p-inks

Creative Chaos

2012-01-29T19:53:00.000-08:00

I thought I would share a few photos of just how unruly my work area can get in a creative frenzy! Do you notice anything ....let's say....NEW! LOL

Rock the Block ---- for TWO more days!

2012-01-20T19:33:00.000-08:00

This past 5 weeks Close To My Heart has been having a ROCK THE BLOCK promotion.... you can get all the INFO HERE! and in the meantime grab a cup of coffee or tea and be sure to check out the amazing ideas some of my fellow consultants have come up with....

Start HERE to enjoy the ROCK THE BLOCK BLOG HOP!

then and now

2012-01-19T13:00:00.000-08:00

Going through my online photo storage the other night was like walking down memory lane. Just over 8 years ago I started with Close To My Heart as one of the company's first 16 consultants in Canada. This is one of the very first cards I taught at one of my initial gatherings. Love the big check paper still, and giggle at the random stamping....I would say my artwork has evolved in the last 8 years....

8 years ago....

a while back

2012-01-17T21:59:00.000-08:00

Once upon a time I had another blog which met it's demise in an untimely manner...I had these photos posted there and while tidying up my online photo storage I ran across them. I thought it would be fun to share them again. The dog belongs to one of my bosses and was a surprise for him, made from a calendar his daughter had given him the year before for Christmas. Both my boss and his wife love the album and it is one of my favorite projects. Their dogs name is Shay and she is a Bernese Mountain, her temperament is wonderful and she is a delight. The album is simply made on Black Chipboard which I bound using my Bind It All. The color of the paper (all from Close To My Heart and long retired) compliments Shay's beautiful coloring. I hope you enjoy this revisit.

You can click on any one of these photos for a closer look if you like!

ONLY 16 DAYS left - snag it up while you can!

2012-01-07T12:10:00.000-08:00

All good things must come to an end and at the end of January the following items will be retired from the Close To My Heart product line. As sad as it is to see some of our favorites go...there are also great new products coming. Be sure to snatch up the fav's on your list before they're gone forever!
Level 2 Paper Packs:
Believe
Dreamin’
Fanfare
Lucky
Mayberry
Mischief
Sophia
Wonderland

Workshops-on-the-Go:

Believe
Dreamin'
Elemental
Mischief
Roxie
Sonoma
Typeset
Wonderland

MyStickease:
Believe
Dreamin'
Fanfare
Lucky
Mayberry
Sophia
Wonderland

EMBELLISHMENTS! Mini Melody Accents
Antiqued Copper
Colonial White
Brads/Eyelets:
Colonial White Brads
Pewter Decorative Brads
Black & White Daisy Soft Set Eyelets
Chocolate & Colonial White Soft Set Eyelets
Dimensionals (Chipboard):
Flurry
On Target
Ribbon:
Colonial White Ribbon Collection
3/8" Cranberry Grosgrain Ribbon
3/8" Cocoa Grosgrain Ribbon
3/8" Colonial White Grosgrain Ribbon
3/8" White Daisy Grosgrain Ribbon
Wings Level 2 Assortment
Embroidery Floss:
Blue & Purple Assortment
Green Assortment
Red & Pink Assortment
Waxy Flax:
Cranberry
Crystal Blue
Juniper
Sorbet
Various Accessories:
Bliss Level 2 Assortment
Fanfare Level 2 Assortment
Foundry Metal - Bookplates
Harvest Charms
Holiday Pockets
Just Blooms Spring Blossom Paper Flowers
Just Blooms White Daisy Variety Pack
Lucky Level 2 Assortment
Lucky Level 2 Journaling Spots
Midnight Felt Shapes
Mischief Rub-ons
Sweetheart Level 2 Assortment
Top Coats Icing Overlays
Color-Ready Alphabets:
Hodge Podge
Oxford

My Creations:

Board Book
Journal
9x9 Memory Showcase

Supplies/Tools:

Rubber Brayer
Soft Set Eyelet Tool
Eyelet Tool Replacement Punches

8 1/2 x 11 Cardstock:
Black
Colonial White
White Daisy

Stamps:

A Hop
A Little Buzz
A Little Everything
A Love
A Paisley
A Posey
Adoption
Adorning Corners
Always In My Heart
Ambiance
Around The Block
Baby Love
Backgrounds & Borders
Beary Best
Beary Busy
Beautiful Butterflies
Beautiful Things
Believe In Your Dreams
Beloved
Birthday Blast
Birthday Boy
Bless This Nest
Blooming Layers
Bon Appetit
Boom!
Bunny Love
Campin' Fever
Carefree
Catching Waves
Charmed
Cherished Flourishes
Ciao
Circle Around
Circle of Love
Circle Together
Connections
Cruisin'
Cupcake Sprinkles
Daydream
Down By The Sea
Dream Big
Dreams Come True
Enjoy Every Moment
Extreme Happiness
Family
Family Ties - Adult
Family Ties - Children
Family Ties - Pet
Fill In The Blank
Flower Pot
For Every Occasion
Friendship Blessings
From My Heart
Fun Times
Happy Holidays
Happy Moments
Hero
His and Hers
Horizon
Hot Diggity
Howdy
In The Month Of April
In The Month Of February
In The Month Of July
In The Month Of June
In The Month Of March
In The Month Of May
It's A Zoo
Just For Boys
Just For Girls
Just The Ticket
Kanji Phrases
Let's Go Camping
Little Princess
Love Always
Love Birds
Love Ya
Magic Tabs
Makin' Waves
Ms. Chillin'
Ms. Scrapbook
Notice The Details
One Of A Kind
On The Edge
On This Day
Over The Rainbow
Paisley Praise
Piece of Cake
Play Day
Post Card - Travel Series
Precious Love
Priceless Love
Recipe Box
Retro Tech
Royal Birth
Salutation Seals
Shining Star
Smiles
So Lucky
Soul Mates
Springtime
Star Power
Summer Breeze
Summer Days
Sweet Baby
Take Luck
Tasty Treats
Tea Time
Thank You
Thrill Ride
T.L.C.
Togetherness
Treetops
Trellis
Two-Step Backgrounds
Unity
X-Treme
You Did It
You Rock
You're Great
You're Sweet

If you would like to view photos of the items, please check out Tamytha Jenkin's slideshow.
Thank you Tamytha for putting this slideshow together! And thank you to Vicki Wizniuk for sharing her list of retiring items!

Paper Trail - WONDERLAND

2012-01-02T18:41:00.000-08:00

Cute little mug stamp is exclusive to the Wonderland WOTG Kit

Hello All - I am hoping you've all survived the holidays unscathed and are ready for a new year of paper crafting. The Paper Trail Gang have come up with some great ideas using the Wonderland Reflections Kit.

If you've arrived from Connie's Scrap's & Stories , and were here before you'll notice I got my artwork up just in the nick of time (and not after just a little trauma surrounding my camera card! YIKES.)

If you've just arrived - then ignore the last sentence! I have to also admit that these were created in an eleventh hour artwork frenzy and I actually like how they turned out. I used scraps from the Wonderland kit as I had used most of the paper for a super duper layout as shown in the workshop on the go brochure. I paired the scraps with a sneak peak of a card pattern in our UPCOMING SPRING Idea Book AND the January Stamp of the Month "Little Reminder"

Thanks for stopping in and/or taking the time to pop back. I hope the trip back was worth it :)
Please head on over to Linda's PAPER TAYLOR for a look at more Wonderland artwork!

2011-12-24T22:17:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas to All ....

may you recieve JOY and PEACE

in your hearts as we celebrate the birth of the Saviour!

