris Shouse
http://www.houseostamps.wordpress.com/
Dawn Ross
http://www.iamahappystamper.blogspot.com/
Brae Montgomery
http://thebrae-er.blogspot.com/
Laurie R Newton
http://scrapsfromthebeach.blogspot.com/
Haley Dyer
http://www.inkyscrapper.blogspot.com/
Carol Taggio
http://craftycarol55.blogspot.com/
Amy McVey
http://www.clearlystamping.blogspot.com/
Carla Ironside
http://www.carlacreates.blogspot.com/
Jen Rubio
http://www.jenrubio.blogspot.com/
Kristie Horness-Herdener
http://www.goofyscrapper.blogspot.com/
Jill Lucas
http://scrapwench.blogspot.com/
Wanda Riley
http://www.creatingwithwanda.blogspot.com/
Miranda Kurz
http://www.scrampinwithmiranda.com/
Jody Gustafson
http://www.cre8nmemories.blogspot.com/
Susan Brooks
http://www.stampingintheopen.blogspot.com/
Kami Welter
http://www.scrappin4memories.blogspot.com/
Jennifer Patrick
http://www.roxybonds-scrappin.blogspot.com/
Julia Menssen
http://www.ralphandjulia.blogspot.com/
Shannon Pelletier
http://www.mycolorfulworldinvt.blogspot.com/
Linda Shewchuk
http://www.awesomememories.blogspot.com/
Brenda Harmless
http://keepsakeswithheart.blogspot.com/
Donni Alvarenga
http://www.donniscreativetherapy.blogspot.com/
Nancy Brown
http://www.creativelyartsygallery.blogspot.com/
Traci Godbee
http://createwithtraci.blogspot.com/
Pam Klassen
http://eimmap.blogspot.com/
Lori Miller
http://www.clearlyfromtheheart.blogspot.com/
Kimberly Smith
http://verykimberry.blogspot.com/
Caren Goldsein
http://www.scrappycaren.blogspot.com/
Misty Jackson
http://www.misstscraps.blogspot.com/

CTMH New Product "Sneak Peak" Blog Hop!

2009-08-27T21:32:00.000-07:00

"Welcome to the Close to my Heart New Product Sneak Peak Blog Hop! It's time to celebrate and get excited for the upcoming release of the Autumn/Winter 2009 Idea Book by giving you a Sneak Peak of some of the great products available to the public, September 1st! 30 Fabulous consultants have been busily creating some great artwork to get your creative juices flowing and show you that CTMH has done it again with the realease of it's newest Idea Book! If you have come here from Erin's blog, you are on the right path! If this is your first stop, make sure you go back and start from the beginning here. Blog hopping is easy.... just click on the link at the end of the post on each blog to move to the next one!

Here we go! I have created some cute note pads from an inexpensive pack of 5 "Dollar Tree" colored pads. I created one pad from each of the 4 new paper packs and also added some of our new embellishment and stamp sets as well....Enjoy!

First, using the new "Jingle" paper pack:

I cut out the present and the present "swoosh" from two different B&T papers. I used Juniper and Tulip card stock and some liquid glass on the ribbon of the top present and one of our new Twinkle Brads in Tulip.

Next was the "Grace" paper pack:

Here I used Cocoa, Honey and Barn Red Card Stock and a strip of the B&T papers, coloring in the mums with colored pencils. I was going to cut out some flowers from another B&T, but our autumn Just Blooms and the corduroy brad were too perfect to pass up!

Next was "Sweet Home"

I used Indian Corn Blue and Garnet card stock and layered 3 different rows of B&T paper for the bottom strip. I also used B&T to reverse stamp my initials with the Rustic alphabet stamp set and then cut them out. The "o" is the embossed button punch from Martha. I inked up one of our bulk dimensional elements in buttercup and used rub-ons for the sentiment. The button and DE are tied with embroidery floss.

Finally "Twitterpated"

I did not have the right color note pad to match this paper pack, so I opted to use a grocery list type paper pad. (also from the dollar store) I used Sweet Leaf card stock and cut the tree trunk out of one of the B&T papers. I used the branch stamp from the exclusive stamp set, "Hello There" in the Twitterpated WOTG to stamp the branches and then the leaf stamp also from that set to do the Sweet Leaf and Sorbet leaves on the tree. I used a white gel pen to put polka dots on all the leaves to mimic yet another B&T paper that I really liked. (but didn't want to hand cut all the leaves!) The ribbon is bulk sorbet, the word grow is our color ready alphabet stamped in sweet leaf and sorbet and outlined with a thin pen. The little hedgehog is from the My Stickease set.

Here is a shot of the note pad opened. I used a $1 bin item from Michaels as a jumping board and it was sooooo easy to cut and score the note holders. I did use a velcro closure to make sure they stayed shut.

Here they are all together, so cute and so easy to make!

Now "Hop" on over to Jessica's Blog to see her work! Be sure to visit all the Consultants at their Blogs to get some great crafting ideas and see the great new Paper Packs and My Acrylix Stamp Sets! Remember, the Autumn/Winter 2009 Idea Book goes LIVE on September 1st!

Don't forget to check back here on September 1st to check out the great artwork offered at our September Stamp of the Month Blog Hop! This month's Hop will feature some outstanding ideas to use with our exclusive stamp set "Treasures" Don't miss it!

Couple of Things....

2009-08-23T19:28:00.001-07:00

First, I want to alert you to a great "Blog Candy" give away celebrating Kelly's 10,000th blog hit! For those of us that work on our blogs regularly, this is quite an accomplishment to get that great of a following! Go on over to her website "LaMaison DePapier" by clicking here and check it out!

Also, I wanted to let you know that next week on Friday, August 28th we will be having our New Product "blog hop" featuring new products in the "Close to my Heart" Fall/Winter Idea Book. You will be able to see some great ideas using the new products. It all starts on Friday, so check back next week to get all the details and then join us on the "hop". You won't want to miss it!

I will also be back early in the week to give you an updated schedule for September so you can come on over to my Open House and experience some of the new product CTMH has to offer. I'm also gearing up for a HUGE sale of paper crafting items....you won't want to miss it!
Terrie

"Everyday Celebrations" Card Kit Is Here!

2009-08-18T21:13:00.000-07:00

Just a quick post to show you all the awesome new campaign from Close to my Heart!

