Free scrapbooking crops, free comic books, and more!

Are you busy tomorrow? You know it's Nat'l Scrapbooking Day (NSD), right? It's also Free Comic Book Day (FCBD), or, as my crazy brother likes to call it, Fat Chance Belly Dance (FCBD). I plan on heading to the comic book store, but first I'll be joining my friends at Big Picture Classes for a live and totally FREE creative crop.

Registering for the crop is fast and free. Click here for more info. 

I sure would love it if you could join me for the fun. I chat and share my project--TEN ideas for using baker's twine on a scrapbook page--at 1:15 PM MST, but the party lasts all day with a bunch of incredibly talented ladies lined up to teach and celebrate NSD.

Here's a sneak peek my Ten Twine Techniques layout. Love me some baker's twine!

Plus, as is true with any good party, there will be giveaways, including this awesome setup from Doodlebug. You know you want to win this. :)

As if all of this isn't enough, there are many good things happening on the Creating Keepsakes websites, including another all-day party and more giveaways. Check out our blog for more details. 

I sure hope we can scrap and play together tomorrow. If our paths don't happen to cross, I hope you're doing something else to celebrate this awesome hobby. And maybe I'll see you at the comic book store. 

Cheers!

Another look inside and chance to win!

As you may or may not know, I once worked for Simple Scrapbooks magazine as a senior editor. I loved my time with that team and that magazine. Sadly, the magazine is no more, but I’m happy to report that its sister magazine (and my current employer), Creating Keepsakes magazine, has just released a Simple Scrapbooks special issue.

Some of the content in the issue is different than the former magazine of the same name, but the idea of creating simple scrapbook pages is absolutely evident. 

Here are a few of the layouts I created for this issue:

I made this page for “Scraplift It,” an article that encourages readers to find different elements from an existing layout and use those to inspire their own pages. 

As seen in Creating Keepsakes' special issue, Simple Scrapbooks. Copyright Creative Crafts Group. Posted with prior permission from the publisher.

One of the main ideas behind this issue is to show readers how they can get more from their current stash of scrapbooking supplies, so I was asked to alter pre-made scrapbooking products in five ways. Here’s what I came up with: 

As seen in Creating Keepsakes' special issue, Simple Scrapbooks. Copyright Creative Crafts Group. Posted with prior permission from the publisher.

I’m not going to lie—creating this layout was a challenge. I was allowed only two supplies beyond the scrapbooking basics (pen, adhesive, cardstock, and photos). That’s right, TWO! My choices: cupcake liners and washi tape. 

As seen in Creating Keepsakes' special issue, Simple Scrapbooks. Copyright Creative Crafts Group. Posted with prior permission from the publisher.

Admittedly, this isn’t my favorite layout, but I’m glad I was able to meet the challenge and show that you really can come up with a lot, using only a little.  

Hop On!
There is SO much more to be found in this issue. See some of what it has in store by participating in our happy little blog hop. Hop on over to the following sites and see what Simple Scrapbooks ideas they have to share:

Erika Hayes
The Scrap Review
Laura Vegas

But wait. Before you hop along your way. I thought you might enjoy a virtual look at some of what you'll find inside this issue.

Did Somebody Order a Chicken Dinner?
And what party would be complete without a party favor? For a chance to win this cool special issue, simply leave me a comment on this post between now and Friday, April 27, and I’ll select a winner at random. Sa-weet!

Thanks for hopping by! 

Cheers!

A look inside and a chance to win!

It’s no secret that I love creating with cupcake liners. If you follow my creative endeavors at all, you know that I use these treat cups in all sorts of ways, including the way shown here—I put them on a layout. I love the way the liners fill the space and add some movement to this page.

As seen in the May/June 2012 issue of Creating Keepsakes magazine. Copyright Creative Crafts Group. Posted with prior permission from the publisher.

Creating this look is simple. All you have to do is:

1. Spray white cupcake liners with spray ink (or buy ones that are already colored). Note: I used extra large treat cups for this particular project.