A card created a few years ago, alas also one of my favorites!

More ROXY

2011-12-02T23:35:00.001-08:00

One of the first things I thought of when I saw the 6 x 6 Quick Pic albums was a cute little mini album, next came the ROXY paper and an old pattern system to pull it all together into a *10 Things I Love about You* album. Using the outstanding (this cartridge really should win an award) Art Philosophy Cricut cartridge, to make the tabs and numbers, made this a relatively quick project to create.

For more information or further details on this album, don't hesitate to drop me a email.

ROXY Paper Trail Monthly Hop

2011-11-30T21:00:00.000-08:00

Thanks for Stopping in from Lynne's .... for yet another stellar offering from Close to My Heart and our wonderful, artistic consultants. I hope you enjoy this sweet little journey down the Paper Trail.

When I opened the Autumn/Winter Idea book for the first time, the first page it opened to was the ROXY level 2 paper. It was like it was designed or predestined to open there. I fell in love on the spot. In an odd way it reminded me of my aunt, Rosemary - plaid, sturdy and strong, with a splash of a wild side with the zebra stripe. The colors used in this kit are devine to work with, of course the chocolates and black add a stability to the fun and fresh look. Tulip and Cotton Candy add a splash of whimsy and overall this is a great kit to do many many things with.

On to the artwork now! I've been holding on to this artwork for a long 5 months now, just waiting to post. Those of you who attend my workshops may already have seen this - I hope to be posting some other Roxy things as the month moves on.

Remember you can click on the photo to see the finer details.

Roxy Layout - the Paper is almost too beautiful to cover up!

Close Up of stamped roses and bling!

Card Box using all of the blingy bling and Ribbon Rosettes

Using the 'scraps' I created these co-ordinating cards for the card box

And finally (well at least for today) a single page layout that will be the front page for my Me, Myself & I album. Stay tuned for more information on a year long Album Workshop where we'll create layouts that tell the secrets of our hearts - Me, Myself and I

Colors used in all above projects: Cocoa, Tulip, Cotton Candy, Black, Colonial White

I appreciate you taking the time to stop by, and appreciate your comments even more!

Please keep on following the PAPER TRAIL over to ..... TERRI'S "My Frame of Mind"

fourth Mego Merry Card

2011-11-10T16:09:00.000-08:00

I finally had a chance to get a photo of this one as it was the last one (and last minute I might add) card I did for the Mega Merry card class last week. I like the iciness of the card - using non-traditional Christmas colors is a favorite thing to do. With a dash of Glitz the finished card is a delight. (apparently the tying of the buttons was burdensome...lol)

I hope you've enjoyed my Mega offerings these last few days. I'm off to design some more fun stuff including two pop up cards that will be shown soon!

2011-11-10T00:36:00.000-08:00

I adore this card and it will be my family Christmas greeting this year. Using the Art Philosophy cartridge - yes again....lol - this card was simple and fun to make. Winter Joy is a set with so many possibilities but I wanted to keep it simple. With a bit of Believe paper tucked under to mat the stamped image and the simple sentiment, this card will be a delight to mass produce and give at the holidays!

Giftie Glam

2011-11-08T16:14:00.001-08:00

I'm pretty sure this is not an original idea but it's original to me! I love this little pillow box on the AP-Cricut Cartridge. I cut it at 5 1/2 to get the perfect size for a gift card. With a few other quick embellishments we have an envelope to house the card that Santa himself would be tickled to recieve!

2011-11-08T00:32:00.000-08:00

Sometimes I get these ideas that may or may not exactly work on paper. Using a retired set from last winter, I created this one of a kind snowflake. It's a bit woodsy but gives a different look altogether of a Christmas card. Do you ever create something funky just to try an idea?

2011-11-06T00:27:00.000-07:00

Do you ever start out with an idea and at the end of the journey have something totally different then the start! This card is a prime example of that for me. While I knew I wanted to use the holly from A Holiday and the tickets from the November Stamp of the Month - Cherish the Day, when I originally put the card together it was lacking something! POOF.... more ink! LOL After adding the different greetings from a variety of sets, with a sprig of holly, again from the A Holiday set, the card came together.

Here we have #3 of my Mega Merry Card class..... I hope the gals like this as much as I do!

Winter Wonderland

2011-11-04T00:22:00.000-07:00

AP - Cricut Cartridge strikes again. This card is ultra simple, using a snowflake from the Art Philosophy Cricut Cartridge, a great medalion title piece and bubble ribbon. Background is dry embossed using the Cuttlebug.

Another of my MEGA offerings...

Mega Merry Greetings....

2011-11-02T00:18:00.000-07:00

This month I am hosting several workshops but this coming Saturday promises to be the busiest of them all. My annual BINGE card making class is going to be MEGA MERRY this year. With four different designs - the gals will make five of each and carry home a bundle of joy to pass on to family and friends. We're all looking forward to this tremendously.

Card made using "Believe" set, of which I embossed the Santa in Cranberry. The sentiment comes from the Christmas Love set. My cricut set up the beautiful decal shapes and scalloped border. I love my ART PHILOSOPHY Cartridge from Close to My Heart.

Warm HOLIDAY WISHES

2011-11-01T19:03:00.000-07:00

This set is so pretty I just can't wait to get my hands on it to PLAY! I have many many ideas for this set! You can own your very own set....here's how!

When you place a minimumorder of $25 in My Acrylix^® stamp sets in November (and also beginning Oct. 27), you can purchase a new D-sizeHoliday Wishes stamp set for only $5! That’s significant savings off the full retail value of $17.95. And even better: many of the images in the set coordinate with ourCricut^® Art Philosophy cartridge for added cutting and stamping fun!

To place your order, just head to my website, or email/phone me directly :)

Dreamin' - Paper Trails Hop

2011-10-31T21:00:00.000-07:00

I cannot begin to describe how wonderfully rich and gorgeous this paper is. I have SEVERAL (as you can see by the number of photos) projects done with the Dreamin' Level 2 pack and have another package waiting oh just waiting for more. I can't see to get enough of it and to be honest it is the package I've reached for most. So without further ado.....

if you've arrived from Linda Taylors - The Paper Taylor Dreamin' offerings then you are definitely on the right path!

Off we do down the path.....

First of all this is an overview of the terrific papers that come in the Dreamin' pack!

Remember you can click on the photo to see more detail

A cute little dorr pocket to hold little notes. We made this as a fridge note holder and the ladies just loved the idea - you can change the theme of the paper to match the seasons and add more tags or just slips of paper as needed!

Using the PAIR-A-PHRASE promotional set from September this card just begged to be made...love the little button flower too!

I am adding the above card as a reminder to myself that when the 'mojo isn't working' it's time to put down the paper! LOL

The above four photos show cards made using DREAMIN' - the ones on the left in each photo were done at Regionals in Vancouver in late September. As we got 2 of each card to do I chose to 'alter' the second card using the alternate side of paper in each case. We had alot of fun in Vancouver and DREAMIN' added to it.

please hop on down the trail to Karen Barbers - Inky Fingers

HAPPY HALLOWEEN

2011-10-31T07:33:00.000-07:00

Another clue to the sparkly puzzle

2011-10-23T08:41:00.000-07:00

Here is another piece to the sparkly puzzle.....have you been thinking about it? The over all picture has many possibilities but it all starts with..... oh I can't give it away yet. Stay tuned - are you liking what you see so far! Leave a comment and you could possibly win something 'sparkly' from me (non-consultants only will be considered to win please)

2011-10-20T23:02:00.001-07:00

Do you wonder what on earth this could be? I know -- do you want me to tell you? Stay tuned for more pieces to this wonderful 'sparkly' puzzle.