Make sure you go to my website and check out the details, but this unbelievable value comes with 16 card bases/envelopes, enough paper to make all 16 cards, a "D" size stamp set, chocolate accesories pack, two distressing mini ink pads, a sponge and ribbon! Very cool, new paper too.... Here are some cards I made by using the guide that is included in wonderful kit. The bottom picture shows you the card that the kit will demostrate and above that are cards made with the same pattern, but with new "Jingle" paper and last catalogs "Emporium" paper. Pretty cool huh?

Welcome to the August SOTM Blog Hop!

2009-07-31T23:40:00.000-07:00

Welcome!

If you are arriving from Debra's blog, you are on the right track. If you just happened by, go back to Jena's blog and start from the beginning so you don't miss out on any of this month's great artwork.

I so missed not participating last month in the "Blog Hop", but I'm Baaaak!

I think this months stamp is a great one for everyone to add to their stash. You just can't go wrong with a Birthday set.

This first card was made for my Dad's Birthday. I had quite a lot of candles to add to the cake, but I liked the way it turned out!

CS-White Daisy for the base and Holiday Red for the strip.

Ink Colors-Holiday Red, Sunflower, Dutch Blue and Clover Meadow

Other items-2 yellow eyelets and yellow embroidry floss.

All direct to paper stamping except the "Happy" which I stamped and cut out and pop dotted and "tied" through the eyelets. I also embossed with our gold embossing powder the "cake plate"

The second card is a wedding card that was the first thing I wanted to try when I got this stamp set. I try to think outside the box so I can market the stamps to more people. I stamped the cake parts in Bamboo ink, cut them out and pop dotted them after adding some liquid glass to hopefully make it look like fondant icing. I used some of our littlest "just blooms" in pink and white and added centers of mini crystals and pearls. I pop dotted them X2 to make it look like a cake topper (I hope) and then liquid glassed the black cake plate. Using Simple Stitches, I faux stitched the sides of this top fold card and stamped the "Celebrate: It's your day sentiment inside. Hope you like....

Now "Hop" on over to Jamia's blog for some more great ideas.

Again, if you get lost or a link isn't working, go to Jena's blog to get the hop order.

See you next month,

Terrie

Blogaversary Alert!!

2009-07-29T23:14:00.001-07:00

Just a quick post tonight to alert you to an awesome Blogaversary "Blog Candy" givaway. Melissa over at "Keepsakes by Melissa" is celebrating a year of blogging fun with some awesome blog candy....go check it out here!

Don't forget to come to my blog on Saturday morning for the CTMH SOTM "Blog Hop"

Terrie

August Blog Hop Test...

2009-07-28T19:59:00.000-07:00

Hello everyone,
I'm testing out the links before and after me for the August "Blog Hop" that will debut on August 1st! You will come to my blog from Debra's Blog and will travel on to Jamia's Blog after leaving here. Should you get lost or want to start from the bottom, you will go to Jena's Blog.
If all these links are good, my post will be available and ready for you to view at 12:00am on August 1st. Make sure you come back and check it out!
Terrie

Ian's Birthday-Part 2

2009-07-24T21:53:00.000-07:00

Today we headed out to Desert Hills Lanes for Ian's 7th Birthday Party.

We had gone to Chuck E. Cheese on his actual birthday on the 14th, but he really hasn't had a party for a couple of years, so off to bowl we went. His guests included: Spencer and Brady, Paige and Parker and Trey and Logan. Leah also invited her friend Ally to tag along. Bryan is out of town (in Milwaukee), so thanks too to Lisa, Bob and Michelle for helping me out with the kids. The kids bowled amazingly well and even the littlest ones scored a strike or two. Here is a couple of pics from the event:

My goal tomorrow is to clean up my scrap table so I can actually create something! I have my post for the August SOTM "Blog Hop" ready to go, but boy did I make a big mess! I also need to clean out the hot tub and Ian is invited to a pool party, so I better get to bed so I can get everything done. Have a great weekend!
Terrie

OK, I'm ready to start posting vacation pics!

2009-07-06T19:36:00.000-07:00

Wow, it was fun and after 1,600 pictures, 5050 miles and 90 hours in the car, we are home and I have a few shots to post of our vacation....

I'll post one picture of each place we went or each event we attended..

#1 Hoover Dam

#2 CTMH Headquarters

#4 Yellowstone

#5 Little Big Horn

#6 Devil's Tower

#7 Mt. Rushmore

#8 Flat Tire

#9 Corn Palace

#10 Moorehead with the McManamons

#11 Sandy and Dan's Wedding in Ottertail MN

#12 Mall of America

#13 Pine Creek Cabins with the O'Connells

#14 Marion

#15 Water Sking with Mary and Lee Lang and the boys

#16 Des Moines with the Kirchners

#17 Oklahoma Aquarium

#18 Tulsa with Bill, Barbara, Robyn and Bob

Home again!!!!

Whew....I'm tired, I think I'll go to bed now!

Talk to you again soon....

Terrie

Whoops....another month has slipped by!

2009-06-30T00:01:00.000-07:00

Hi all! I am writing this from Tulsa, OK and we are in the very last stretch of our 3 week vacation. I had scheduled this post for the July SOTM Blog Hop, but some how I didn't get it organized with the person in charge, so I'm not on the official "hop", but I hope you will enjoy seeing a sample of a card you can create with the July Stamp of the Month! If you have just happened by, and would like to see all the great ideas for this month's stamp set, go to Jena's Blog and start from the beginning.
To make this card, I stamped 2 different images from the June SOTM "You've got Flair" and colored them in with colored pencils then cut them out. I stamped a sentiment from the "Say It In Style" stamp set on Creme Brulee CS with Tulip ink then matted the saying on Tulip CS. What you can't see very well in the picture is that I mounted all the images on textured jewel tone CS (now retired). It is a very deep purple.....just beautiful. I finished the card off with some Maya Road fibers.

Thanks for stopping by and I hope you will stop by again soon to see pics and pages from vacation...
Till then,
Terrie

It's Here....June Stamp of the Month Blog Hop!

2009-05-31T23:59:00.000-07:00

Welcome to the "Hop" If you have arrived from Melissa's Blog, you are on the right track....If you just happened by, I invite you to begin at the beginning at Jena's Blog and see all 42 creations with this month's SOTM "Tender Tags."