2. Remove the centers from the liners, and cut two of the liners down to get three varying sizes.

3. Adhere the liners to you layout by hand stitching around the centers using baker’s twine. Note: I first backed the liners with patterned paper so that it would pop through the centers of the cut liners. 

This page was created for the “Kitchen-Inspired Scrapbooking” article, found in the brand spankin’ new May/June 2012 issue of Creating Keepsakes magazine. Visit creatingkeepsakes.com to see more of what this issue has to offer, including free downloads, videos, and other delights!

Win

Don’t have the May/June issue? No worries. I’m giving away a copy. Simply leave me a comment on this post between now and Friday, April 20 for a chance to win. Good luck!

 

I hope this layout has inspired your creativity. For additional looks inside the magazine, please join us (CK) in today’s blog hop. You’ll find more chances to win a magazine, and you’ll see lots more layout ideas that you can pin, scraplift… you name it! 

Hop On!

Next on the list:

The lovely Erika Hayes
My friends over at The Scrap Review
The talented Laura Vegas

Cheers!

P.S. If you’re in Utah, check out Studio 5 today at 11:00 AM. I’ll be announcing the winner of our big The Amazing Space contest and showing fresh organization ideas with a kitchen twist. Hope you can tune in.

Respect for Regret?

Regret. It should be a four-letter word. Here it is, the wee hours of the morning, and my mind has wandered to regrets. 

I would love to say I’ve lived a regret-free life, but this just isn’t the case. Like so many, I have things I’d change if I could do them over again. Those things include:

I regret...

...working too much. I've allowed my life to be out of balance for years--this is time I won’t get back.

...going years without cleaning/organizing my house on a regular basis. (Weekly? Daily?) No wonder I’m currently in the cluttered state I’m in.

...spending the majority of my life thinking I was F-A-T when I actually had a cute little figure for many years that went unappreciated. 

...not smooching Brent Lingwall that night in the hammock. We were in jr high. I was young and shy, but I still should have planted one on him and let him know how I felt about him at that age. Did he ever know?

...not blogging more. I have so many projects and ideas to share, but I never find the time/energy to share them. Goes back to that work/life balance thing, I suppose. 

...losing track of Brandi Skinner. She was one of my dearest friends growing up. We ended up on different paths in life and I don’t know what happened to her after high school. I miss her and hope she’s well. 

...following all of the rules. Yes, I was and still am an avid rule follower. There are times when this is good, but there are also times when it’s nice to let lose a little. 

...the years I spent allowing doctors to tell me I was fine when I knew I wasn’t. Oh, how the quality of my life could have improved if I had only demanded more answers. 

...checking out for much of my twenties. The later half of this decade proved extra difficult, and I checked out a bit in order to cope. What did I miss out on in that time?

...not sending out birthday cards. So many special days come and go and I don’t get cards made and sent. A text message is NOT equivalent to a card. 

...dating the same boy for almost my entire high school life. Don’t get me wrong; he was a wonderful boy and I’m glad we dated, but no high schooler should limit their full three-year experience in this way. It wasn’t the best thing for either one of us. 

...not spending enough time with my family. Sure, I see them on special occasions, but I want to see them on the not-so-special ones as well. More game nights. More trips for ice cream. That sort of thing. 

...thinking I could tan as a kid. I spent far too many hours laying out, only to burn my whiter-than-white skin to a crisp. Sun spots and wrinkles are starting to appear now. I hope they’re the worst of the damage that will come from this stupidity.

...worrying too much. I spend a great deal of time worrying about things beyond my control. I can't help it and I know it does me no good, but I don't know how to turn it off.  

...being awake and writing this post at 4:00 AM when I should be keeping an appointment with the sandman. I KNOW I’ll regret this in a few hours when I’m struggling to keep my eyes open at work. 

I could go on, but you get the idea. I have regrets. 

What’s my point? Well, I wonder if we shouldn’t learn to respect our regrets. Appreciate what they have to offer us by way of living a better life going forward. I’m 31. If I learn from this list, perhaps my list at 61 will only grow by half. I’m realistic enough to know I’ll never live an entirely regret-free life, but I can minimize the list by paying attention to what’s already on it and working to avoid the same pitfalls in the future.