Shape a Day Week 2

2011-10-18T22:59:00.000-07:00

Hi all

I have been anticipating the Shape A Day posts on Jeanette Lyntons blog, each day. The artwork is great...be sure to check it out.

Tough Guy - Sticky Boy

2011-10-14T17:37:00.000-07:00

Have you wondered why I get all excited about Clear Acrylix Stamps from Close to My Heart? If you're one the the 'CTMH' consultants out there you already know the answer behind this....if you're not - CLICK on the video and get the answer! Who needs muscles or brawn? Sticky Boy is a tough guy who just keeps us stamping enthusiasts on the go.....

HAPPY THANKSGIVING

2011-10-08T18:45:00.000-07:00

Wishing my family, friends and customers a wonderful and safe Thanksgiving. We have a lot to be thankful for and I pray that you will have a grateful heart at this time of year and always.

SHAPE-A-DAY WEEK 1

2011-10-08T18:35:00.000-07:00

For full details and more great artwork check out www.jeanettelynton.com

$99 = FUN and then some!

2011-10-02T23:44:00.000-07:00

Longing to have your own business? Set your own hours? Earn a fabulous commission and overrides on your personal sales and beyond? Just want to have the best stuff at a discount?

JOIN MY TEAM THIS MONTH

For just $99 CDN (plus tx/sh) when you enroll to be a Close To My Heart Independent consultant, between October 1–31, 2011, will receive one FREE* New Consultant Kit add-on collection! Priced at $40 CDN with a retail value of $85 CAN– $140 CAN, this is an incredible deal, and an awesome way to expand your new business supplies or stash of exclusive product.

CLICK ON PHOTO FOR MORE INFORMATION!

Check out my TEAM TAB above to learn how easy becoming a consultant is!

Paper Trails - BELIEVE in October

2011-09-30T21:42:00.000-07:00

I am so excited about this project and all the other gals blog hop posts for Octobers FOCUS PAPER - BELIEVE, from Close to My Heart. If you've arrived here from BETSY GULLY'S Stamp Scrap Fever you are definitely on the trail....

This month I wanted to do something a little different. Using our My Creations Cube, chipboard box I've created a cute little pre-holiday accent for keeping all those ideas that seem to float around, but never get onto a Christmas wish list. I beg my kids and hubby to write things down for me and hopefully this way they can simply jot down their wish on a cute little stocking, insert it in the box and by the end of November I will have a ton of ideas for their holiday gifts. The ART PHILOSOPHY cricut cartridge from CTMH has become my best friend these past few months.

Click on Photo for larger detail.

Click on Photos for larger detail

Cover the box with paper of choice, on the four sides and bottom. I used a plain cardstock for the bottom as it won't be seen.
Choose dimensional 'frame' element and trace (inside frame) onto the center of top piece of paper for box. (remember to do it on the wrong side so you don't have pencil marks showing) Cut out hole. I then mounted my patterned paper on a piece of coordinating cardstock and cut that center piece out as well. Ink or cover 'frame' and mount over hole. Mount this piece (finally...lol) onto top of box.
Cut out 'fry box' from AP cartridge in coordinating paper (I believe i used a 2.5" setting on this one) and tie with ribbon around front, mounting in center of front side panel.
Cut using AP cartridge several 'stockings' and stamp top cuff using your image and color of choice.
Tie the box together at corners using buttons and waxy flax in coordinating colors, as anchors to make the box extra sturdy.
Insert stockings into fry box on front and you have an instant (okay maybe 1 hour later) cute adornment to collect all those great wish list ideas.

Other ideas for this kind of box could be a 'piggy bank' at a baby shower with photos of the new babe attached to sides. A Money Bank at a wedding shower or on a gift table at a wedding, birthday bank, wish list ideas throughout the year.....the possibilities are absolutely endless.

Thanks for stopping on the trail - please head on over to VICKI WIZNIUKS - WIZARDS HANGOUT for the next pitstop!

Gathering Green Hearts Together

2011-09-26T07:21:00.000-07:00

This past weekend in Vancouver Close to My Heart consultants gathered to celebrate Regional convention. I was thrilled to see old friends and meet some new team members. I'll have more photos to come soon but here is one of most of the team that was there!

Dreamin'

2011-09-25T22:36:00.000-07:00

One of my all time favorite paper packages is the new DREAMIN' Level 2 My Reflections paper pack. The color combinations and patterns make my heart flitter. Using an image from the Pair - a - Phrase promotional set for September I created this fun little card in no time at all.

Sing it with me......

2011-09-18T20:17:00.000-07:00

She's a scrappin machine a scrappin machine....yah yah yah yah scrappin machineeeeeeeee (sung to 'dancing machine)

Yesterday was spent in the company of two lovely ladies who inspire me, make me laugh and encourage me to keep on going, keep on scrapping and keep on being the sometimes zany woman I am. We scrapped from mid-morning to mid-evening and I was able to accomplish many goals, prepping for classes and such. I wanted to share with you a smidge of some artwork I worked on a few weeks ago as the scrapping yesterday is for upcoming classes and I don't want to let the cat out of the bag yet. I love to scrapbook and spending the day with these ladies reminded me that MY story is important, MY desire to preserve my families memories is important AND that the relationships we form in the process are important too!

My wish for you this fall is that YOU will take the time to share and preserve your stories. That YOU will take/MAKE the time to form relationships in the process! That the love of sharing your stories with others will bring YOU JOY, LOVE and a sense of PEACE. I love my scrappin' ladies......my life is enriched through the process of sharing my stories with them.

MORE DISCOUNTED ITEMS ADDED

2011-09-14T23:25:00.000-07:00

A plethora of discounted and retired products are available to you at phenomenal prices. Check back often to take advantage of these products that are offered while supplies last!
Check out my website at MY WEBSITE

REMEMBER you have until September 30th to earn your FREE DOUBLE STAMP SET - PAIR A PHRASE when you place an order of $82 or more ---> website orders only for discounted items!

MyCTMH

pammie.myctmh.com

Close To My Heart offers high-quality, innovative scrapbooking and stamping products to guide and inspire your creative efforts.

Sonoma - Paper Trails

2011-08-31T22:00:00.000-07:00

Welcome to the SEPTEMBER Paper Trail bog hop! If you arrived here from Lindas blog, The Paper Taylor, you are on the right path. We've added a few more ladies to the trail for your viewing pleasure.

Sonoma Level 2 Paper Pack
Remember you can click on the photo to view it in more detail.

It finally arrived and I've had time to play! As soon as I saw this paper and the October SOTM set I knew I wanted to play in a very Victorian way. These two cards were created using very basic card making patterns, embellished simply with ribbon and pearls, reminding me of how cards perhaps were originally made. I hope you enjoy these - Sonoma is my feature paper pack for October so be sure to check back for more artwork.

THANK YOU for returning to see what my paper trail left......

I hope you'll take a minute to pop back over when I get the Sonoma artwork up - until then please hop on over to view Lynne's offering at her blog Fields Finery

Self Made Background

2011-08-24T21:38:00.000-07:00

I had a lot of fun designing this background and card. It involves several pieces but now that I have my handy dandy cricut ART PHILOSOPHY cartridge from Close to My Heart - making this will be a breeze! Thanks for looking.