My 12 X 12 layout features this month's stamp set "Tender Tags" fashioned into a beautiful flower to highlight one of my favorite pictures of my little girl. It was a joy to do this page as my daughter is 12 years old now and sometimes you need to go back to the beginning to appreciate the gift that is the present. (if any of you have a 12 year old, you know what I mean!)

The base of my page is New England Ivy CS with a sheet of Colonial White CS cut down to be framed by a Tulip "Heartfelt Whimsy" felt frame. I also used the button felt accent in the center of the flower and the stem accent. I printed my picture on Colonial White Textured CS (love that look) and matted it with Pansy Purple CS. The flower petals are stamped in Pansy Purple and Petal Exclusive Ink and the Pansy petals are curled a bit around a pencil and elevated with foam tape. I cut the title with my Silhouette using the "Curlz" font. I hope you enjoy!

Now, on with the Hop.... Click over to Helen's Blog and see what she has created for you. Should you get "lost on the hop" or find links that aren't working, here is a list of all the contributors this month. Have fun and see you next month!

Jena Devries http://www.livelovelaughscrapbook.blogspot.com/

Adeline E. Brill http://adeline-brill.blogspot.com/

Deb Young http://www.scrapbookczar.blogspot.com/

Chris Green http://www.createwithchris.blogspot.com/

Jennifer Patrick http://www.roxybonds-scrappin.blogspot.com/

Chris Shouse http://www.houseostamps.wordpress.com/

Alanna Moses http://www.damoses.blogspot.com/

Haley Dyer http://www.inkyscrapper.blogspot.com/

Jen Rubio http://www.jenrubio.blogspot.com/

Kami Welter http://www.scrappin4memories.blogspot.com/

Caren Goldsein http://www.scrappycaren.blogspot.com/

Laurie R Newton http://scrapsfromthebeach.blogspot.com/

Reba Poquette http://www.thedirtyscramper.blogspot.com/

Nona Davenport http://www.nonapearl.blogspot.com/

Misty Jackson http://www.misstscraps.blogspot.com/

Julia Menssen http://www.ralphandjulia.blogspot.com/

Anne Beck http://www.anniemuses.blogspot.com/

Jamia Bankhead http://www.papermadnessinc.blogspot.com/

Dawn Ross http://www.iamahappystamper.blogspot.com/

Sherry Thompson http://www.picturespatternsandpaper.blogspot.com/

Laura Dame http://www.thecroppersconnection.blogspot.com/

Lucia Grabb http://www.luciasscrappinandstampin.blogspot.com/

Nancy Ball http://www.ballisticdesign.blogspot.com/

Shannon Laux http://www.rockinstamps.blogspot.com/

Melissa Laverty http://www.fancymelissa.blogspot.com/

Terrie Dodd http://www.my-life-in-real-time.blogspot.com/

Mindy Eggen http://www.creativevalleycreations.blogspot.com/

Helen Onulak http://www.hookedonstamping.com/

Ronnie Crowley http://www.ronniecreates.blogspot.com/

Karen Strous http://karensctmh.blogspot.com/

Jaime Benavides http://www.scrapcrazydiva.blogspot.com/

Kelly Triggs http://www.stampinallday.blogspot.com/

Lori Miller http://www.clearlyfromtheheart.blogspot.com/

Brae Montgomery http://thebrae-er.blogspot.com/

Shannon Pelletier http://www.shannonmvt.blogspot.com/

Wendy Kessler http://www.myscrapbookingblog.com/

Paige Dolecki http://www.paigespaperparadise.blogspot.com/

Pamela OConnor http://www.cherishyourmemories.blogspot.com/

Shari Odut http://stampinshari.blogspot.com/

Tammy Lea Pinchard http://www.creativeimpressions-pinchme.blogspot.com/

Dawn Heuft http://www.stamptildawn.blogspot.com/

Cibele Glazer http://www.flowerfoot.blogspot.com/

Sarita Schraeder http://www.blessedscrapper.blogspot.com

Just a quick note...

2009-05-23T21:58:00.000-07:00

Hi all,

I know, I know, it has been awhile since I last posted and of course I promised a couple of people to post some things and haven't done it yet, but I promise, I got a LOT done today, so I should get some of that posting done tomorrow!

I will be participating in the next SOTM Blog Hop, so be on the lookout for that post too on June 1st! It was so fun last month and this month there are supposed to be over 40 "hops", so there should be lots of inspiration for this Stamp of the Month.

Leah participated in her schools Talent Show last week, so here is a pic of the girls after the performance.

Also, here are my Thank you gifts I gave to the staff and my co-teacher for Religious Ed at St. Gabes. Such a nice and easy gift to show someone how much they mean to you!

That's all for tonight, but I should be back tomorrow with some more fun things...
Stay tuned!

May SOTM "Blog Hop"

2009-05-10T00:01:00.000-07:00

Welcome to our Stamp of the Month Blog Hop! We will be featuring May's SOTM, which is Be Yourself, a set of 14 stamps. If you have come here from Deb's Blog, you are on the right path! If this is your first stop, you may want to go back to Jena's Blog and start from the beginning!
***
This month we have 18 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 chose to random stamp my Colonial White card front with several stamps from the "Be Yourself" SOTM set and a small flower from the National Scrapbook Month special "Tickled Pink" I stamped these in "Petal" ink and used the eraser of a pencil to stamp the black centers. I paper pieced the "Petal" dress and "shined" up her boots with Liquid Glass. I then matted my card front on black cardstock and finished everything with some black organdy ribbon. Very simple and fun card to make. This was my first attempt at random stamping and I have to say that I will be trying it again!

Now "Hop" on over to Lucia'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 May SOTM is only available until May 31st! Contact your CTMH Consultant (or click here) to see how you can get this stamp set at a discount or even free!

Have fun and I'll see you next month!!

Mother's Day Cards....

2009-05-08T20:51:00.001-07:00

Hello again,

Thought I would post the Mother's Day Card that I made for our Mom's. I lifted them almost exactly from Lisa Stenz's design. (except changed the color) Click here to go to her Blog and check out her beautiful artwork....she is very talented!

Make sure to check back on Sunday for the first ever CTMH Stamp of the Month "Blog Hop"
It should be lot's of fun and a great way to check out the SOTM and some great artwork made with it so you can "see" before you buy!
The new Summer Catalog and Idea Book is LIVE now, so if you don't have yours yet, let me know and I will get you one. Till Sunday.....