I’ll conclude this odd rambling session with what led me to this thought process to begin with. I was lying in the dark, a bit uncomfortable and unable to sleep, with one hand wrapped around Cory’s and the other wrapped around my protruding belly. In that quiet moment, I was blissfully happy. The two loves of my life in my hands. That got me to thinking about the things that got me to this point. Naturally, the regrets and poor decisions, both big and small, were part of that journey to this moment. 

I suppose this only further supports my thinking that regrets aren’t all bad. If they helped get me to this quiet, peaceful point of existence, then I’ll take every last one of them. 

Cheers!

Quick Easter Basket Ideas

Need a quick Easter idea. I have two Target finds I just couldn't resist sharing.

1. Target has washi tape (Japanese masking tape)!

And it's only $4 for a set of four. That's $1 per roll! Fantastic. You can find it in the stationery section of the store.
A great big thanks goes out to my CKC students for sharing this tidbit with my while in Louisville last weekend.

2. Target has SMASH books and they're on sale this week!

After teaching rooms full of people all about SMASH Books by K&Company in our CKC No Rules Scrapbooking class (so fun!), I couldn't resist getting my own. This one was only $12, and I've already smashed a few tidbits inside.

I think either of these happy, creative items would make excellent Easter gifts. Or, simply treat yourself to a little something fun. :)

Cheers!

The Homestretch, AKA the Third Trimester

Cory and I went to the doc early this AM for an ultrasound. Being high risk, we were there to check on the babe's growth. Great news! She's right on track at a whoppin' 2 lbs. 12 oz.

I know these pics will mean next to nothing to you--sonograms aren't much to look at--but we LOVE them, so I just had to share.

Look at this adorable little foot. Actually, this is a shot of both of her feet. They're crossed and looking cute!

Here's a shot of her pretty face. Sure, it looks a little Skeletor-ish with her bones showing, but it's perfection to me. :)

And, while this shot isn't much to see, it's absolutely my favorite. You see, it's her healthy heartbeat. That's what those lines are across the bottom. 145 beats per minute, which is just where she should be. There's nothing more calming in the world than hearing that sound. In fact, I always catch myself holding my breath at these appointments until that music fills my ears.

This is week 28, which means I'm officially in the third trimester. I can't believe we've come this far. I still have SO much to do. Here's just a glimpse at what's left on our to-do list:

* Sign up for birthing classes--still deciding between the hypnobirthing and traditional classes
* Everything for the nursery--well, we have a crib, but that's it. I don't even know what colors I'm doing. Yipe!
* Register
* Wash and hang all of the sweet little outfits I have.
* Replace all of our puppy-stained carpet with a more sanitary option.

Yowza! I hope our little squirt stays put for the full three months remaining. There's much to do before she gets here. In the meantime, I sure enjoy seeing her on the ultrasound screen. What a wild and wonderful experience that is!

Cheers!

Family Photo Book

Click here to view this photo book larger

I created this book to contain some of my family's memories of time spent in Montrose, CO--a special place for us. We've had many good times in that town. :)

It's Suddenly Sleepy Saturday

Catching a quick catnap in my car. Something I do often. The front seat of a Mustang can make quite comfy sleeping quarters. 

What do you get when you combine narcolepsy + sleep apnea + low iron + pregnancy = 1 tired gal. 

I’m definitely feeling the fatigue these days, but I know you don’t need all or any of the aforementioned ailments to feel the exhaustion life can bring. Just functioning day to day, accomplishing the many things that are required of us as responsible adults, can lead to that oh-so-sleepy feeling. So, whether you have a sleep disorder or not, I think you’ll be interested in this tidbit:

Today is Suddenly Sleep Saturday

In recognition of those clocks being set ahead tomorrow morning--yup, Daylight Savings Time is here--the Narcolepsy Network established this day as a day to raise awareness of the extreme fatigue narcolepsy can cause. 