I stamped the background using the TWO STEP background set (D1473) and then dry embossing gridlines in one inch blocks. I ran my inkpad over top to capture the ink on the grid pattern, adding another dimension to the paper. Next steps involved alot of cutting (this was prior to the cricut cart release...lol) using Dutch Blue, Crystal Blue, Sweet Leaf and Pear inks and papers. The stars are dimensional chip board shapes. Adding dimension to cards is especially fun with pop dots, making the birthday greeting pop right off the card. For futther information don't hesitate to contact me.

4 - 3 - 2 - 1!!!!!

2011-08-18T18:26:00.001-07:00

4 GREAT SETS

To celebrate our new Stamp of the Month program, when you spend $55, you can get the Stamp of the Month for only $5.50. Do this between August 15th and 31st and get the adorable TYPESET stamp set absolutely FREE!

THREE Great Ways to SAVE....

Below is the August Stamp of the Month called Wicked. When you spend $55 this month, you can get this set for only $5.50!

TWO SETS IN ONE! Our first ever double pack....

AND, to celebrate National Stamping Month which is in September, you will get this amazing DOUBLE stamp set called Pair-a-Phrase for FREE, when you spend $82! You’ll love this double set—two D-size sets come in one envelope—which includes lots of clever phrases and coordinating images you’ll use in your handmade cards all year. And with a retail value of $39.95, this set drastically increases the value of your qualifying purchase! CTMH is starting this promotion today, August 15th and it will run through September 30th.

ONE GREAT COMPANY!

Since the promotions overlap from August 15 - 31, if you spend $82, and get the August Stamp of the Month Wicked for $5.50 you will get both the A Typeset stamp for FREE and thePair-a-Phrase double stamp set for FREE!

If you have been thinking about ordering the new Art Philosophy Cricut cartridge bundle, now is the perfect time to do it because you will qualify for all of these great promotions and you will get 4 extra stamp sets for only $5.50. There are TONS of other great items to choose from as well, including lots of great discounted, while supplies last, products.

NEW IDEA BOOK goes LIVE TODAY

2011-08-01T20:59:00.000-07:00

Whhhhheeee August has finally arrived and I can share with you the most exciting thing since sliced bread (well there probably has been a few things in between but you know what I mean.....lol) Check it out - the NEW AUTUMN/WINTER Idea book from Close to My Heart

You can click on any image in this post to see it larger and in more detail.

1. New Idea Book Is Live: You can view it by clicking on the link below or the catalog image on the left side of my blog. I am thrilled with the inspiration and new products.

Our background and texture paper (patterned paper) is now a heavier weight. In addition to that, it now has a 'zip strip' that is a fun border you can add to your creations! (They're always thinking at corporate)
Acrylic stamp set prices have dropped too. How many companies do you see LOWERING prices right now?

Here is the link to view the brand new Idea Book. If you'd like an Idea Book of your own, there are a few ways to get one:

Stop by my OPEN HOUSE (TBA in upcoming newsletter) later this month, or by my home if you're in the neighbourshood
If you need one sent, I'm happy to send one to you for the price of shipping ($5). The Idea Book is on me!

To order from the new Idea Book, just head to my website and click "Shop Online".

2. There is a great special this month called "Extra, Extra"!: When you spend $55 (before shipping and tax)you qualify for the August Stamp of the Month (Wicked...see below) for $5.50. When you purchase the SOTM you get this exclusive font stamp set (not available any other way) for FREE!

3. August Stamp of the Month: The Stamp of the Month program has been simplified. And, if you spend $55 in a single order (before shipping and tax) you can now get the Stamp of the Month for less than half the price you could before. Here's how the simplified program works:

Spend $55 and the Stamp of the Month is yours for only $5.50 ($19.95 value)
You can also purchase the set for it's full value of $19.95.

I am really excited about all the positive changes that this new idea book brings! DON'T WAIT TO GET YOUR COPY! CALL or EMAIL ME NOW!

August PAPER TRAIL - Anything Goes

2011-08-01T00:39:00.000-07:00

Welcome to the August Paper Trail bog hop! If you arrived here from Terri's blog, My Frame of Mind, you are on the right path. I am delighted to be asked to participate in this hop and hope you will take the time to hop through all these delightful ladies creations.

In July Close to my Heart consultants from all over the US and Canada came together in Anaheim, California for our annual convention. Beautiful new papers were introduced and I am so excited to share them with you over the next few months. But for August our artists agreed to an "anything goes" hop since we had so little time to order, receive and use our new products. As my first order of new product is enroute I chose to use a layout from the new Autumn Winter Idea book with a paper line that is carrying over, LUCKY. I find this paper so versatile and love the richness of it. I hope you enjoy my offering and now please hop on over to Mary's blog, The Road to.....

Complete Layout using Bamboo Background, Lucky B&T papers, Pewter brads and hinges and stamp set Enjoy Life, from the LUCKY Workshop on the Go. Ink: Cocoa and Outdoor Denim

A ruffled edge made from B&T paper adds a softness to an otherwise manly looking layout.

Using a 1/8th pop dot I 'lifted' two of the photos (one on other page) to add additional dimension to the layout

Click on Photo to enlarge for more detail.

BIG CHANGES - LAST CHANCES!

2011-07-20T21:58:00.000-07:00

So what's the new stuff?

Level 2 Paper Packs – Lower prices and new quantities make our paper
packets easier to purchase and consume

Paper packet prices have dropped!! They are now $10.95 and include 6 B&T patterned papers (2 each of 3 double-sided designs) and 6 cardstock sheets (2 each of 2 colors, 1 each of 2 neutrals). It’s now easier to consume all of your paper and not feel guilty about having leftovers.
The B&T patterned papers are now cardstock weight. This new weight is great for accents, layering and base pages. There are full-colour designs on both sides with no show-through and no CTMH logo to cut around. Plus, there’s a half-inch “zip strip” with product info on one side and fun designs that you can use on your layouts or cards on the reverse.

Lower prices on My Acrylix stamp sets

A-size – $7.75 (was $8.75)
B-size – $10.95 (was $15.50)
C-size – $$15.50 (was $20.95)
D-size – $19.95 ( was $25.50)
E-size – $33.50 (was $38.95)
More than 32 new individual stamp sets and all stamp images
are shown at 100% in the idea book, so there's no guessing about the size.

New Embellishments

Holiday Pockets (felt)
Top Coats Icing Overlays (clear acrylic pieces)
Complements (alternative to MyStickease, for some paper packs)
Cork Color-Ready Alphabets
Foundry Clips
Designer Brads (Rhinestone, Copper)
Mini-Medley Collections (Pewter, Honey, Olive)
New Glitz Glitter Gel colors (bronze, red, silver)
Midnight Felt Shapes
Harvest Charms
Milepost Shapes (corrugated shapes)
Heirloom Assortment (Resin flowers & dangle jewels)
Bling Assortment (Bling buttons & pins)
Decor Journaling Spots
Just Blooms Paper Shapes – Butterflies
Designer Ribbon – Red Collection
Designer Ribbon – Green Collection
Dark Chocolate Striped Grosgrain Ribbon
Ribbon slides
Irresistables Make-It-Count Numbers
Dimensioanl Monogram Alphabets (new fonts)
10 Things Pocket
…and so much more!