BLOG HOP!!!

2009-04-29T21:33:00.001-07:00

Welcome to "My Life" and to the Close to my Heart Summer 2009 Idea Book Blog Hop!! Join us as we celebrate the upcoming release of the Summer 2009 Idea Book by sharing some amazing creations using new product from CTMH available May 1st! If you have arrived from Miranda's Blog, you are on the right path! If this is your first stop, you may want to go back to Erin's blog at http://www.tazzygirl2000.blogspot.com/ and start from the beginning!

It's simple to join in...just click on the link at the end of the post on each blog and it will lead you on to the next participant....Here we go!

I decided to create a CD case photo cube! I have been eyeing these cute cubes and decided to try one with the new CTMH Back Country Level 1 Stickease and Dimensional Elements In Color-Adventure on page 16 and 17 of the new catalog. I also used Outdoor Denim, Barn Red and Olive CS, some retired CTMH beads and Natural Hemp. For the water on the rafting picture, I used some B & T paper from the "Moon Doggie" Level One paper pack, bumped up one of the waves with dimensional foam tape and applied some Liquid Glass. I used the directions in the great tutorial found here and have not quite figured out how I want to finish up the bottom as I need something that won't cover my embellishments at the lower part of the cube??? It's always something : )

Anyway, without further ado....

Now, "Hop" on over to Traci's blog at www.creativetraci.blogspot.com to see her work! Be sure to visit all the consultants at their blogs to get some great ideas for the new product. Remember, the Summer 2009 Idea Book goes LIVE on May 1st!

Get on over to Jaci's Blog for some AWESOME Blog Candy!!

2009-04-11T18:04:00.000-07:00

Hey there,
Make sure you head on over to Jaci's blog to sign up for some awesome Blog Candy. 47 items....yep, that's right....47 awesome items to celebrate her 47th birthday. Click here to do so and good luck!

I have my first five!!

2009-04-01T22:55:00.001-07:00

Thanks to Rachel for posting the cute gift she sent me for being one of her "first five" on the CTMH bulletin board! Now I can say I officially have my own "first five" to prepare a "Pay it Forward" gift for! I'm so excited....I better get movin' and add that to my to do list tomorrow!
Leslie, Clerissa, Penny, Yael and Heather, I will be getting in contact with you soon to get your addresses to send you your goodies. Remember, I do get a little time to get them to you, so don't give up on me!!
Talk to you all soon,
Terrie

Another So Sketchy Sunday Challenge!

2009-03-28T17:19:00.000-07:00

Hi all,

Just under the wire before the new SSS is up, but thought I wanted to keep my streak going!!

I don't know if I'm real pleased with this one. The original by Mary Vogel at On Life And Creating is so beautiful, it would be hard to do better, but since Breast Cancer Hope is one of my card mainstays, I think this one I can use and it was pretty simple...

Here were the instructions for this week:

1. Your card front should be a single, matted layer....not lots of layers, keep it clean and simple

2. Your card should include an image on the front and a sentiment on the front

3. Your card should include only one embellishment

4. Your card should include some "white space"

Here's what I came up with:

Ian was in his first Soccer tournament today. Unfortunately they didn't make it into Day 2, but the kids had a great time and did really well. They won two of their three games, but didn't have the necessary goals scored to "rack" up the extra points needed to get into Day 2. Also, they were in the toughest bracket, so we hope next year to make it all the way!

Here are some fun pics of the team and our "Young Champion"

Paying It Forward!!

2009-03-27T20:09:00.001-07:00

Looky what I got!
Thank you so very much to Rachel from Wonderful Whimsy for these cute, creative magnets! I saw these cute flowers she created on a card on her blog and even had them bookmarked to try and create some on my own and low and behold I was lucky enough to be one of the first five to comment on her "Pay it Forward" give away, so now I have some of my very own to ooh and aww over. Thank you so much Rachel. Here is a picture of her handywork!

Now it is my turn to "Pay it Forward" Read below for the details on how you can receive a gift especially made by me as I keep the momentum going:

The 1st five get a goodie
I was fortunate enough to be one of the first five commenter's on Rachel's goodies giveaway. Now, it's my turn to pay it forward. The first five people to respond to this post will get something made by me! My choice. For you! This offer does have a few "rules of play":
1- I make no guarantees that you will like what I make --- but I hope you do!
2- What I create will be just for you --- one of a kind!
3- It'll be done sometime this year (most likely it will be in the next month or two).
4- You have no clue what it's going to be. Well, a pretty good bet it will be made of paper!
5-The catch? Oh, the catch is that you must repost this on your blog and offer the same to the first 5 people who do the same on your blog!

The first 5 people to leave a comment win a handmade card or gift (or both!) by me! Oh, and be sure to post a picture on your blog of what you win when you get it! So....who will be the first 5 people? Even if you aren't in my first five, why not start this on your blog, too? Spread more love FASTER! Ready, set.....who will the first five be??
Terrie

Getting into a Groove...

2009-03-20T20:29:00.000-07:00

Well, once a week is better than I was doing.....Thanks to Mary Vogel over on her blog "On life and Creating" for giving me the incentive to participate in her "So Sketchy Sunday."

Here is the sketch for last Sunday:

And here is my version:

I used my CTMH Fancy Cut Botanicals for the flower and vine. I also dry embossed around a smaller one to get the background on the Sorbet cardstock. I used Petal brads, CS and ink. The sentiment is from the March Word Puzzle stamp set. Pretty simple, but fun.

I'm fighting a nasty cold and I'm not winning as of yet! I signed up for a spot at our church garage sale tomorrow, but had to bow out. I did take some things out there and got in on the Lenten fish fry...YUMMMM! (You would think my appetite would leave me when I'm sick, but alas, I seek out the comfort food)

My friend Peggy is planning to come over this weekend and help me prep for a HUGE scrapbooking and crafting garage sale coming up for National Scrapbooking Day....Stay tuned for more details!

Later,

Terrie

Another "So Sketchy Sunday"

2009-03-13T22:11:00.000-07:00

Well, I'm managing to get this done a little earlier this week....
Here is the sketch for this week:

And here is my version:

I was killing two birds with one stone with this card, I am going to a baby shower for a girl at work and thought I would try and come up with something using the sketch.
I used CTMH's Sweet Pea paper, My Stickease, Sassy Strands and Rub On's. A very quick and easy card.