I encourage you to check out the symptoms of narcolepsy here. I went 12 years without a diagnosis and finally, due in part to my own self education, found the answers I had so desperately been seeking for 12+ years. That’s a lot of years and quality of life lost that I can’t get back. Don’t let the same happen to you. Become informed and spread the word. It could make a huge difference in your life or the life of another.

Happy Suddenly Sleepy Saturday. Here’s hoping you can sneak an extra nap in this weekend!

So many nursery options, so little time

Help. I’m in need of a little color coaching. I’m having the hardest time selecting a color combo for our nursery. There are so many pretty options. Here are a few that I’m considering:


Note: All color palette images courtesy of Design Seeds and Photo Card Boutique.

Turquoise, Gray & Yellow (with the possibility of a splash of Taupe) 

This has topped my list for a while, but I can’t help but wonder if I’d be missing out by not using any pink. I am, after all, very much a pink lady.

Here's a pretty example I found on Pinterest. Image courtesy of Oleana Boutique.

Pink & Gray

Another color combo I’m awfully fond of, but I do worry that it’s somewhat limiting. 

Here's a pretty example I found on Pinterest, courtesy of Spearmint Baby.

Pink, Gray, & Taupe

This one is slightly different than the one above. The pink has more red in it, and it has some taupe thrown in. 

This pretty example is more of a soft pink and taupe, but I like it. (Image courtesy of Benjamin Moore.)

Orange, Pinks, Yellow, & Gray

This one is kind of a combo of the above with a little orange thrown in. 

Here's a happy example of a similar color scheme, a la Project Nursery.

Orange, Tangerine, Taupe, & Pinks

This option seems warn and happy, but I think it could be hard to find elements in all of these colors. 

Orange, Pinks, Turquoise, & Taupe

This one is vibrant. Too vibrant? Perhaps. 

Turquoises, Brown, Pinks, & Yellow

A softer palette. Not sure if I love it, but there's something inviting about these colors. 

Cream, Pinks, & Brown

This one feels a bit overdone, but there is something soothing about this combo. 

Another beautiful Project Nursery example.

Do you see why I'm having such a difficult time? There are so many beautiful combos out there. Sheesh! Any thoughts on the subject? Here are a few facts to consider:

* The floor will be a dark-ish wood
* The furniture will be white (or antique white)
* The walls are currently taupe, but that can change. However, I'd rather not paint if it works out.
* We hope to add wainscoting to the walls

Bedding Question
Also, do you know where I can buy baby bedding in colors beyond pink/brown and pink/green?It seems like these are the only ones I see when I'm out and about. I was surprised there hasn't been more to choose from. Any shopping suggestions?

Any color coaching you can offer will be greatly appreciated. I can't guarantee I'll go with any of these, but this is a start, I suppose. Thanks, in advance, for your help.

Cheers!

Baby Fashion Show

Why wait for Fashion Week or the next season of Project Runway for your fashion-show fix? I’ve got your front-row seat to the cutest show in town. Well, I’m admittedly a bit bias, but I think you’ll enjoy these little numbers. They're a few of the baby things I’ve purchased since finding out I’m having a girl.  

Now, I know it may seem odd to photograph clothes, but I’m a scrapbooker, and that’s what we do. We photograph life’s details so that we can transform them into documented memories. Or at least into happy blog posts. 

With that, dim the lights. This cat walk is about to get ultra cute! 

Outfit #1: The Bear Hat

Well, this isn't exactly an "outfit," but it is one of my favorites. You see, I call Cory "Bear," and this little girl is our baby bear, so a baby bear hat is perfection. What is it about ears on hats that makes 'em so cute? Plus, the fuzz around the mouth is so soft. 

Outfit Info

Size: 18-36 mo.

Purchased at: Naartjie

Outfit #2: Corduroy Overalls 

This outfit is tied for "favorite." I wish the photo did it justice. That you could reach out and touch it. It's so soft. And it reminds me of an outfit my mom bought for me when I was young, so there's that sentimental attachment that means so much. 