Other New Items

New cardstock shade packs (three harmonious colors in one
convenient package; 12 sheets, 4 of each color)
Kraft Die-Cut Cards and Envelopes
White Daisy Die-Cut Cards and Envelopes
Quick Pic Albums (6×6)
My Creations Memory Game (chipboard squares and box)
My Creations Card Box (store cards, photos, etc)
New 4" x 5" My Acrylix Block

Workshops on the Go Kits

Make two 2-page layouts and then use your remaining supplies, along with a few additional items to make the bonus projects (cards or 3D items)
Kits contain a paper packet, embellishments, instructional brochure and
now a C-sixed stamp set (was a B-size set)
Instructions for bonus projects will be available online.

Stamp of the Month

Spend $55 and get the Stamp of the Month for $5.50 You can also purchase it
outright for the retail price of $19.95.
In the Idea Book, you'll notice that each Stamp of the Month has corresponding
projects and a supply list. Simply visit the URL listed in the book for complete project instructions.

Hostess Credits

You don’t need to host a gathering or participate in my clubs to take advantage of hostess credits. If you place an order for at least $165, you can receive $30 in Hostess credits. The rewards increase the more you spend.
Hostess credits have been expanded to include Workshops on the Go kits, Studio J memberships and Studio J 5-packs.

List compiled by Kristine Ponte, Independent CTMH Consultant - thanks Kristine.

you say CriCut - I say OH YES! CRICUT

2011-07-15T13:56:00.001-07:00

hopefully she's not checking in... Day 4

2011-07-15T12:00:00.000-07:00

Pam Klassen

Debbie Carriere

Annette Green

I know I have a few more to post..... stay tuned!

She's still not looking.... day 3

2011-07-14T12:00:00.000-07:00

Nancy Ball

Nancy Brown

the cat is still away day 2

2011-07-13T12:00:00.000-07:00

Jamia Bankhead

Jen Rubio

Nancy Ball

Nancy is off playing with the big guns at convention so here I go with two more stunning swap cards....

While the Cats away....

2011-07-12T22:51:00.000-07:00

The organizer of the Humble Artist Group is away at our annual convention in Disneyland no less and I decided that while the cat's away the mouse will play. I've been waiting patiently to post these swap cards (we're supposed to wait until the group of them is posted on the corp bb) but it seems like forever -- So while Nancy is away meeting Mickey and scrappin with Minnie - I'm going to buck the system and post the cards, two a day for the next few days! Yikes hope I don't get booted! LOL

Pam Klassen

Annette Green
Making your own background paper was part of this challenge. Going beyond normal random stamping and challenging ourselves to try more....

RETIRING PAPER KITS

2011-07-04T23:52:00.000-07:00

The following Paper kits and coordinating embellishments will be retiring at the end of July, 2011

SHOP HERE- make sure you don't miss out!!!
STOCK UP IN JULY and get more BANG FOR YOUR BUCK!

Hooligans

Olivia

Magnifique

Mistletoe

Bliss

Miracle

Sweetheart

Wings

More Bang for your buck!

2011-07-02T10:19:00.000-07:00

Have you heard! In July you can get more bang for your buck when you purchase $50 or more in any close to my heart product your heart desires! Choose from one of the qualifying bonus items

SPEND $50, GET AN ITEM FOR $1.

It’s simple. Spend $50, add a bonus item for $1 (five products to choose from). Because everyone loves saving money.

Eligible $1 Bonus Items:

X5811 Creative Basics® Mistletoe (value: $9.95)
X5807 Creative Basics® Animal Cookies (value: $9.95)
X8624 My Originals® Bits & Pieces Card Kit (value: $14.50)
X8622 My Originals® It’s Your Day Card Kit (value: $14.50)
X8623 My Originals® Around the Holidays Card Kit (value: $16.50)

* Offer available July 1–31, 2011. Tax and shipping/handling charges apply. Close To My Heart reserves the right to substitute a comparable promotional item. Limit one promotional item per qualifying order.

love getting boxes from CTMH

2011-06-06T21:43:00.000-07:00

Click on the photo to enlarge for more detail

My Studio J order arrived today and I have to say I am mightily impressed with the quality. A couple of my layouts I used older digital photos with and they turned out slightly pixelated, but that's alright. They are pictures I probably wouldn't have scrapped otherwise so a little blur is alright. I have one more layout to share...kind of a quirky one. I'm going to add some dimension to it with actual embellishments....

"Free For All" Studio J June Special

2011-06-04T01:03:00.000-07:00

During the month of June Close To My Heart is giving EVERYONE a FREE Studio J .jpg file, no purchase required. Simply create a Studio J layout, then order a FREE .jpg of your layout. It's as easy as that!

Click on the video to see just how Fast, Simple and Easy it is to create scrapbook pages

Back to scrappin/school

2011-06-01T06:39:00.000-07:00

Click on the photo to see in more detail.

This layout was so much fun to do, and quick as well using the Studio J online scrapbooking program from Close to My Heart. Getting caught up is proving to be as fun digitally as traditional scrappin'!

Jubilation in June Blog Hop

2011-05-31T22:44:00.000-07:00

CLICK HERE to start hopping to over 60 Close to My Heart consultants creations using JUNE stamp of the Month JUBILATION - The artwork is stunning! HOP Along on this creative jubilation journey!

Cruisin' the Potomac

2011-05-31T00:01:00.000-07:00

Another Studio J layout - Click on the photo to see it in more detail

As an Independent Consultant at Director level, with Close to My Heart, one of the things I most enjoy and look forward to at convention is the Director's Dinner. This is an event for Directors and above only that CTMH puts on to show appreciation. Each year the dinner location is not disclosed until the very last moment as a surprize to those attending. Convention 2010 Directors Dinner was a dinner cruise on the Potomac River in Washington DC. I have to say that after years of reading in history about these places and seeing images on TV of the Washington Monument or the White House, it was particularly moving to be seeing these places in person.

The cruise was fabulous. I appreciate the opportunity to be there!

Inspired by Studio J

2011-05-29T13:10:00.000-07:00

You can drag a horse kicking and screaming to water but you can't make him drink.....well at least until he's thirsty! I have pushed Studio J to the back burner for some time now - not really understanding how a 'traditional scrapper' could 'sell out' to digital. As most good things in life, sometimes it takes a while to 'catch on' to the easy peasy things. Don't get me wrong - I am not switching to digital solely. I'm not even sure I'll use it *all that much*. What I do know and have come to grasp is, it most definitely has a place in any creative papercrafts bag 'o tricks.

I am working on a secret project and need to get some layouts caught up quick - what was my first instinct you ask? Studio J! I love the products that Close To My Heart has to offer and LOVE the fact that with Studio J I can still achieve that same look of quality as if I had put the pages together myself. Over the next few days I will be posting several of my first batch of layouts for MSP (my secret project) - I hope you like them and if you're inspired to try it as well check out the link on the right -->

Memories of Washington, DC Convention 2010

old dogs

2011-05-28T22:34:00.000-07:00

I wanted to be a student today and went to lss to find out what was happening for classes. It has been forever and a day since I took a class there and never with the gal who was teaching. I thought it would be a great way to get the juices flowing again. The class subject was 'flower soft' - this fine colored plastic material that you can add as an embellishment on stamped images, photos, pictures etc. It looks especially lovely when you do 'paper toll' with your picture, giving it a very layered dimensional look. We made three cards, one of which is about an inch from falling into the garbage can, it is so hideous.

This card was my particular favorite. We only did the card topper and I put it together with the BELLA CTMH paper when I got home. I think it is a match made in heaven and worth the exhorbidant price they charged for the class.