I am working on my calendar for April and May, so that should be hitting your mailboxes soon, be on the look out for it!
Terrie

New So Sketchy Sunday Card

2009-03-08T20:33:00.000-07:00

Hi again,

At least I am posting my "So Sketchy Sunday" Card before the next one gets posted! Sorry so slow, it is taking me longer than anticipated to get back to it after Regionals last weekend...

Here is this weeks Sketch..

And here is my version...

I used CTMH's Emporium paper pack, Chocolate and Twilight CS, Colored Pencils, Prisma Glitter, Wonderful Charms SS and Love Story Rub On's.
Hope you enjoy, now I'm off too get going on this week's sketch...Come join us here.
Till later this week...Have a good one,
Terrie

I LOVE CTMH!

2009-02-28T21:22:00.000-07:00

Edit: Thanks to Mary Vogel for helping me figure out that the image on my card below is "Lilly" from the Cat's Pajamas. Love her and need to get to their site and check out their other images...you should too!

Hi all,

Just back from the Phoenix Regional Celebration and WOW is all I can say. I love this company! We spent the last several days learning and creating with the wonderful staff and the inspirational leader of Close to My Heart, Jeanette Lynton. Here are a few things we worked on and some of the creations that we saw....

This is one of the 8 two page spreads we did using several paper packs and the WOTG format demonstrating what a versatile program it is.

This is the top of our "My Creations Memory Keeper" we did with "Emporium", so cute!

I got to meet the founder and CEO of our company, Jeanette Lynton. She is as genuine and caring as I have always heard. She also is an astute business woman who is running a totally debt free company which continues to grow and prosper.

I was very lucky to get to spend the last couple of days with some new "best friends". Thanks Erin, Ashleigh and Gina for a great weekend! I hope we can keep in touch and attend another event sometime real soon!

One last thing before I close for tonight:

I did do Mary Vogel's "So Sketchy Sunday" challenge again this week, so fun...

Here is the sketch:

And here is my version:

I have to say that I got the image from a free download that I got from someone's blog, and forgive me, I did not save the name when I downloaded it. I just loved it and have had it around for awhile just waiting for me to get around to using it with CTMH's "Daydream" paper pack. Isn't she cute?

Well, that's all for now, but I hope to be back soon to show you some more inspiration from Regional's.

Terrie

2009-02-16T20:29:00.000-07:00

Hi again!

I'm participating in a new sketch challenge, "So Sketchy Sunday's" so am posting those cards here as well as some layouts I did at a recent retreat! Enjoy

Here is the sketch I tried....my first ever! Thanks to Mary Vogel for the challenge. Here is the sketch:

Now here are my two tries at it:

What do you think?

Now here is a direct "lift" from Sheila Wilkerson. I don't lift very often, so let's just say I LOVED your original enough to recreate it.

This next one if from CTMH's "Reflections" book. It is Bottom Border-Footnotes on page 37. I used the new "Stardust" papers from the spring catalog.

I hope to be back soon with another sketch challenge....I really enjoyed it!
Terrie

Some Creating...

2009-01-19T22:34:00.000-07:00

Hi again,

No apology this time for my absence...I have actually gotten a lot done over the last few weeks, so I am proud of myself.

I had Lisa P. and Peggy L. over on Saturday to create and got a fun layout started for my 3-Day album, I will post that as soon as I have it all embellished up like I want it. I created this calendar after scraplifing the idea from the "Inspirational Tips, Techniques and Tutorials" blog. There are some great ideas on there, go check it out here.

I'm off to bed as I have to head back to work tomorrow after another long weekend.
Oh, by the way....CONGRATULATIONS to the Arizona Cardinals and we'll see you at the Super Bowl in two weeks!!

2008-12-31T19:46:00.000-07:00

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!!

Again it has been awhile since I've posted, but that is one of several resoulutions I have made for the new year:

1. Continue to try and "simplify" my life. This has helped me slow down and realize what is really important in my life...

2. Pay off our debt...we really need to start this hard process. Budgeting will start us off and getting rid of some our "wants" will help a lot...

3. Work on a huge scrapbooking project. "My life 365" Keep looking as I will be posting every so often to show off how this project will work.

4. Healthier Living.....this will have to happen to help us lose weight and avoid any health issues as we move towards "middle age" this year....YIKES!

Here are some pics of our holiday....Enjoy

Thanksgiving Dinner: We are very grateful for all we have!

Ian and I at his holiday party at school...

Happy Siblings on Christmas morning...

A little creating over the holiday...I made this for my sister-in-law Norma...

Using a dollar spot monthly planner and "blinging it up" with some "Stylin'" paper from Close to my Heart.

I will update you on my newest project tomorrow on Day 1!

Have a safe and happy New Year's Eve!

Terrie

5.2 Million!!!!

2008-11-22T21:06:00.000-07:00

Hi all,

Long time, no blog, but I have 5.2 million reasons why......

The 3-Day is over and we raised 5.2 million dollars to fight Breast Cancer!!

Yep, blisters and sore muscles and all, I'm quite proud!

Here are a couple of pics from the weekend...

Day One at Freestone Park in Gilbert at Opening Ceremonies...

Home Sweet Home at Benedict Park in Tempe G-90.....

In Old Town Scottsdale on Day 3 only 1/4 mile from the holding area....

The whole gang at the Holding Area after we crossed the finish line!

It was such an honor and so much fun to be able to do this with Kaye this time!

Daniel asked us what we talked about all those miles and we just smiled and said sometimes you don't even need to talk, it is just good to BE together....

Kaye was a rock throughout the 3-Days. She had trained much better than me and was so encouraging even when I was hurting soooo bad! She is all ready to plan her next 3-Day and although I don't know if I would walk it again, I know that my family and I will definately so our part to keep fighting for the cure!!

I wished I could have spent more time with Kaye's kids Allison and Daniel as they have grown up into such nice young people. I hope our families will be able to spend some time together again soon.

Kaye treated me to a "Hot Stone" massage on Monday after the walk and I'll tell you there isn't anything much better than those warm stones on your sore muscles! Thank you soooooo much Kaye.

I hope to be back in the next few days with some holiday creations coming out of the studio....I haven't been in there much in the last few weeks and I miss it!

All for now,

Terrie D

Oh My....Time got away from me AGAIN!!