Outfit Info

Size: 6-12 mo.

Purchased at: Janie and Jack

Outfit #3: Tiny Summer Suit

This sweet summer ensemble is extra special because it came from a friend. She went out and purchased it (and several other darling things) for me the day she heard I was having a girl. Isn't that nice? It's going to be just right come fireworks time!

Outfit Info

Size: 0-3 Months

Purchased at: Gymboree

Outfit #4: Birdie Jumper

I love a good bargain, and this was part of a fun Tuesday's Treasure promotion that the store has, where a couple of surprise full-price items get marked down 40% every Tuesday, for that day only. Yeah, I pretty much have a standing appointment with that shop every Tues. for the next few years. :)

Outfit Info

Size: 3-6 mo.

Purchased at: Naartjie

Outfit #5: Patchwork Pink Ensemble

This was the second Tuesday's Treasure purchase I made. I adore how the shirt is made up of a patchwork of different prints. And the ruffles on the pants are so sweet!

Outfit Info

Size: 3-6 mo.

Purchased at: Naartjie

Outfit #6: Tea Time Onesie

I found this on my first trip to Baby Gap, and what a find! The little tea cup is appliquéd fabric, and the design has a soft watercolor look to it. 

Outfit Info

Size: 12-18 mo.

Purchased at: Baby Gap

Outfit #7: Bunny Bidnaz

This one had me at the striped pants and tulle trim. Then I saw the matching shoes with the button eyes and it was all over. 

Outfit Info

Size: 3-6 mo.

Purchased at: Naartjie

Outfit #8: Sweater Suit

You may recognize this darling ensemble from an earlier post. As that post describes, it holds a very special place in my heart, and I can't wait to take a picture of my babe in it someday so that I can scrapbook that story. 

Outfit Info

Size: 3-6 mo.

Purchased at: Emporium at Thanksgiving Point

If you think these are cute now, just wait until you see how they look with a baby in them. I can’t wait. When those days finally come, I’ll be sure to take some photographic evidence to share. ;) In the meantime, thanks for humoring me with this post. I know it’s a bit silly to post about baby clothes, but these sweet ensemebles make me smile, and I hope at least one of them managed to do the same for you. 

Cheers!

My CHA Adventure: Projects

I'm a lucky gal. Twice a year, I have the opportunity to attend the Craft & Hobby Association (CHA) tradeshow. What an inspiring place! It's where companies introduce their new lines, complete with awesome booths and incredible projects. I always come home with so many ideas!

I thought I'd share a few of my favorite CHA project-finds with you. I hope you find them as inspiring as I do.

Isn't this cool? Kelly Purkey made a map of the places she's traveled and included pictures. It was on display in the Studio Calico booth. If you look closely at St. Louis, you'll see me. That was a good trip!

This is a Clip It Up storage system that has been painted pink. Why didn't I ever think to paint mine pink? Love that idea! Thanks, Nikki Sivils booth, for the clever idea!

I'm always attracted to colorful layouts, and this one found in the Paper Smooches booth simply shines! 

So sweet! I can definitely see myself adding this idea to my future nursery. Thanks, Silhouette, for the idea!

Yes, those are candy Dots! How cute! Thanks for the party idea, Ellison. 

Leave it to the Doodlebug to inspire me with color. Look at that sweet card and layout. Both so cheery!

I admit, I have an Edward layout in my own album, so I was naturally drawn to this page in the SEI booth. Besides the hella handsome fella, I love the circles along the side. 

Love this, Maya Road! Thanks for the words of inspiration! 

These are yarn-bombed chairs. So cool! 

I'm very into yarn art right now, and I loved seeing all of the yarn displays at this show. 

This wreath, on display in the Jillibean Soup booth, is made from jar lids. What a clever creative approach!

More yarn fun! This yarn-wrapped tree was standing tall in the Heidi Grace booth. I want to wrap a tree in a neutral color (white or gray) and switch out the ornaments for the various seasons. Fun!

I could go on and on but I guess I'll stop here. Thanks, CHA, for another inspiring show!

Cheers!