I'll have to save up for the next class, and in the meantime I will have this lovely card as a reminder of what it's like to be the 'student' and not the teacher.

you say potatoe, I saw pat-ah-tow

2011-05-22T23:47:00.000-07:00

A friend and fellow addicted papercrafter, and I, were scrapping the day away yesterday and she pulled out this adorable card. She used the A Tulip set by Close to My Heart. I had asked her to design a card to teach at an upcoming class, however she was totally unsatisfied with the outcome of her card. I think it's so sweet and cute but she just plain does not like it - something didn't sit right with her.

She left the extra pieces she had stamped with me and I decided to take on the challenge of creating my own version of it. With a little bit of ink for shading and a slightly different set up of the cards this is what I came up with.

Colors: Creme Brulee, Cotton Candy, Juniper, Black, Petal

I think all of the cards are sweet and springy - I like them alot - how about you? It's all in the perspective I think.

HOPE is Alive

2011-05-21T10:05:00.000-07:00

Thank you to all who purchased the HOPE for Japan set in April - CTMH was able to donate more than $80,000 to the American Red Cross to help those in need in Japan after the devasting Tsunami. It truly shows that people are willing to help others in need.

Stay tuned for some new artwork coming soon.....

May Blog Hop ---> Chair's to You

2011-05-01T22:56:00.000-07:00

It's the First of the Month again and as usual a group of very talented Close To My Heart consultants have come up with the most amazing artwork using the stamp of the month. Be sure to check it all out starting HERE!

M0M

2011-04-21T23:39:00.000-07:00

It's that time again when we think about the upcoming day of the year to celebrate our mom's. Being a mom now I can understand more fully how much time and effort my mom put into making sure my brother, sister and I learned and had the things necessary to our well-being. I think we turned out pretty good :) I hope when my kids are older (and hopefully parents themselves some day) they will consider that my hubby and I did a 'pretty good' job parenting them.

This year I want to celebrate not only my mom with Mother's Day in May, but all my friends, my sister and the women in my life that mean so much to me. I work with an amazing woman, one of the hardest working and genuinely gracious people I have ever met. My sister, who watches out for our Mom (not that Mom needs watching...lol) and cares for her in her way. My friends who continually reach through their busy lives to life me up, laugh with me and encourage me with antidotes of their own life lessons. It has been said that I have a very eclectic group of friends and I would have to agree. I believe each one of them fills a need in my life and for that I am so grateful.
And last but not least the 'gals of the paper-circle' - my Close to My Heart friends. People I would not have met had I not become a consultant 7 (almost 8) years ago. Each inspires me to reach for higher levels of personal and business success.

To each of these precious women in my life - THANK YOU for allowing me to be the woman I am, keeping me grounded while cheering me on to greater highs. I am grateful for you.

Delightful

2011-04-12T20:37:00.000-07:00

Hello All..... seems like a while since I posted some original artwork so here goes. The bunny card is based loosely on several cards I've seen on blogs. So thanks to all those inspirations. I rather enjoyed working with a blending pen and some markers on the bunny. I am a self admitted marker dork. I don't like them, seldom use them and when I do am usually less than satisfied with the outcome. Alas this time the coloring turned out pretty nicely if I do say so myself (and considering I hardly get comments I guess I am just talking to myself...lol)

This "Blessed" card was made using the April Stamp of the Month of the same name. I am having some "issues" with this set (sometimes I don't see the beauty until I see someone elses version of it...lol) and was just fiddling around with this card. In the process of making it however I did discover just how awesome the MAYBERRY level 2 paper package is. It has delightfully smallish patterns that are great for cardmaking and yet larger motifs that make you just want to scrapbook some fun spring photos. Either way I am going to be stocking up on my Mayberry stock...lol.

All products used are available through Close to My Heart (unless otherwise noted) - check out my website for more awesome artwork and ideas, by clicking on the shop with me button to your right --->>>

Blessed - April BLOG HOP

2011-03-31T21:20:00.000-07:00

CHECK HERE --> to view a fabulous array of artwork using the April Stamp of the Month BLESSED While I haven't participated in the swap for a long time I still love to check it out each month to see how other gals have interpreted the set. It is always inspiring so be sure to take a peek - or two or three. If you're interested in the set please contact me to find out how you can purchase it or earn it for FREE

National Scrapbooking Month Promotion --- COMING IN MAY

2011-03-31T18:59:00.000-07:00

COMING TO a SCRAPPER NEAR YOU IN MAY

hope for Japan

2011-03-24T22:53:00.000-07:00

As we've seen in the last week the devastation in Japan is unimaginable. The after effects of nuclear disaster, radiation, the heartbreak of missing people and the almost insurmountable task of rebuilding mades one really think about what *HOPE* means.

Close To My Heart's owner and founder, Jeanette Lynton is such a genuinely caring person and this is more pronounced by her latest idea: a stamp set in which 100% of the profits go straight to the American Red Cross to benefit relief efforts in Japan.

Starting today, March 24 through April 30 this set is available to you for $5! Typically this size set sells for $8.95 but Jeanette has made it even more affordable. Please know that 100% of the profit will go directly to the American Red Cross to help in the relief efforts in Japan.

To order this set, go to my website , click on "Shop Online" and you can enter item #A1118, or click on the "Hope for Japan" link. If you have other items to order, you will be also be prompted to enter this set at checkout. There is no limit to how many you can order so order one for yourself and each of your crafty friends!! This is a GREAT gift for any scrappin' or stampin' friends you might have, and while giving them this beautiful gift, you are helping Japan! Everyone wins! I am so proud to promote Close To My Heart's act of charity.

In Jeanette's own words: "If we all do a little, together we can do a lot. Let's show our support and together, provide real HOPE for Japan!"

Ink Me Up!

2011-03-05T19:59:00.000-08:00

I never in a million years would have thought I would ever consider having a tattoo. It's not that I am/was against them, I just didn't think I was that *type* - aside from the pain factor...lol. In recent years hubby and I had talked about him getting a tattoo and finalizing the image that he wanted to get. It's a colossol step to permanently ink yourself with a tattoo (nothing like stamp ink which eventually washes off... :)) and not something to be taken lightly. You want to make sure you get what you want - and have a tatto artist that can give it too you. There are no take-backs in this medium! In 2007 hubby finally had what he wanted tattooed on his arm and I was privvy to seeing him get it. Painful yes, lasting pain no. So this gave way to more thought on getting one myself, but what to get? It had to be meaningful and so I jam-packed it full of things that were significant to me! Now where to put it? I don't see the point of putting a tattoo *behind* you where you can't see it easily, I didn't want something that was *out there* and also wanted something that could be easily covered up if need be. Ah-hah! I finally had it all together, the image, the artist (a local guy named Craig Smith out of Scarecrow Ink) and the spot - can you guess where it is?

2009 I finally followed Gerald into the tattoo shop and in late June we both got tattoo's of images we wanted....he added a date to the tat he had in recognition of his Christian faith and his Mom (the dates are her birth and death) and I got my *Cross of Love*

I love the little beading I found at a local fabric shop, it adds a touch of zippity do dah to a page that is already full of color, zip and zing.....

March Stamp of the Month Blog Hop

2011-02-28T21:59:00.000-08:00

While I haven't had a chance to play with my set yet - tons of our consultants over North America have been playing.

CLICK HERE to start the March Blog Hop ..... you'll find awesome inspiration for our SENSATIONAL SEASON stamp of the month for March

For more information on how you can purchase this set - please
Click on the Shop With Me pic --->

VALENTINE BLOG HOP

2011-02-02T18:59:00.000-08:00

I find blog hops a great way to get awesome ideas and inspiration. This Valentines BH is a kick off to days and days worth of new ideas and sneek peeks to techniques that will get you scrappin, stamping and hopping with excitement....