2008-09-01T20:26:00.000-07:00

I'm so sorry...I don't know if anyone is even reading this, but if you are, I apologize cause I can't seem to keep up. I was going to have Bryan upload pics from our vacation and of course with school starting for the kids and now his students are back, I didn't have the heart to bug him about it. I'm off tomorrow, so I will try like crazy to get something put on here....

My Close to my Heart Open House is this Saturday and of course in my usual style, I decided to make some changes to the studio, so it is a MESS right now, so I have to do that too tomorrow, but I promise I will get those pics on and some new ones by the end of the week....
Wish me luck!

I have gotten some training done for the 3-Day, so that is a good thing...
3 miles on Tuesday last week a couple on Thursday and we hiked for over 2 hours yesterday, probably not too many miles, but definately some training!

Talk to you soon,
Terrie

2008-08-17T15:14:00.000-07:00

I'm trying to test out having a link. If you want to see what I am linking to click here.

MIA?

2008-07-19T20:42:00.001-07:00

Oh my, how time flies when you are driving around in a car!

Sorry for the almost month delay, but it has taken me this long to get back in the swing of things.

We had a great time on vacation....

The kid's trip from Tulsa to Iowa was highlighted by riding on this....

Then we headed on down to Galveston to get on the ship the Carnival "Ecstacy" to celbrate Bill's 70th birthday. Here is a pic the three of them, Bill, Robyne and Bryan had taken on formal night....

We had a great time and really enjoyed spending time with Bryan's family. We went on two excursions while in our ports of Progresso and Cozumel. Here are some pictures of the ruins in Dzibuzal. It was hot, but the trip was fascinating.

In Cozumel we went into town to do some geo-caching and shopping and then rushed back to change and go to snorkel with the stingrays. Here are some of our pics from that....

Because we got back 3 hours later than anticipated to Galveston, we took Robyne, Bob, Bill and two others back to the Houston Airport to catch their flights back home and then we headed back to Marion.

The kids had been having all sorts of fun with Quentin and Dylan who are the grandchildren of Jane, Mom and Dad's neighbor. They also had spent some time with Nick and Brian, my cousin Mary's kids. Leah was especially excited to get a number of hand-me-downs from Madeline....she called to tell me she had done all of her back to school clothes shopping in a whopping 3 minutes!

We enjoyed a few more days in Marion and several evenings with Joe, John and Norma. We also got to have a fun evening with Uncle Frank, Aunt Pauline, Mary, Lee, Nick, Brian and Ted. The kids all played Blongo Ball and fished in the pond. So much fun!!!

I'm going to post now, but Bryan still has to download some more pics for me and then I will update with pictures to my blog. Please be patient with me....Bryan leaves for another trip next Thursday and work is crazy busy. Talk to you hopefully tomorrow!
Terrie

Only 3 days till we head out on VACATION!

2008-06-21T23:11:00.000-07:00

The crunch is on now, only 3 days to get the laundry done, pack and get the kids ready to head to Iowa and us to head out on our cruise....Whew, it seemed like I had so much time and now I'm wondering how it snuck up on me so fast? Oh well, I've done it before, I can do it again...

How about an update from this week?

We didn't hear from Leah till Thursday afternoon, but she did really well on her first time away to Girl Scout camp. She arrived home at 6:15 on Friday evening and all of the Girl Scout troop met her and Madelyn so we could go directly to the Girl Scout/Phoenix Mercury Lock In. Both girls were dirty and tired, but we forged ahead....and we were not disappointed! The event was exciting (the Mercury won in OT) and fun (lots of events planned for the girls) Here are some pics to show you some of the action...

The girls were really excited when they got to see themselves on the "Jumbotron" Leah said it was a night of firsts...her first time going to a pro basketball game and her first time on TV! I think the cameraman zeroed in on them as they were all waving their "Rally flags" and screaming at the top of their lungs!

After the game, the Hip Hop squad performed, they had a Q & A session with one of the players, there was Pizza for everyone, they rotated to some really great sessions including games on the Suns and Mercury practice court, an hour in "The Jungle" a really cool game and climbing arcade and finally sleeping in some of the suites overlooking the court. It was a long night (ended at about 4am) but very fun.

When we got home, Bryan let me catch about 4 hours of sleep and Leah layed down for a quick "nap" and woke up 8 hours later to take a long shower to get the weeks worth of dirt off of her and finally sit down and just relax.

I hope to update you all before we leave for Tulsa on Wednesday....but if not, I plan on updating the blog while on vacation since we upload our pics along the way...Till then,

WALK ON,

WALK STRONG,

Terrie

Whew....What a Weekend!

2008-06-15T20:59:00.000-07:00

Well, we made it through recital week and everything actually went really well!

Remember I told you I was nervous about Leah getting ready for dress rehearsal by herself? Well this is how her hair and makeup turned out (without my help!) I think she did a great job!

We attended the performance on Thursday night and we only got a few pictures that turned out.

Here is one where amazingly enough, she is right in the middle of the frame and totally in focus! I thought that was kind of cool that it turned out like that...

After the performance, Ian presented his sis with a dozen roses.....I made Bryan capture the moment!

Since we didn't get real good shots at the performance, I took a few at her last perfomance last night. I was the "dressing room mom," so these are candids, but fun none the less and at least you can see her up close!

She made some really good friends this year at dance...

Here she is with two of them!

Ok, as soon as we got home, we headed to bed as we had to have Leah down in Central Phoenix to catch the bus to Girl Scout Camp at Shadow Rim Ranch. She is attending the "Hike and Bike" session with her friend from school Madelyn. She put on a good front, but I think she was a little nervous? I'm sure she will have a great time and not miss us at all, but I must admit it is just not the same without her here tonight : (

Here are some shots from the drop off....

And not to forget what a special day it is, here is a picture of Bryan wearing one of his gifts!

Actually he is wearing two, one (the shirt) that Leah made and gave to him when she was two (he wears it every year on Father's Day) and the second is the paper tie that Ian made for him in school before they got out. I think it makes him look rather sophisticated....don't you?

Hope your weekend was restful!

WALK ON,

WALK STRONG,

Terrie

Recital Week Starts at the Dodd Household!

2008-06-10T21:12:00.000-07:00

Well, it is that time of year again, and recital week kicked off with a bang today at 1:00 with our tech rehearsal for the Green cast....