ARE YOU READY FOR THIS?

2011-02-01T00:01:00.000-08:00

FEBRUARY 1st IS HERE!

Close To My Hearts NEWEST and LOVELIEST offering yet! ( I say that with each new issue...teehee) Our brand new Spring/Summer 2011 Idea book is LIVE TODAY! Click on the image to start your journey through the fabulous new paper packages - all EIGHT of them, new co-ordinating stamp sets and new themes, creative artwork and so much more......

If you don't have your 'hard' copy yet - email me and I'll get one to you asap! This is the beginning of a brand new love affair - just in time for Valentines day! Be sure to stay tuned for my workshop schedule and newsletter :)

FEBRUARY Stamp of the Month BLOG HOP

2011-01-31T22:40:00.000-08:00

OMGosh if you want to see some of the most amazing artwork featuring the February SOTM "Friendship" click HERE now.

Only Five going to be made....

2011-01-27T23:03:00.000-08:00

This is a sneek peek of my February HAS card. 7 more layers needed and I managed to pull this one off successfully....lol. I will put up the whole card in a few days with the 'requirement list', but wanted to give you a sneek peek at how I 'married' the January SOTM - Find Your Style, to the February SOTM.

teaser.....

2011-01-24T21:32:00.000-08:00

SMOOCHIN'

This cute little card is fresh, fun and inspired by Paper Crafts February issue. Cuttlebug dots, stamps, and sparkles add up to make this 'gift card holder card' a treasure.
I'll be teaching this card at my February 7th. Lucky In Love card class.
Call me to reserve your spot!

Lucky in Love

2011-01-20T05:45:00.000-08:00

Sneak peek at one of the cards we'll be creating at my LUCKY in LOVE workshop in February. This was a lot of fun to work on and gives the reciever something special to play as well with a 'scratch ticket of love' from the giver. I have more up my sleeve for a great February offering - stay tuned.

All supplies Close To My Heart except scratch ticket.

don't let LIFE slip past you

2011-01-15T06:42:00.001-08:00

T-E-X-T Me

2011-01-11T17:35:00.000-08:00

A simple and fun bookmark that I taught at a class for 10 - 11 year old girls this past fall. They loved the coloring and stamping the multi-colored circles for the background.

Be sure to check out the HUMBLE ARTISTS TAB at the top of the page - new artwork added 1/11/11

New Year - New Fun

2011-01-09T20:49:00.000-08:00

Today I want to post a couple of cards I did before the holidays. Although they aren't Christmas cards (I gave all of those away before taking photos of them - gee) I had such good fun making them. The blue one was for the Humble Artist Swap Group - a group of Consultants who swap on a bi-monthly basis. The work these ladies do is fabulous and this was my first offering.

I worked on a few new things for upcoming classes tonight which I will share in the coming week... really! Yes Really I will.... :)

JaNuaRy has WiNGS.....

2011-01-09T17:34:00.000-08:00

This January Close To My Heart has outdone itself with yet another exciting and rich offering of premium and exclusive products. Check this out........

When you purchase the new Wings Workshops on the Go™ kit (G1016) for only $33.50 CAN, it opens the door for you to participate in three exciting promotions, and attend a free workshop to put your kit together!

Get the January Stamp of the Month set, Find Your Style, at a discount or free.

You can also mix and match new products from the Inspirations brochure with products from the Autumn/Winter 2010 Idea Book, and we will automatically calculate the greatest savings between the standard program and this promotion for you to get the best deal possible!

Celebrate National Papercrafting Month in January with a My Creations® banner project. Simply purchase a My Creations® Banner (Z1378) and you will be able to make the project with the remaining supplies from the Wings Workshops on the Go™ kit and the E-size Bohemian Alphabet stamp set. The how-to instructions are included with the Wings Workshop kit exclusively through the month of January.

For full details check my website here --->

INSPIRATIONS for the NEW YEAR

2011-01-03T15:39:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year! January brings all kinds of exciting things for Close to My Heart - The New January Inspirations book AND the January Stamp of the Month! Be sure to check them out!

Each month several Close To My Heart consultants join in a Stamp of the Month Blog Hop that features the special stamp that is only available that month. Using the links provided, you hop from blog to blog viewing ideas using that stamp set. While I did NOT join in this month's blog hop I hope you will take the time to view all the wonderful creations made by these talented consultants.

You can start hoppin' HERE

2010-12-31T21:18:00.000-08:00

RESOLUTION #1 - Papercraft More

RESOLUTION #2 - Post it here when I do!
As we head into a New Year I wish all those that visit me here a Happy Happy time ahead.

May you enjoy good health, joy and peace - and some papercrafting fun too!

Muscle Man Birthday

2010-10-16T20:26:00.000-07:00

Today was my beloved hubby's birthday - he's getting closer to the BIG ONE - well not the BIG BIG one but you know...lol. I had this brainchild about what to do for a card. I absolutely LOVE how this turned out.

Patterned paper: Basic Grey
All other supplies/materials are Close To My Heart

Image: clipart found online (I love google)

MINI 3RING Binder Class

2010-10-16T20:05:00.000-07:00

I'm teaching this in November as a gift idea for Christmas. Courtesy goes out to Tresa Black for generously posting a tutorial on this. It is very easy to put together and a fun step away from layouts and cards. Contact me or check out my website calendar for further information on class details.

Hoppin' Blogs!

2010-09-26T22:31:00.000-07:00

Check out this fabulous blog hop with a Halloween focus.

Hoppin into Halloween

2010-09-26T22:08:00.000-07:00

This stamp of the month set from Close to My Heart was fun to work with. As soon as I saw it I knew that it would be a blast to do it in a 'girl rocker' style. I taught a class on this bleaching technique and each student opted to use a different color - here is one of the students cards in halloween colors and my original .

Sum, sum summertime

2010-08-27T21:46:00.000-07:00

Ah the good ol' days! I saw this package of preprinted photo paper and knew it would be fun to work with. I was right! A tuck here, paper ribbon there and a few pop dots and poof! Fabulous and Fun!

2010-08-09T10:43:00.000-07:00

Creating 3d projects is a lot of fun. This frame that I found at a $$ store has haunted me for quite some time, begging for just the right stamping to enhance it's pretty colors. Stamping and layering add dimension and texture to this beautiful treasure. With the Stamp o' the month from CTMH as the focal point it has me wishing for the coolness and colors of fall....

2010-08-08T05:00:00.000-07:00

We get inspired by so many things, people, places, color and just about anything (including underwear right? LOL) This particular card was inspired by Jan Moxey - papercrafter extrordinaire and Tresa Black who's bleaching technique caught my interest. The color combo is a favorite of mine and you will probably see a bit more of this especially as the fall comes closer. Stamp used is the AUGUST Stamp of the Month by CTMH

2010-08-07T14:10:00.000-07:00

Ah Pansy Purple and New England Ivy together! BLISS, add some Sunflower (and a Sunflower stamp too...lol - AUGUST STAMP OF THE MONTH, CTMH ) and what do you have? PURE DELIGHT - I so love this color combination. It's a good thing as I've been doing wedding invitations for a friends daughter in this combo. Whenever I go to put away the extras from that project the colors draw me in and I just can't stop myself from creating! I am tickled with my new Cuttlebug Embossing Folder too - the big dots. Can't wait to make a few Disney things with that as well.
Until next time - ENJOY LIFE!

for fun....