I will include pictures as the week goes on, but tonight we are all packed for dress rehearsal tomorrow (which I cannot attend as I have to work) Bryan will take Leah and sell concessions in the lobby during the dress rehearsal. Leah's hair is in curlers tonight and she will do her make-up (by herself) for the first time tomorrow. I gave her a few pointers like "less is more" and "use the eye-liner pencil instead of the liquid to avoid unfixable mistakes." I hope she listens... I will have Bryan take some pictures if he remembers.

Gotta go now, but will plan on checking in tomorrow..

Terrie

Busy Saturday!

2008-06-07T20:23:00.000-07:00

Hi again, we had a very busy day today....

I went to the dance studio and did my first volunteer stint for recital week, selling tickets. Most everybody must already have theirs as business wasn't too brisk.

We have wanted to get rid of our lone Queen palm in our front yard for a long time and we decided today was the day.....

Here's a pic of Ian by our palm that was only about 6 foot tall when we moved in November of 1995...

We headed out to Moon Valley Nursery and came home with a Chilean Mesquite tree. We wanted some shade and decided with this quick growing tree we would save a lot of money to buy a small tree and then watch it grow the 6-8 feet a year instead of pay $350 to have a bigger tree planted right away.

OK, so we have a new tree...we need to get rid of the palm. Bryan digs around the root ball to loosen it up and then we call Bryan's Uncle Larry to bring over his truck and we proceed to very easily pull out the 15 foot tree.

Here is a pic of the kids by our newly planted Mesquite! We figured if we put them in the picture, we could watch the tree grow along with the kids!

Training for the three day is moving along well. I haven't been real good about getting my walks in early as I'm really enjoying sleeping in for now, but with the cruise coming up, I'm hoping some of our ports will allow Bryan and I time to get out and geocache which should offer some good mileage. I hope to post from my Mom and Dad's after the cruise so you can all see what we got to do on vacation.

Well, I'm tired and am off to bed now,

Walk On,

Walk Strong...

Terrie

I'm Baaaacccckkkk!

2008-06-03T19:21:00.000-07:00

Hi again!

Well our Girl Scout trip to Disneyland is in the books and we all made it back safe and sound and tired.

Here are some quick photo's to show you what a good time we had........

Here are the girls right before going to the "It's A Bug's Life" show...

Here is Madison with one of the local's from "Pirate's Lair" formerly know as Tom Sawyer's Island.

And last but not least, one of the most famous residents of Disneyland poses with Leah!

I'm trying to get back on track now that the kids are out of school... Ian had a tooth filled this morning under anesthesia and then we had to run to the Girl Scout store to get the badges the girls earned this year plus some fun patches to remember all of our activities.

I also wanted to include a picture of the awesome rosaries our women's group at St. Gabriels makes for the newly baptized babies. I have been part of this ministry for several years and really think these rosaries are special!

My 3-Day training went extremely well while I was at Disney...probably about 5 miles trekked each day for 3 days!

Well that's all for tonight...The Mayo School of Health Sciences will have a ceremony to award certificates tomorrow, so I will probably have some pics from that. Till then......

Walk on,

Walk strong,

Terrie

Whoops!

2008-05-24T21:13:00.000-07:00

It amazes me when I realize that I haven't updated in a few days....then I try to wonder what I have been doing that is so important that I can't spend two minutes to update this blog?? Well, here is a little run-down and what has been keeping me so busy....

We had recital pictures last Saturday....Leah is in 3 dances this year, tap, jazz and hip-hop, so it was an all day affair. I will post pictures of her during recital week. Her costumes are really cute this year!

Last Sunday, we went to my friend, Lori Wynn's twins baptism as St. Gabes. Izzy and Gabby are some of the cutest babies ever and we were honored to welcome them to our church family. Here are a couple of pics from the day.

Monday morning I attended a breakfast for volunteers at the school and then stayed to watch Ian receive his "Attitude is Everything" award. He was so proud!

I was supposed to have "Play Group" on Tuesday, but I'm glad some of the girls cancelled at the last minute as Leah had forgotten to let me know she had "honors assembly" that day. Here is her pic...

The last day of school was Thursday and a half day, so like usual, I head out to get a few last minute gifts for the bus driver, front office people etc....it never ends! Bryan came home from work early to spend some time with the kids, so we head out geo-caching again. (We found two more caches real close to home) and then on Friday, Bryan spent his first day being Mr. Mom as the kids are officially out of school...it went OK, we'll see how that goes this summer!

Today we headed up to Crown King today to look for some caches and spend some quality time with the kiddo's. Ended up cold and rainy, so for part of the time they stayed in the car and watched movies while we searched! We will probably head back up there to camp after we get back from Iowa. Here are some pics from today!

We are really enjoying the cool weather after the 111 degrees we hit last week. It hailed yesterday and was about 50 degrees, so pretty cold for us but we're not complaining!

I'll check back next week, Have a wonderful Memorial Day!

Walk on, Walk strong,

Terrie

"Friends for a Cure"

2008-05-17T18:08:00.000-07:00

Well, it's official! Kaye and I have formed a team for the 3-Day....We are now and forever to be known as the "Friends for a Cure." Kaye came up with the name and I think she did an extremely good job! We wanted to celebrate our long time friendship and this name says it all.

If you would be interested in being a "Friend for a Cure" just click on my banner on the right sidebar of this blog and it will take you right to my site! We have set a high goal of $10,000, but are sure we can do it! We live far away from each other, but hope to be able to get together at some point before the walk to take a picture of our "TEAM."

Leah had her "Strings" recital on Thursday afternoon. She decided to try the violin in this 2 month course that provides an introduction to playing an instrument. She enjoyed it and plans on joining the strings group again in the fall. She also has learned some of the notes and transferred this info to the piano! This class also helped her with reading music...

I got a really awesome gift for Mother's Day this year....a handheld GPS! It is really fun and we have been trying to learn to use it since it arrived on Monday. Well, today, we went out searching for our first "treasure" and I'm proud to say we found it just behind our house on the mountain. Very, very fun and we are so looking forward to finding more! This is the "travel bug" we found. These are cool cause they "travel" all around via the people that geocache and move them. You go online when you find one and tell the person that originally placed it where you found it and when. This one has been to New Mexico, Yuma and most recently in the cache behind our house! We plan on getting one going soon!

I also have pulled out my "Why I Walk" book from the 3-Day in 2004. I plan to add to it with all my donors for this year....I was really excited how it turned out and am proud to honor all my donors and breast cancer survivors from 2004 as well as all the names I need to add to it this year. Make sure when you donate you give me the names of those you want me to honor in my book, plus know I will have your name in there for all you do to support me and the fight against breast cancer!

Well that's it for now, thanks for stopping by and we'll talk with you next week!
WALK ON-WALK STRONG,
Terrie

Wow, What A Weekend!

2008-05-12T21:24:00.000-07:00

Let's just update you through pictures...

First we had Ian's last soccer game of the year....

they lost, but man those kids have a good time!

Then I had an Open House for National Scrapbooking

Month from 3-7 on Saturday Night!

This first pic is a card made by my friend Lori for her MIL

These are the "Clippy Boards" we made...Fun and Easy!

On Sunday, Mother's Day, Leah celebrated her

Confirmation at St. Gabriel's.

After lunch at an awesome Pizza Parlor, we went to

a very special place that all Mom's dream of going on Mother's Day....

That's right, our washing machine went out last week and there

was no way to get through till Tuesday when they will fix it, so off we headed to the Laundry Mat.

Hope your Mother's Day was awesome!

Walk on,

Terrie

Welcome Kaye!

2008-05-09T22:21:00.000-07:00

Welcome Kaye!

I know you will be visiting since I shared this address with you this evening!

Well, what do you think? I check out so many blogs everyday, I thought this might be a great way to mend my ways and keep in better touch with my family and friends!

I wanted to include another picture from the 3-Day in 2004 as I know you want to get as much info on the walk as you can:

This picture was at one of the cheering stations along the route. This particular station was on Day 2 (Saturday), so the kids made up some really cute signs and Bryan brought them down to cheer. It is so awesome to have everyone out there clapping, cheering and yelling encouragement along the route. Even when it is not an official cheering station, people will set up their own little station and stand and clap and cheer as you walk by. Some will stay in one place for an hour or two and then pack up and move ahead and do it all over again a couple of miles down the road! You really start looking for these folks and get to know them. It is very moving when someone stands there with tears in their eyes and just claps as you walk by. You know they have lost a loved one and just want to show their support. I can't wait to experience it all with you Kaye, you are going to love it!
I have a really busy day tomorrow with Ian's last day of soccer and awards ceremony in the morning and then my "Close to my Heart" Open House in the afternoon/evening. We rushed around tonight to get Leah something to wear for Confirmation on Sunday morning at the 10:30 mass. I will probably spend a lot of my Mother's Day at the Laundrymat since my washing machine went out last week and the part for the repair won't be here till next Tuesday : 0
Till next time,
Walk On,
Terrie

Thinking Back

2008-05-08T22:38:00.000-07:00

OK, I promised some pictures....Here is one that says a lot!

This is a picture after Day 2...I had worn new socks the first day of the walk and found out this is a big no no. You definately want to wear and wash anything you plan to walk 20 some miles in to make sure that you don't end up with blisters. This is also after I had spent over 1 hour in line to have medical look at my feet. As I headed out after getting my feet wrapped, I called Bryan to bring me second skin, mole skin, antibiotic ointment, and three kinds of tape to do my own blister care the next day. After I learned how to do it, it was a piece of cake and really wasn't all that painful.

Another lesson learned is that the walk doesn't consist of 20 miles each day, but more like 22, 24 and 14 miles each day and yes, 24 miles is a lot for one day!

One surprise I encountered is that you are a lot less sore after walking 20 miles than I thought I would be. As long as you are taking time to stretch throughout the day, it isn't that bad.

OK, that's all for today, but will write again soon with pics of one of the cheering stations.....

Walk on,

Terrie

2008-05-07T19:42:00.000-07:00

Welcome Friends to my Blog!

As you can see from the entry below, I have been working towards getting this blog going for quite some time.....
I'm ready now!

As I begin my journey to another year in the Breast Cancer 3-Day, I wanted to find a way to keep in touch with all my donors and let everyone know how my training is going.

Thanks so much to Rosa Lee Walsh my good friend from St. Gabes who is my first official donor that responded to my online fundraising! Thanks Rosa Lee!

I am planning to get my "snail" mailing sent out early next week as it will officially be "6 months" to the starting line....I can't believe how fast the time has gone since Kaye and I signed up.

I am also planning to get Kaye, my best friend and inspiration to get signed up to blog, so you can see how our team is doing! Kaye is sooooo excited to be walking in her first "3-Day" and I am ready to start getting into the swing of things...I apologize for my late start, but with all the end of the year activities for the kids and myself, I've been a little overwhelmed : )

I also hope to show off some of my paper crafting creations from time to time...I hope you don't mind, but that does comprise most of my "free" time. It is my relaxation method of choice!

That's it for my first night, but tomorrow, I plan to pull out some pictures from the walk in 2004 and share some memories over the next few posts!

Sooooo....I guess I'm committed now as I plan to include this blog address in all my thank you e-mails and letters that I send out, so save this address to your favorites and check back often for updates and till next time...

Walk on,
Terrie

I'm thinking about going live with this.....

2007-05-28T11:40:00.000-07:00

Hi Friends,

After a few months of playing around with this blog site thing, I am happy to have you visit my blog. I so enjoy reading blogs and hope that this will be a way for me to keep in closer contact with all my friends and realatives that I don't see on a regular basis. I also hope to be able to showcase some of my crafty projects that I've been working on.

In case you didn't know, I joined Close to my Heart a scrapbooking and stamping company last September. I love, love, love their papers and products, and am having a great time "playing" with everything. I am mostly doing this as a way to use up all the products I have as well as have new and upcoming products available. I do not have a live website with the company (it is kind of pricey), so currently I am doing crops and workshops locally and am doing long distance business through my personal e-mail. I'm hoping I will be able to also have anyone that is interested order through this blog. Details about this will be forthcoming. If you would like a catalog, just send me a comment, or contact me through my home e-mail at tododd@cox.net. You can also look at the current CTMH products online at http://www.closetomyheart.com/. If you see something you can't live without, write me and I'll get it ordered for you. (they can deliver it right to your house too!)

School is almost out here and we will be trying to settle into everyday summer life. Bryan and I still are working opposite days so we are hoping to get by with very little day care this summer....wish us luck.