2010-08-07T09:46:00.001-07:00

...and then there was the underwear

2010-07-29T09:00:00.000-07:00

one day before convention I was visiting the ladies room and realized that my 'underwear' had the most fabulous color combination in it. I kept thinking to myself 'this would be fabulous in random stamped paper....' - so being the true papercrafter that I am I rushed to my workshop and created a delightful and fun random stamped card using the color combination and as close to the same 'pattern' as possible. If you're paying attention you can get inspiration from obviously anywhere! :)

HAPPY BIRTHDAY FUN

2010-07-28T09:00:00.000-07:00

There is a little bit of everything in this card.... patterned paper that is fun, fresh and funky, a stamp set that is girly, markers to set off the right color combo's and texture in the liquid applique which makes the platter of cupcakes seem to jump right off the card. When applying the liquid applique before heating I sprinkled a liberal amount of prisma glitter while it was still wet. After heating the glitter was set into the liquid applique giving it a touch of sparkle and shine.

MoRe BuTtErFlIes

2010-07-27T09:00:00.000-07:00

This delightful paper pack from Close To my Heart just makes my heart sing when I crack open the package. The colors and patterns are just so much fun to play with for a delicate girly look or something elegant as well. This is a new *A* sized set from our Summer Catalogue - with the butterfly.

Butterflies

2010-07-26T09:00:00.000-07:00

I love butterflies, I love to random stamp and I love purples and green.... so as you can tell this combination of all three is delightfully all things I love. Another of my convention swaps this one was so much fun to make, not to mention quick as the random stamping always goes so quickly.

Brides

2010-07-25T22:18:00.000-07:00

If you've been checking and wondering just where on earth I've disappeared to....well for a while I was sequestered in my basement doing swap cards for my trip to convention in Washington DC. I made 5 sets of 10 and then took a bag of various cards I'd done in the past year. Over the next few days I want to share those cards along with some other news as well....stay tuned - I'm back with a vengence! :) OH and it helps to pay attention to what one's doing when assembling cards. Can you spot the boo boo!

Happiness

2010-05-12T23:26:00.000-07:00

Happy Mom's Day

2010-05-09T07:44:00.000-07:00

HAPPY MOTHERS DAY to all my mom friends and family. My wish for you is that you will be blessed by those around you for the hard work that you do as a Mom. Whether you are starting out your family with small ones, or restarting with your childs small ones, take a moment today to reflect on the powerful task we have been given. May those you love, love you two-fold in return.

2010-05-03T14:46:00.000-07:00

Another great layout using the new STUDIO J online scrapbooking program. These layouts whip up so quickly it's amazing. While honestly I won't ever give up tradional scrapbooking due to a strong addiction to paper (lol) I do enjoy playing on the computer and getting these layouts done is great. I like that I can use the same *kits* as I have IRL (in real life) and it all looks as fabulous as if I glued each element on myself!

2010-05-02T21:58:00.001-07:00

I've had so much fun playing with STUDIO J! Click on the link above to tap into another format to save and share your stories!

Peace

2010-04-27T17:54:00.000-07:00

This gently colored card is a sympathy card for
my husbands aunt who just lost her husband of 60 years. I tried to convey a calmness with this color combination and flowers. The flower heads are on pop dots to give the card some dimension.

On the upside there is the upcoming release of the Close To My Heart Summer Idea Book. As always it is brimming with great artwork ideas and a plethora of great stamps, papers and embellishments that add just the right touch to all your papercrafting endevours. Call me or scoot an email off to get your copy today!

Last but certainly not least is todays release of STUDIO J Online Scrapbooking. Check out all the wonderful details at

pammie.myctmh.com to find out how you can scrapbook, plan pages and try different color combo's and MORE all for free! There is nothing to download, you can store your pages for up to 90 days and best of all you only pay when you print!

Flower Pot - April Stamp of the Month

2010-04-02T23:26:00.000-07:00

I had a bit of fun tonight playing with this fun set. Colors Used: Bamboo, Cocoa, Crystal Blue, Colonial White. Sparkles and Bitty Brads

Spring Garden

2010-03-30T20:23:00.000-07:00

Just a little something cheery to get you into the spring mood!

Heartfelt

2010-03-13T19:31:00.000-08:00

At the beginning of February a friend passed away from pancreatic cancer.

She had been diagnosed in November and had a scant three months with her family and friends. She had come shopping a few weeks prior to her passing (scrapbook addicts never stop shopping...lol) and she mentioned that "when the doctors told me to get my affairs in order, I am pretty sure they didn't mean my scrapbooks" But that is what she did...she scrapbooked. Her family now have some awesome memories of their mom, daughter, sister that they can enjoy for years to come. This card is one that I made for her family. I hope they know how much she impacted the people around her.

12 years - WOW

2010-03-11T22:31:00.000-08:00

People always tell you when your kids are little to enjoy them because they grow up so fast. To be brutally honest when friends and family (and even strangers) would tell me that I thought they were crazy. I couldn't wait until my kids were independent enough to not need me at every breath and turn of the day. MY MY MY but was I wrong!

My "BABY" turned 12 yesterday and what wouldn't I give for him to be small enough to cuddle on my lap. Or to come snuggle in bed with me in the morning, or want me to read him a book (truck and machine books were this childs muse) - I would give almost anything to have those days back now! LOL

When he was little he would make up the most ridiculous words for things, his socks always had *turtles* in them ( the little knots where the seam in the toe was - that one took me YEARS to figure out....lol) and he sucked his thumb, he was my hugger (still is) and gives the most delicious hugs. He is my hearts desire! He is my boo boo bear, my little bear, ..... he is the love of my life - and now he is 12! HAPPY BIRTHDAY SON - you make my life shine in ways I never thought possible and you will never truly know! Don't grow up too fast lovey!

Escape - it's a "Piece of Cake"

2010-02-09T19:53:00.000-08:00

Hello all - or those who check in to see if miracle of all miracles I have actually updated my blog! LOL

Today I needed an escape - time to get away with my thoughts. So I headed to the place I love to be - my workshop! As I started fiddling around with my stamps I realized (yet again...lol) that everything doesn't have to be artsy fartsy, covered in paper galore and accessorized up the wazoooo. These cards are simple - simply put. Pretty much a reflection of me trying to empty my head of all those unnecessary things and get back to basics. Sessions such as these are a sure sign I am feeling pressure. This is when I take the opportunity to step back and try to regain some semblance of 'normal' in my life.

With that said (and I do feel better for it...lol) these are my offerings today using the February CTMH SOTM "Piece of Cake" and the Family Ties sets for a special 'welcome' card for a friend who just had a baby boy last month.

Hearts Abound

2010-01-17T21:19:00.000-08:00

It seems I start most of my posts lately with 'I'm sorry I've been MIA' - I think most of you can attest how busy life can be. So with that different but the same intro I will leave you with my most recent craft endevour. ;)

Yes I got sucked into the split mountain folded card vortex. I kind of like how this turned out - my guest won't like all the cutting though...lol

HO HO HO

2009-12-19T17:55:00.000-08:00

Hello fellow friends and papercrafters. It's certainly been a while since I have posted anything. I have a few minutes to play so thought I would entertain (hopefully) you with my Christmas cards. I strayed from CTMH paper a bit and used some paper I found at lss, that made my heart sing. I hope that holiday preparations find you happy, healthy and enjoying your family and friends (and maybe a bit of papercrafting as well)

Wishing you all a HAPPY HOLIDAY!

RETIREMENT LIST 2009-2010

2009-11-17T23:30:00.000-08:00

Check out the RETIREMENT LIST for 2009-2010 HERE!